Spot market sees minor currency dip, while stock market opens on a positive note
Sri Lanka’s rupee opened slightly weaker in the spot market on Monday, trading at 298.90/299.10 against the US dollar, compared to Friday’s close of 298.85/95, according to market dealers. The modest depreciation reflects cautious sentiment amid ongoing monetary dynamics.
Government bond yields remained broadly steady with minor fluctuations across maturities. The yield on the 15.10.2028 bond rose to 9.90/10.00 percent, up from the previous 9.84/92 percent. The 15.06.2029 bond was quoted at 10.10/20 percent, while the 15.12.2029 bond was trading at 10.22/28 percent, holding close to its last quote of 10.20/28 percent.
In contrast, the yield on the 15.03.2031 bond edged slightly lower to 10.60/70 percent, from a previous 10.62/72 percent, indicating mild demand for longer-term debt. The 01.11.2033 bond remained stable, quoted at 10.85/95 percent.
Meanwhile, the Central Bank was conducting a Treasury bill auction valued at Rs. 173 billion, with results expected to influence near-term liquidity and interest rates.
On a more upbeat note, equity markets opened higher. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) gained 0.86 percent, signaling investor confidence at the start of the trading week.