The ASPI opened around the 21,350 level and moved steadily higher during the morning session despite intermittent profit-taking. The index remained volatile around the 21,390 to 21,410 range through much of the afternoon, briefly moving above 21,410 before easing slightly towards the close.Total market turnover reached LKR 2.45 billion, while approximately 118.17 million shares changed hands during the session.The Food, Beverage and Tobacco sector dominated market activity, generating approximately LKR 646.04 million in turnover from 25.30 million shares. COCO.N accounted for the majority of sector activity, recording approximately LKR 502.57 million in turnover.Crossing transactions contributed approximately LKR 925.33 million, representing around 38% of total equity turnover. COCO.N recorded the largest crossing of the session, with 19.84 million shares changing hands at LKR 25.30, generating approximately LKR 501.93 million. Other notable crossings were recorded in DIPD.N, JKH.N, DIAL.N, TKYO.N and RCL.N.

Foreign investor activity provided further support to the market, with foreign investors turning net buyers and recording a net foreign inflow of LKR 68.36 million.Market breadth improved significantly, with 126 securities advancing against 84 decliners, resulting in an advance-to-decline ratio of 1.50. The stronger breadth indicated that the market advance was supported by broader participation rather than being concentrated solely in a small number of heavyweight counters.CINS.N was the strongest positive contributor to the ASPI, adding 41.92 points to the index. HAYC.N, RCL.N, DIPD.N and AEL.N also supported the market’s advance.

JKH.N recorded the largest negative contribution, reducing the ASPI by 22.14 points. BIL.N, BREW.N, HNB.N and CARS.N also weighed on the index.Among notable trades, COCO.N recorded the highest individual counter turnover at approximately LKR 502.57 million, followed by VFIN.N with LKR 281.44 million and DIPD.N with LKR 230.71 million.Overall, the session reflected a clear improvement in near-term market sentiment, supported by stronger market breadth, higher trading activity and the return of foreign buying. The ASPI’s move closer to the 21,400 level, together with positive participation across a wider range of counters, indicated improving momentum heading into the next session.