CSE Closes in Red as ASPI Dips Below 23,000 Mark 📉

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) experienced a downturn yesterday, driven by geopolitical concerns and weaker corporate earnings in the banking sector. • Market Indices & Turnover The benchmark ASPI fell by 0.41% (95 points) to close at 22,920.32, while the S&P SL20 dropped 0.40% to 6,269.41. Daily turnover remained steady at over Rs. 2.8 Bn, with 142.4 million shares traded. • Sector Performance The capital goods sector led turnover with a 19% share. Diversified financials and food, beverage & tobacco followed, contributing a combined 32%. The banking sector faced downward pressure following a decline in 1Q 2026 earnings. • Investor Sentiment & Activity Market activity was characterized by profit-taking and caution due to Middle East tensions and the upcoming US-China summit. Participation from High Net Worth (HNW) and retail investors was notably lower. • Foreign Interest & Top Counters Foreign investors recorded a net outflow of Rs. 29.5 Mn. LMF.N saw the highest net foreign buying (Rs. 108.8 Mn), while JKH.N led net foreign selling (Rs. 184.5 Mn). Major negative contributors to the ASPI included CINS, MELS, BUKI, NDB, and DFCC. • Valuation The overall Market P/E stood at 11.72. Crossings represented 12.8% of total turnover, primarily led by JKH.N.