FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – The Colombo Stock Exchange in Sri Lanka experienced a decline on Tuesday, despite remaining in positive territory for a significant portion of the trading day, according to data from the CSE.
The All Share Price Index (ASPI) fell by 0.07 percent, equivalent to a decrease of 15.40 points, closing at 22,298. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 index dropped by 0.21 percent, or 13.21 points, ending the day at 6,148.
Market analysts attributed the initial rise in stock prices to comments made by US President Trump regarding the potential resumption of peace negotiations with Iran, which may help alleviate the ongoing conflict.
Among the top gainers contributing positively to the ASPI were Dialog Axiata, which rose by 1.36 percent to reach Rs.37.40; Vallibel One, increasing by 2.52 percent to Rs.97.60; Colombo Dockyard, up by 1.54 percent at Rs.132.25; and Browns Investments, which saw a rise of 1.67 percent to Rs.6.10.
Conversely, the leading decliners included Sampath Bank, down by 0.68 percent at Rs.145.75; Melstacorp, which fell by 0.66 percent to Rs.188.25; Commercial Bank of Ceylon, decreasing by 0.36 percent to Rs.205.50; and Hatton National Bank, down by 0.37 percent at Rs.406.00.
The market recorded a turnover of 2.32 billion rupees, with the capital goods sector accounting for the largest share at 678.6 million rupees.
Singer Sri Lanka reported a notable performance, with profits soaring 77 percent to reach 2.48 billion rupees for the quarter ending in March 2026. However, its shares closed at Rs.77.20, reflecting a decrease of 2.89 percent.
Additionally, Union Chemicals Lanka declared a dividend of 44 rupees per share on its 1,500,000 shares, with its stock closing at Rs.2,506.25, down by 2.92 percent. (Colombo/May19/2026)
