CSE begins month in red, down 0.1%

Wednesday, 2 September 2026 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market yesterday began the new month by retreating into red over tensions in the Middle East.

After failing to sustain an early-session rally, the ASPI ended down 0.1% or 20.38 points at 21,318.31 and the S&P SL20 was down 0.39% or 23.23 points at 5,986.45.

Market turnover was over Rs. 2.3 billion on over 97.4 million shares traded.

First Capital Research said the market experienced a volatile session amidst average activity levels, with the market closing in negative territory following a notable emergence of selling pressure during the latter part of the session. Market sentiment weakened towards the second half, with the rise in global oil prices contributing to the cautious tone.

The top negative contributors to the index were JKH, BREW, DFCC, DIAL and MELS. Retail investors were the main drivers of activity, with heightened selling sentiment evident, while HNW participation remained around average levels.

Activity in the capital goods sector dominated turnover, contributing 31% of the total, followed by the food, beverage and tobacco, and diversified financials sectors, which together accounted for 33%. Foreign investors were net sellers on a net outflow of Rs. 612.5 million.

NDB Securities said hhigh net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Watawala Plantations, and Sampath Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Dialog Axiata, Commercial Credit and Finance and Ceylon Cold Stores whilst retail interest was noted in HVA Foods, Renuka Agri Foods and Exterminators.

The capital goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover due to John Keells Holdings whilst the sector index lost 0.88%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased 40 cents to close at Rs. 19.50.

The food, beverage and tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover due to Ceylon Cold Stores whilst the sector index increased by 1.26%. Ceylon Cold Stores moved up Rs. 1.50 to Rs. 121.75.

Dialog Axiata, Commercial Credit and Finance and Asia Siyaka Commodities were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. Dialog Axiata lost 40 cents to Rs. 46, Commercial Credit and Finance was down Rs. 1.75 at Rs. 107.25 and Asia Siyaka Commodities was up Rs. 1.30 to end at Rs. 15.20.