FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – The Colombo Stock Exchange in Sri Lanka experienced a decline on Thursday, according to data from the CSE, with the benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI) decreasing by 0.60 percent.
Raynal Wickremeratne, the Head of Research and Strategy at NDB Securities, noted that investor sentiment has soured significantly due to escalating conflicts in the Middle East. He remarked, “There are no significant indicators to imply any imminent recovery.”
The ASPI fell by 130.78 points, closing at 21,697.72. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 index, which reflects more liquid stocks, decreased by 0.59 percent, equating to a drop of 36.28 points, ending at 6,063.24.
Wickremeratne emphasized that the prevailing global uncertainties have led to a slowdown in market activity, prompting investors to focus on companies demonstrating specific improvements rather than considering the overall market trend.
Among the few positive performers contributing to the ASPI were Seylan Bank, which saw a rise of 1.50 percent to 101.50 rupees, Lanka IOC, up 0.89 percent to 141.25 rupees, and Malwatte Valley Plantations, increasing by 4.36 percent to 57.40 rupees.
On the downside, notable decliners included Commercial Bank of Ceylon, down 0.85 percent to 205.25 rupees, Melstacorp, which fell by 0.93 percent to 186.00 rupees, Lion Brewery (Ceylon), decreasing by 4.31 percent to 1,727.25 rupees, and Hayleys, down 1.07 percent to 231.50 rupees.
The total market turnover was recorded at 1.44 billion rupees, with the capital goods sector leading turnover contributions at 539.1 million rupees.
Wickremeratne mentioned that investors are keenly awaiting the upcoming elections in the United States in November, as well as Sri Lanka’s national budget.
Additionally, Vidullanka announced its first dividend distribution of 0.20 rupees per share (gross dividend subject to withholding tax) for its shareholders. This distribution does not require prior approval from shareholders and is expected to be processed by August 7, 2026. (Colombo/July09/2026)
