The Colombo Stock Exchange closed higher on Tuesday, as indicated by data on its site.
The broader All Share Index rose by 0.37 percent, or 42.09 points, closing at 11,293, while the more liquid S&P SL20 Index increased by 0.39 percent, or 12.44 points, ending at 3,226.
Turnover for the day was 582 million rupees, with John Keells Holdings leading as the top turnover generator at 160 million rupees.
“Turnover was subdued,” Softlogic Stockbrokers commented. “Although the market was back in the green, sentiment remained conservative, with limited activity.”
The banking sector mostly closed in green, with Sampath Bank Plc at 74.00, DFCC Bank Plc up to 69.20, and Commercial Bank of Ceylon Plc flat at 89.40.
Several banks attracted foreign buying interest, although a net foreign outflow of 20 million rupees was recorded.
“High net-worth individuals and institutions remained sidelined,” Softlogic Stockbrokers noted.
Top contributors to the ASPI included Richard Pieris and Company Plc (up to 19.50), Hatton National Bank Plc (up to 183.00), and John Keells Holdings Plc (up to 179.50).
Top turnover generators comprised JKH, Vallibel Finance Plc (down to 39.70), Nations Trust Bank Plc (flat at 120.00), Commercial Bank, and Central Finance Plc (flat at 105.25).
Hayleys Fabric reported interim results with a profit of 789 million rupees, showing a quarter-on-quarter increase, though the share closed down at 46.60.
Interim results of CIC Holdings Plc displayed growth across all segments, attributed to the government’s preference for the agriculture sector. The share closed flat at 67.00.
“Both companies saw improvements in finance costs and debt due to lower interest rates,” Softlogic Stockbrokers added.