CSE begins new week on positive note

Tuesday, 29 July 2025 04:29 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market yesterday began a fresh week on a positive note, with improved investor activity.

The benchmark ASPI gained by 0.26% and the active S&P SL20 by 0.34%. Turnover was Rs. 6.16 billion involving 162.33 million shares.

Foreign investors remained net buyers with a net inflow of Rs. 30.2 million.

First Capital said the Bourse opened the week on a strong footing, continuing the positive momentum from the previous sessions as investor confidence was reflected through active participation.

The ASPI advanced by 50 points to close at 19,518. The index climbed steadily at the open, peaking by late morning, before moderate selling pressure led to a slight pullback. Despite this, the market ended in positive territory, aided by positive contributions from RCL, MELS, HHL, LFIN and CTHR.

HNW investor participation remained strong amidst multiple crossings, closely followed by robust retail activity. Daily turnover reached Rs. 6.2 billion, marking a 14% decline compared to the monthly average of Rs. 7.1 billion.

The Capital Goods sector led in terms of turnover, accounting for 30%, followed by the Banking, and Diversified Financial sectors, which collectively accounted for 33%.

NDB Securities said the high net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hatton National Bank, Lanka IOC and Royal Ceramics. Mixed interest was observed in LB Finance, John Keells Holdings and ACL Cables, whilst retail interest was noted in Sathosa Motors and Udapussellawa Plantations.

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics and John Keells Holdings), whilst the sector index gained 0.58%. The share price of Royal Ceramics increased by Rs. 4 to close at Rs. 44. The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs. 25.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank non-voting), whilst the sector index edged down by 0.02%. The share price of Hatton National Bank non-voting gained Rs. 2.50 to close at Rs. 290.50. Lanka IOC and LB Finance were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka IOC moved up by Rs. 2.25 to close at Rs. 140.50. The share price of LB Finance appreciated by Rs. 4.75 to close at Rs. 140.

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