The Colombo Stock Exchange maintained a positive tone throughout today’s session, supported by improving macroeconomic signals, including a sharp decline in the USD/LKR exchange rate and continued easing of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Investor sentiment remained broadly positive, with the ASPI reaching an intraday high of over 140 points during the day.

However, despite the supportive backdrop, market participation remained relatively subdued, as no significant expansion in turnover or volumes was observed. The session was largely characterized by selective accumulation, with value investors focusing on stocks supported by solid quarterly earnings rather than broad-based momentum buying.

The Capital Goods sector led today’s market activity, recording LKR 0.54 Bn in turnover with 22.38 Mn shares traded. JKH.N was the standout contributor within the sector, generating LKR 0.38 Bn in turnover with 18.81 Mn shares traded.

At the close, the ASPI rose by 95.70 points (+0.44%) to 21,929.64, while the S&P SL20 gained 22.31 points (+0.37%) to 6,061.02. Total market turnover stood at LKR 2.17 Bn, with share volume recorded at 78.36 Mn shares.

Crossings accounted for LKR 0.40 Bn, representing 18% of total turnover, with the largest crossing recorded in JKH.N amounting to LKR 0.14 Bn involving 7.50 Mn shares traded. Market breadth remained slightly positive, with 126 gainers against 76 decliners, indicating selective buying interest across the broader market.