T
uesday’s trading session at the Colombo Stock Exchange concluded with positive gains across key indices, according to data from the exchange’s website.
The All Share Index edged up by 0.02 percent or 1.86 points to reach 12,273, reflecting marginal gains in the broader market sentiment. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 Index, which tracks the performance of the more liquid stocks, rose by 0.14 percent or 5.27 points to settle at 3,629.
Market turnover stood at 3.9 billion, with a significant portion amounting to Rs2.7 billion attributed to a transaction involving Commercial Bank of Ceylon Plc, closing higher at 106.00. This particular trade was noted for its stakeholder shift occurring at a premium over the market price.
According to Softlogic Stockbrokers, crossings accounted for 75 percent of the total turnover for the day. They noted a continuation of net inflows, albeit slightly lower than the previous day, indicating sustained foreign investor interest.
Foreign buying interest was particularly strong in John Keells Holdings Plc (closing at 206.00), Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) Plc (closing at 51.00), and Ceylon Cold Stores Plc (closing at 60.50).
Banking stocks mostly ended higher, driven by optimism surrounding upcoming developments in the country’s debt restructuring discussions. Notable exceptions were observed in Sampath Bank Plc (closing at 79.40) and Nations Trust Bank Plc (closing at 134.75).
Trading activities were predominantly led by corporates and high net-worth individuals, while retail investors adopted a cautious stance, awaiting crucial updates impacting the market.
Key contributors to the day’s index gains included Ceylon Tobacco Company Plc (closing at 1,250.00), Bukit Darah Plc (closing at 404.25), and Hatton National Bank Plc (closing at 206.00), reflecting the diverse sectoral participation in the market’s upward momentum.
