CSE loses steam after Monday rally

Wednesday, 17 June 2026 07:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market ended flat yesterday, failing to sustain a rally in early trading that extended the sharp rebound of the previous day.

With 117 counters gaining against 113 that ended in red, the ASPI ended down 0.02% or 3.36 points at 22,377.29 after gaining over 180 points and peaking at 22,563.09 in early trading. The active S&P SL20 ended up 0.03% or 1.79 points at 6,221.32.

Market turnover was over Rs. 3.85 billion on nearly 152.6 million shares traded. Foreign investors were net buyers on a net inflow of Rs. 427.1 million.

The top contributors to the ASPI were JKH, HAYL, DOCK, BREW and BIL while CARG, CINS, SAMP, NDB and CFIN weighed down the index.

First Capital Research said the bourse recorded an early advance, supported by easing geopolitical tensions and declining oil prices, thereby extending the positive momentum from the previous session.

However, during the latter part of the session, market indices came under pressure as investors engaged in profit-booking, resulting in a flat close to the session.

Investor participation from both HNW and retail investors remained at average level throughout the session.

The materials sector led the daily turnover with a share of 40%, followed by the capital goods and banking sectors, which collectively contributed 20%.