Sri Lanka’s Colombo Stock Exchange experienced gains on Thursday, with notable contributions from the capital goods and diversified financial sectors. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) rose by 0.33 percent, equating to an increase of 78.13 points, ending at 23,781.23. Similarly, the S&P SL20 index climbed by 0.37 percent, or 24.90 points, closing at 6,710.17.
Ranjan Ranatunga, Assistant Vice President of Research at First Capital, commented, “We’re seeing a bullish market today amidst the volatility of the market over the past few days. Most activity is seen from retailers.”
Top positive contributors to the ASPI included John Keells Holdings (Rs.22.80), Hayleys (Rs.244.75), and Melstacorp (Rs.183.50). Conversely, Hatton National Bank (Rs.450.75) was the most significant negative contributor.
Ranatunga further noted, “Interest was seen in the Softlogic Group, as well as in the construction and consumer sectors.”
The market turnover reached 4.02 billion rupees, with capital goods leading the turnover at 1.32 billion rupees. “Turnover is basically down due to not much high involvement from high net worth investors,” Ranatunga added.
In its quarterly financial statements, Hatton National Bank reported a 31 percent decline in profit for the December 2025 quarter, amounting to 14.12 billion rupees. The bank also announced a dividend of Rs. 20.00 per share, consisting of Rs. 15.00 per share in cash and Rs. 5.00 per share as a scrip dividend on both voting and non-voting shares. The stock closed at Rs.450.75, reflecting a decrease of 1.04 percent.
Additionally, the Bank of Ceylon reported earnings of 20.69 billion rupees, representing a 19 percent decrease for the December 2025 quarter.
(Colombo/February 26, 2026)
