The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) began the new week on a positive note yesterday, rebounding from Friday’s negative close.
The benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI) rose by 0.8%, while the S&P SL20 advanced by 0.5%. Turnover amounted to Rs. 6 billion, with 196.5 million shares traded. Key contributors to turnover included John Keells Holdings (Rs. 878.3 million), Lanka IOC (Rs. 833.5 million), Hatton National Bank (Rs. 259.3 million), Alumex (Rs. 204 million), and Browns Investments (Rs. 202.4 million).
First Capital noted a day of positive sentiment and relatively low market activity, a shift from the volatility seen last week. Investor interest primarily focused on blue-chip stocks such as MELS, LIOC, BUKI, HNB, and CARS. However, the absence of crossings indicated reduced engagement from both retail and high-net-worth investors.
Sector-wise, Capital Goods led turnover with a 24% contribution, followed by Banking and Energy, which jointly accounted for 32%. A net foreign outflow of Rs. 492.4 million was recorded during the day.
According to NDB Securities, high-net-worth and institutional investors were active in John Keells Holdings, Seylan Bank nonvoting, and Melstacorp. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka IOC, Hatton National Bank, and Alumex, while retail investors focused on Hela Apparel Holdings, SMB Leasing, and Softlogic Capital.
Among top turnover contributors, Lanka IOC’s share price rose by Rs. 19.25 to Rs. 142.25, Alumex gained Rs. 1.10 to close at Rs. 15.90, and Browns Investments declined slightly by Rs. 0.10 to Rs. 8.50.
The Capital Goods sector was the largest turnover contributor, driven by John Keells Holdings, though its share price dropped by Rs. 0.40 to Rs. 23.10. The Banking sector followed, with Hatton National Bank’s share price increasing by Rs. 4 to Rs. 350.25.