📉 CSE Ends Down 0.38%, Falls Below 20,000 Level

• Overall Market Performance: Colombo Stock Exchange continued its downward trend due to oil price volatility and geopolitical tensions. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) dropped 0.38% (-75.64 points) to close at 19,983.78—falling below the 20,000 threshold for the second time in over 13 months. The S&P SL20 index declined 0.34% (-19.24 points) to 5,681.51. • Market Sentiment & Breadth: Market breadth was distinctly negative, with 149 decliners against 57 gainers. The main drags on the ASPI were LOLC, Dialog Axiata (DIAL), Hatton National Bank (HNB), LANKA ALUMINIUM (LAMB), and Overseas Realty (OSEA). • Turnover & Foreign Activity: Market activity remained subdued with total turnover staying below Rs. 750 million on over 25.8 million shares traded, driven by muted participation from retail and high-net-worth investors. Foreign investors recorded a net outflow of Rs. 59.8 million. • Sector Breakdown: The banking sector led turnover, contributing 32% of the day's total value. The capital goods and food, beverage & tobacco sectors collectively accounted for 30% of turnover.