CSE declines 0.64% on global oil price concerns

Wednesday, 19 August 2026 04:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market continued to slide yesterday, extending losses for a second straight session, on concerns over rising global oil prices.

Crude oil hit a two-week high yesterday above $ 91 a barrel amid concerns over escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The ASPI ended down 0.64% or 137.81 points at 21,479.07 as 171 counters ended in red against 48 in green. The active S&P SL20 was down 0.72% or 43.63 points at 6,040.91.

Top contributors to the ASPI decline were SAMP, DIAL, COMB, BREW and BUKI. Turnover was over Rs. 2 billion on over 80.2 million shares traded and foreign investors were net sellers on a net outflow of Rs. 606 million.

First Capital Research said investor sentiment weakened amid concerns over rising global oil prices, leading to broad-based profit-taking during the session.

Participation from both HNW and retail investors remained moderate. The capital goods sector dominated daily turnover, accounting for 49%, while the food, beverage and tobacco and healthcare equipment sectors collectively contributed a further 23%.