CSE falls sharply on profit taking

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 02:53 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market opened the week in red, falling sharply yesterday as investors booked profits.

The ASPI ended down a sharp 1.01% to close 236.07 points lower at 23,223.68 while the S&P SL20 closed 0.40% down, 25.93 points lower at 6,410.00.

Turnover was over Rs. 4.4 billion on nearly 138.8 million shares traded. Foreigners were net sellers with a net outflow of Rs. 151.8 million.

First Capital Research said the Colombo Bourse experienced notable volatility during early trading hours before retreating in the latter part of the session amid profit-taking pressure.

Retail participation remained moderate, while HNW activity continued to be relatively subdued.

CINS, SFCL, BUKI, COMB and SAMP emerged as the key negative contributors to the index. The Banking sector dominated activity, accounting for 19% of total turnover, followed by the Capital Goods and Food, Beverage & Tobacco sectors, which together contributed 38%.