The Colombo stock market soared to an all-time high yesterday, fueled by robust turnover and positive sentiment towards President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s administration.
The All Share Price Index (ASPI) climbed over 170 points to close at 13,511.73, surpassing the previous record set on 19 January 2022. Daily turnover reached an impressive Rs. 5.2 billion.
According to NDB Securities, significant activity was observed among high net worth and institutional investors, particularly in Ambeon Capital, Commercial Bank, and Alumex. Mixed investor interest was evident in Sampath Bank, John Keells Holdings, and Lanka Ashok Leyland, while retail investors focused on SMB Leasing, Lanka Credit and Business Finance, and LOLC Finance.
Foreign investors maintained a low presence, ending the day as net sellers.
Sector Performance
The Banking sector led the day’s turnover, driven by Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank, with the sector index gaining 2.07%. Commercial Bank’s share price increased by Rs. 3.50 to close at Rs. 127, while Sampath Bank’s share price rose by Rs. 2.20 to end at Rs. 99.80.
The Capital Goods sector ranked as the second-highest contributor to turnover, primarily due to activity in John Keells Holdings, which saw its share price rise by Rs. 0.70 to close at Rs. 20.60.
Ambeon Capital and Alumex were also among the top turnover contributors. Ambeon Capital’s share price gained Rs. 0.60 to close at Rs. 18.90, and Alumex’s share price appreciated by Rs. 0.90, closing at Rs. 13.40.