CSE gains Rs. 92 b in first session of 2026

Saturday, 3 January 2026 00:44 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Colombo stock market made a solid start in the first trading session for 2026 yesterday ending on the up and gaining more than Rs. 91.8 billion in value.

The ASPI ended 1.06% on the up, or 239.77 points to close at 22,864.08 and the S&P SL20 index was up 0.47% or 28.71 points to 6,186.09.

Market turnover was over Rs. 5.16 billion on nearly 133 million shares traded. Foreign investors were net sellers on a net outflow of Rs. 87.7 million.

First Capital Research said the Bourse commenced trading for 2026 on a positive note, with strong buying interest driving a sharp uptick at the opening bell.

A sharp surge at the opening bell signalled eager buying, after which the index settled into a calm, confident climb.

Top positive contributors to the ASPI were ACL, COMB, AEL, DFCC and DIPD. Retail investors took a major part in today’s market activity while HNW participation was at an average level.

Notable interest was observed in Capital Goods sector, particularly counters focused on manufacturing and marketing of cables and conductors, ranking among the highest turnovers for the day.

Additionally, property sector stocks edged higher over the course of the day. The Capital Goods sector contributed 46% of total turnover, while Materials sector and the Food Beverage and Tobacco sector together accounted for 18%.