CSE ends on the up on blue-chip counters

Friday, 27 February 2026 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Colombo stocks ended on the up yesterday driven by blue chip stocks.

The ASPI ended up 0.33% or 78.13 points at 23,781.23 and the S&P SL20 was up 0.37% or 24.90 points at 6,710.17.

Market turnover was over Rs. 4.9 billion on nearly 195.9 million shares traded.

First Capital Research said blue chips lifted the market amid a banking sell-off. Following a mildly volatile start to the session, the bourse gathered momentum and trended steadily higher during afternoon trading.

The indices advanced, supported by the buying interest in blue-chip counters, which underpinned the upward movement. JKH, HAYL, MELS, AEL and LMF emerged as the key positive contributors to the index.

Market participation remained at an average level for both retail and HNW investors. Banking sector counters experienced notable selling pressure, in the wake of recent fourth-quarter earnings releases, as investors reassessed valuations and near-term earnings outlooks.

Meanwhile, the capital goods sector emerged as the leading contributor to daily turnover, accounting for 27% of total market activity. The banking and diversified financials sectors followed, collectively contributing 25% to overall turnover. Foreign investors turned net buyers, posting a net inflow of Rs. 194 million.