The Colombo Stock Exchange in Sri Lanka experienced gains on Tuesday, as indicated by data from its site, following a decline in oil prices to below $100 per barrel.
According to brokers, traders often engage in day trading to secure quick profits during periods of uncertainty. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) increased by 2.17%, or 474.38 points, closing at 22,378.52. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 rose 2.62%, or 160.42 points, concluding at 6,289.28.
Top contributors to the ASPI’s positive performance included Hatton National Bank, which increased by 3.52% to Rs.427.00, Sampath Bank, up 3.33% to Rs.155.25, and Commercial Bank, which rose by 2.19% to Rs.209.75. Additionally, John Keells Holdings climbed 2.49% to Rs.20.60, and Dialog Axiata surged 3.75% to Rs.33.20.
The market’s turnover reached 4.48 billion rupees, with significant contributions from trades in capital goods amounting to 751 million rupees, and the food, beverage, and tobacco sectors, contributing 706 million rupees.
Softlogic Holdings witnessed six crossings, according to Almas Equities, adding Rs.123 million to the turnover. The stock closed with a notable increase of 47.22%, reaching 10.60 rupees. Renuka Hotels had a crossing worth Rs.218.22 million, with 1.01 million shares traded at Rs.215 per share, and closed up 2.65% at 232.00 rupees.
The drop in global oil prices followed a statement from US President Donald Trump, who expressed optimism that the conflict with Iran would end ‘very soon’.
(Colombo/March 10/2026)
