CSE ends in red, down 0.49% on Mideast tensions

Wednesday, 6 May 2026 00:20 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market closed in red yesterday on dampened investor sentiment due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The ASPI was down 0.49% or 110.70 points to 22,584.30 and the S&P SL20 declined 0.50% or 31.40 points to 6,213.24.

Market turnover was over Rs. 2.1 billion on nearly 98 million shares traded. Foreign investors remained net seller on a net outflow of Rs. 42 million.

First Capital Research said Iran’s strikes on the Fujairah oil port and subsequent US retaliation have intensified geopolitical tensions despite optimism over peace talks, dampening sentiment and driving the Colombo bourse lower.

CINS, CTHR, HAYL, SAMP, and HHL emerged as the top negative contributors. Market participation from both HNW and retail investors remained subdued, reflecting an overall weak sentiment. The banking sector contributed 17% to turnover, followed by the diversified financials and capital goods sectors collectively contributing 32%.

NDB Securities said high net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka and John Keells Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in ACL Cables, Ceylon Grain Elevators and Janashakthi Limited, whilst retail interest was noted in Citrus Leisure, Industrial Asphalts and SMB Leasing. Foreign participation in market activity remained at subdued levels, with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The banking sector was the top contributor to market turnover due to Commercial Bank, whilst the sector index lost 0.38%. The share price of Commercial Bank lost 25 cents to close at Rs. 209.75.

The diversified financials sector was the second highest contributor to market turnover due to LB Finance), whilst the sector index decreased by 0.49%. The share price of LB Finance closed flat at Rs. 155.

Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka, ACL Cables and Citrus Leisure PLC were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka increased Rs. 2 to close at Rs. 155. The share price of ACL Cables moved down 50 cents to Rs. 100 and Citrus Leisure recorded a gain of Rs. 0.20 (4.65%) to close at Rs. 4.50.