CSE falls to six-month low, turnover lowest this year

Tuesday, 29 September 2026 04:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market yesterday closed at a six-month low amid subdues activity, ending below 21,000 points for the first time since 23 March, 2026.

The ASPI ended down 0.44% or 93.56 points at 20,943.79 and the active S&P SL20 fell 0.34% or 20 points to 5,920.72.

Activity was subdued with less than 32.2 million stocks traded and turnover falling to Rs. 596 million. Foreign investors turned net buyers, posting a net inflow of Rs. 7.9 million.

First Capital Research said the bourse continued its downward trajectory with heightened selling sentiment weighing on market performance.

Top negative contributors to the ASPI were CARS, DIAL, COMB, CINS and SEMB. Turnover remained below the Rs. 1 billion mark, recording its lowest level of the year, with HNW activity remaining thin as investors took a backseat.

Retail participation was also low, although retail investors accounted for the majority of turnover. Selling pressure was heightened by margin calls towards the September month-end, contributing to the continued weakness in the market.

The diversified financials sector led the daily turnover with a share of 22%, followed by the capital goods, and materials sectors collectively contributing 38%.