CSE briefly hits 24,000 points; ends flat

Tuesday, 27 January 2026 03:54 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market reached an all-time high of 24,052.06 in early trading yesterday but quickly lost momentum to end flat.

The ASPI closed down 0.01% or 3.42 points at 23,953.09 but the active S&P SL20 index ended on the up by 0.20% or 13.62 points at 6,663.12.

Market turnover was over Rs. 5.4 billion on nearly 195 million shares traded.

Almas Equities Research said investor sentiment remained largely sideways throughout the session, as the market appears to be entering a consolidation phase near the 24,000 level. Portfolio rebalancing and sector rotation were evident, as investors sought better value and near-term opportunities.

Crossings amounted to Rs. 0.45 billon, accounting for 8% of total market turnover. The largest crossing was recorded in CARG.N, with a turnover of Rs. 0.15 billion involving 0.20 million shares. Market breadth remained slightly negative, with 95 gainers and 126 decliners, indicating subdued near-term sentiment.

Among notable trades, YORK.N recorded a sharp move, posting a turnover of Rs. 0.18 billion, with 11.65 million shares traded, alongside a price gain of 24.81%.

First Capital Research said the bourse displayed mixed sentiment during the trading session. Top negative contributors to the ASPI were SAMP, RICH, DFCC, CTHR and CARG.

After a prolonged period, LOLC and Browns Group counters led market turnover, with LOLC contributing Rs. 503.6 million (9.2%) to total turnover, followed by BRWN at Rs. 422.6 million (7.7%).

The capital goods sector led the daily turnover with a share of 29%, followed by the diversified financials, and the food, beverage and tobacco sectors collectively contributing 27%.

Foreign investors remained net sellers, posting a net outflow of Rs. 25 million.

Asia Securities said MELS (+16 points) and HARI (+14 points) came in as the major index movers while SAMP (-8 points) and RICH (-6 points) ended as the biggest laggards on the ASPI. Market breadth turned negative, with 94 price gainers and 154 decliners.