FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – The Colombo Stock Exchange experienced a positive closing on Thursday, marking a consistent upward trend throughout the trading day, despite many investors still being absent due to the recent holiday.
“The index saw a steady rise from the morning hours, with minimal fluctuations,” stated Shahana Kanagaratnam, Senior Assistant Manager of Research at First Capital Holdings.
The All Share Price Index increased by 1.47 percent, or 327.49 points, reaching a total of 22,588.97. The S&P SL20 also saw a rise of 0.90 percent, climbing 55.77 points to settle at 6,230.76.
Key contributors to the positive movement of the ASPI included Carson Cumberbatch, which surged 13.84 percent to Rs.801.75, Hayleys with a 3.02 percent increase to Rs.230, John Keells Holdings rising 1.49 percent to Rs.20.40, and Dialog Axiata, which added 2.72 percent to reach Rs.34.00.
On the downside, DFCC Bank dropped 0.34 percent to Rs.145.00, Cargills fell 0.49 percent to Rs.704.50, and Asian Hotels & Properties decreased by 2.73 percent, closing at Rs.53.50.
The total market turnover for the day was recorded at 4.96 billion rupees, with capital goods accounting for 951 million rupees.
“The turnover remains respectable even with the holiday season, as many investors have yet to return to the market,” Kanagaratnam noted.
John Keells Holdings reported crossings amounting to 142.8 million rupees.
In global markets, there was a general upward trend following comments from US President Donald Trump on Fox News, suggesting that the conflict with Iran is nearing resolution.
However, India’s Nifty50 index experienced a slight decline of 0.18 percent, settling at 24,187.85 points. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index enjoyed a gain of 1.72 percent, closing at 26,394.26. (Colombo/April 16/2026)
