CSE edges lower, foreign investors emerge net buyers

Wednesday, 20 May 2026 05:37 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market yesterday failed to maintain a sharp early trading gain to close down a marginally lower with foreign investors emerging as net buyers.

The ASPI gained over 235 points in early trading before ending the session down 0.07% or 15.40 points at 22,298.07 while the S&P SL20 ended down 0.21% or 31.21 points to 6,148.77.

Market turnover was over Rs. 2.3 billion on over 93.1 million shares traded. Foreign investors were net buyers with a net inflow of over Rs. 50 million.

First Capital Research said the Colombo bourse edged marginally lower reversing the buying momentum observed during early trading hours, which was driven by bargain hunting following the previous session’s decline.

Market sentiment weakened in the latter half of the session due to profit-taking activities, reflecting investor concerns over uncertain economic conditions and prevailing global uncertainties. JKH, RICH, CIC, SAMP and NDB were among the top negative contributors to the ASPI.

Participation from both HNW and retail investors remained subdued throughout the session. The capital goods sector led the daily turnover with a share of 29%, followed by the banking, and food, beverage and tobacco sectors collectively contributing 27%.