The Colombo Stock Exchange extended its upward momentum today, supported by improving global sentiment following easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the gradual stabilization of international markets. The sharp decline in global oil prices, coupled with gains across major global equity indices, created a more favorable backdrop for emerging and frontier markets, positively influencing investor sentiment at the CSE.

Renewed optimism among investors drove both indices firmly into positive territory, while improved turnover and significantly higher share volumes reflected a clear return of buying interest across the broader market. The session was characterized by strong participation, particularly in selected high-volume counters, as investors responded positively to the improving external environment.

The Materials sector dominated today’s market turnover, recording LKR 1.38 Bn with 220.71 Mn shares traded. CIC.N emerged as the highest contributor within the sector, generating LKR 0.98 Bn in turnover with 30.55 Mn shares traded.At the close, the ASPI gained 258.09 points (+1.13%) to settle at 22,997.86, while the S&P SL20 advanced by 47.13 points (+0.75%) to close at 6,292.26. Total market turnover stood at LKR 5.28 Bn, with share volume reaching a notable 514.60 Mn shares.Crossings accounted for LKR 1.03 Bn, representing 19% of total turnover, with the largest crossing recorded in CIC.N amounting to LKR 0.80 Bn involving 24.91 Mn shares traded. Market breadth remained firmly positive, with 167 gainers against 65 decliners, indicating broad-based buying interest across the market.

On the positive side, CINS.N (+20.90 points) led index gains, followed by JKH.N, PKME.N, CFIN.N, and NDB.N. On the downside, DIAL.N (-14.15 points) emerged as the largest drag, while GLAS.N, HNB.N, ABL.N, and LION.N also exerted mild pressure on the index.

Among notable trades, OSEA.N recorded significant activity with LKR 0.21 Bn in turnover and 4.06 Mn shares traded, posting a price gain of 6.94%, reflecting continued investor interest in selected momentum counters.