FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – The Colombo Stock Exchange in Sri Lanka experienced a significant decline upon opening on Tuesday, driven by investor uncertainty stemming from tensions in the Middle East, according to brokers.
Dimantha Matthew, Chief Research and Strategy Officer at First Capital Holdings PLC, stated, “Uncertainty caused by the situation in the Middle East has impacted all markets.”
The All Share Price Index (ASPI) fell by 5.27 percent, or 1,250.30 points, reaching 22,483.76. Similarly, the S&P SL20 index decreased by 5.53 percent, or 366.97 points, to settle at 6,269.00.
The Colombo Stock Exchange announced, “The market has been halted due to the S&P SL20 index dropping over 5% from the previous close.” Regular trading is set to resume in 30 minutes.
Following the market halt, the trading sessions have been rescheduled as follows: the halt duration was from 9:31 a.m. to 9:36 a.m., followed by an auction session from 9:36 a.m. to 10:01 a.m. Regular trading will recommence at 10:01 a.m.
Matthew further commented, “Supply route disruption will have severe effects if it continues.”
(Colombo/Mar3/2026)
