The Colombo Bourse closed in positive territory today, with the ASPI gaining 30 points to close at 21,448, while the S&P SL20 advanced 16 points to close at 6,005.

The market remained relatively subdued during the first half of the session before gaining momentum in the latter half, supported by several negotiated crossings, particularly in EBCR, which lifted overall investor sentiment.

HNW investors accounted for the majority of market turnover, while retail participation remained slightly below average. The main positive contributors to the ASPI were DIAL, HAYC, CFIN, JKH, and CTHR.

Daily turnover stood at LKR 1.5Bn, marking a decrease of 21.9% over the monthly average of LKR 1.9Bn. Capital Goods sector led the daily turnover with a share of 48%, followed by the Banking, and Materials sectors collectively contributing 28%. Foreign investors remained net sellers, posting a net outflow of LKR 26.9Mn.

BOND MARKET

Buying interest picks up in the 2028 segment amid moderate activity

Sentiment in the secondary market appeared dull today as trades stood at limited to moderate levels. Against this backdrop, 2028 maturities gained some traction, as the segment attracted some local buying interest, however, the overall yield curve remained broadly unchanged.

The 2028 segment witnessed the most activity, with maturities dated 15.01.2028, 15.02.2028, 15.03.2028, 01.05.2028 and 01.07.2028, trading from 10.50% to 10.75%.

Within the 2029 segment, the 15.12.2029 bond traded at 11.10% and within the 2030 segment, the 01.08.2030 and 15.10.2030 maturities traded from 11.55% to 11.60%.

On the external front, the LKR depreciated against the USD, standing at LKR 336.40/USD, compared to LKR 336.28/USD seen earlier.

Liquidity in the banking system slightly contracted to LKR 153.41Bn from LKR 157.19Bn recorded previously. Popular maturities traded:

Select maturities within the broader 2028 segment (Yields trended upward)

-First Capital Research-