CSE ends volatile session in red

Wednesday, 18 February 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market closed in the red yesterday after enduring a volatile trading session.

The ASPI closed down 0.07% or 17.29 points at 23,882.82, and the active S&P SL20 index was down 0.02% or 1.62 points at 6,708.71.

Market turnover was over Rs. 4.2 billion on over 160.8 million shares traded. Foreign investors remained net sellers, posting a net outflow of Rs. 42.3 million.

First Capital Research said the bourse traded slightly lower during the session, as early gains were reversed by profit-taking, particularly in banking counters following their previous day’s rally.

Indices recorded modest declines but recovered part of the losses toward the close. Leading negative contributors to the ASPI were CTHR, PABC, DIMO, DFCC and RICH.

Market breadth was negative, with 124 stocks declining compared to 105 advancers.

HNW investor participation remained subdued, while retail investor activity was observed at average levels, particularly in retail trading stocks. Daily turnover was below average level standing at Rs. 4.2 billion. Turnover dropped 37.7% over the monthly average of Rs. 6.8 billion.

The capital goods sector led the daily turnover with a share of 22%, followed by the banking, and food beverage and tobacco sectors collectively contributing 30%.

CT Smith Securities aid Softlogic Capital PLC led turnover, generating Rs. 274 million with 34.2 million shares traded at Rs. 8.30. Prime Lands Residencies PLC followed with Rs. 245 million in turnover, as 4.8 million shares changed hands at Rs. 52.60. Lanka Milk Foods contributed Rs. 240 million to turnover, with 2.7 million shares traded at Rs. 87.60.