CSE marginally up on subdued investor sentiment

Wednesday, 13 May 2026 12:14 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market yesterday ended a volatile session marginally higher, as investor sentiment remained subdued amid uncertainty surrounding developments in the escalating US-Iran conflict.

The ASPI peaked at 23,083.72 points in early trading before declining, ending up 0.02% or 3.60 points at 23,015.32 and the active S&P SL20 index was down 0.09% or 5.71 points at 6,294.31. Losers outpaced winners with 108 counters closing in green against 116 that ended in red.

Turnover was nearly Rs. 3.7 billion on over 158.6 million shares traded. Foreign investors were net sellers on a net outflow of Rs. 361.3 million.

First Capital Research said investors adopted a cautious stance as the Colombo bourse ended largely flat amid escalating US-Iran tensions, rising global oil prices, and growing uncertainty after Tehran warned of retaliation against “any aggression” while US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire remained on “life support”.

MELS, RIL, CIC, BUKI and CARG ranked among the leading positive contributors to the ASPI. Market activity remained at an average level, with balanced participation from both HNW and retail investors, reflecting an overall mixed sentiment. The diversified financials sector led the daily turnover with a share of 14%, followed by the real estate management and development, and transportation sectors collectively contributing 27%.