📈 CSE Edges Up Marginally Amid Subdued Investor Sentiment

The Colombo Stock Exchange closed slightly higher yesterday on mixed sentiment, with low participation from high-net-worth and retail investors. • Market Indices & Turnover: The ASPI ended up 0.01% (+2.97 points) at 22,256.49, while the S&P SL20 dipped 0.03% (-2.06 points) to 6,193.65. Total turnover crossed Rs. 1.56 Bn with over 65.1 Mn shares traded. Foreign investors recorded a net outflow of Rs. 225 Mn. • Sector Performance: • Capital Goods: Led daily turnover with a 27% share, driven by Hemas Holdings (top turnover contributor at Rs. 214 Mn, closing up at Rs. 32.50) and John Keells Holdings (closed flat at Rs. 20.20). The sector index gained 0.22%. • Banking & Diversified Financials: Collectively contributed 29% to turnover. The banking index rose 0.13%, supported by National Development Bank (turnover of Rs. 169 Mn, gaining Rs. 1.50 to close at Rs. 111.50). • Other Sectors: Buying interest was noted in defensive sectors like power & energy (Hayleys Fibre rose Rs. 9.75 to Rs. 160; Panasian Power fell 40 cents to Rs. 16) and property. • Investor Participation: Institutional and high-net-worth activity was concentrated in Hemas Holdings, NDB, and Pan Asia Banking Corporation, though overall high-net-worth and retail participation remained subdued. Top positive contributors to the ASPI included CTHR, LFIN, NDB, DIAL, and NHL.