The Colombo Stock Exchange returned to positive territory on 27 October 2026, ending a six-session losing streak as buying interest improved across the market.The ASPI gained 52.11 points, or 0.27%, to close at 19,692.67, while the S&P SL20 advanced 10.44 points, or 0.19%, to 5,612.31. The ASPI moved above 19,700 during the session before some late selling trimmed the gains.Market turnover stood at LKR 849.37 million, with 34.07 million shares traded. The Materials sector led activity with approximately LKR 229.66 million in turnover, followed by Capital Goods and Banks. CIC Holdings recorded the highest individual counter turnover at LKR 131.11 million.Crossings accounted for around 10% of total equity turnover, led by two CIC Holdings blocks totalling LKR 49.00 million, while John Keells Holdings recorded a LKR 32.04 million crossing.Market breadth improved considerably, with 125 gainers against 75 decliners, resulting in an advance-decline ratio of 1.67. Foreign investors also returned to net buying, recording an inflow of approximately LKR 35.12 million.Dialog Axiata was the strongest positive contributor to the ASPI, followed by Carson Cumberbatch, Ceylon Cold Stores, SMB Finance and Laugfs Gas. LAMB.N was the largest negative contributor, followed by Colombo Dockyard, Vallibel One, Hatton National Bank and LOLC Finance.

The first positive close after six consecutive declines, together with improved breadth and renewed foreign buying, indicates a recovery in short-term sentiment. However, turnover remained below LKR 1 billion and the ASPI continues to trade close to recent lows, suggesting stronger participation and follow-through buying will be needed to confirm a more sustainable recovery.