Profit taking drags CSE down 0.12%

Thursday, 12 March 2026 04:48 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market failed to hold the previous session’s recovery ending yesterday in red dragged down by profit taking.

The ASPI was down 0.12% or 26.97 points at 22,351.55 and the active S&P SL20 closed marginally lower, down 0.01% or 0.72 points to 6,279.70.

Market turnover was over Rs. 4.3 billion on over 219 million shares traded. Foreign investors were net sellers on a net outflow of Rs. 21.36 million

First Capital Research said the bourse witnessed an upward movement at the open, extending yesterday’s positive sentiment; however, the market gradually declined as trading progressed due to profit-taking.

Market breadth was negative, mainly driven by declines in MELS, DOCK, CARS, SPEN and LLUB which collectively weighed on overall market performance. HNW remained subdued while retail investors lead the market turnover. Notable retail interest was observed in LCBF, SCAP, SHL and CRL during the session.

The diversified financials sector led the daily turnover with a share of 24%, followed by the capital goods, and banking sectors collectively contributing 31%.