Colombo stock market rebounds as crossings boost turnover

Thursday, 28 August 2025 02:48 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock exchange closed up for the second consecutive session yesterday, with the benchmark ASPI closing 139.82 points higher at 20,753.21, gaining 0.68%.

The active S&P SL20 ended 0.23% higher, gaining 13.64 points to 6,062.44, with turnover reaching Rs. 7.38 billion, up from Rs. 5.1 billion the previous day.

First Capital Research said continuing the positive momentum from the previous session, the Colombo bourse maintained its upward trajectory, supported by steady fund inflows. Selected counters in the Construction and Materials sectors gained traction, driven by increased participation from both retail and HNW investors.

As a result, the ASPI closed at 20,753, recording a gain of 140 points. AEL, VONE, CTC, RCL, and CARG were among the top contributors to the index’s performance. Market turnover rose to Rs. 7.4 billion, marking a 17% increase compared to the monthly average of Rs. 6.3 billion, aided by several crossings.

The Diversified Financials sector led turnover contributions with a 20% share, while the Banking and Capital Goods sectors together accounted for 27% of the day’s total turnover. Foreign investors turned net sellers, with a net outflow of Rs. 63.1 million.

NDB Securities said the ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Access Engineering, Vallibel One, and Ceylon Tobacco Company, with the turnover crossing Rs. 7.3 billion. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in LOLC Holdings, Union Bank, and Asia Siyaka Commodities, accounting for 44.1% of the turnover.

Mixed interest was observed in JAT Holdings, John Keells Holdings, and Sierra Cables, whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing nonvoting, Beruwala Resorts, and UB Finance Company.

Foreign participation in market activity remained at subdued levels, with foreigners closing as net sellers.