The Colombo stock market witnessed a sharp rise, with the ASPI gaining 1.67% (256 points) and the S&P SL20 climbing over 2%, supported by strong investor interest.
Turnover reached Rs. 3.67 billion, involving 197 million shares, with Sierra Cables accounting for Rs. 1.8 billion in transfers. Banking stocks led the gains, with Commercial Bank, HNB, John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank, and DFCC making positive contributions.
The Capital Goods sector dominated turnover (58%), followed by Diversified Financials and Banking (25%). Despite foreign investors turning net sellers with a Rs. 35.2 million outflow, high-net-worth and institutional investors were active in Citizens Development Business Finance, HNB, and John Keells Holdings.
Retail activity remained subdued, though interest was seen in Hela Apparel Holdings, Waskaduwa Beach Resort, and Marawila Resorts. Key stock price movements included John Keells Holdings (+40 cents to Rs. 20.50), Ceylon Cold Stores (+Rs. 1.10 to Rs. 78), and HNB (+Rs. 5.75 to Rs. 309.50).