News Today: Detailed look into Colombo Stock Exchange trading activity trends

The Colombo Stock Exchange trading activity experienced heightened today, yet overall trading declined, closing the session on a slightly negative note. In the first half of the trading session alone, turnover surged to approximately LKR 5.00 billion, driven primarily by significant crossing transactions that influenced the market dynamics.

A standout transaction came from East West Properties PLC (EAST.N), where a crossing valued at LKR 3.23 billion was executed, involving an impressive 106.99 million shares. This acquisition was made by the renowned Sri Lankan business tycoon Mr. Dhammika Perera, who consequently emerged as the largest shareholder of East West Properties PLC.

Despite this surge in Colombo Stock Exchange trading activity, investor sentiment remained largely cautious. Many market participants opted for a wait-and-see approach, anticipating the potential impact of the upcoming reciprocal tariff announcement by the United States. This uncertainty triggered a broad-based sell-off across multiple counters, adding further pressure on the indices.

At market close, the benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI) declined by 10.08 points, or 0.06%, ending at 18,032.12. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 Index fell by 18.24 points, or 0.34%, to settle at 5,321.75. Total market turnover reached LKR 8.88 billion, with a trading volume of 239.27 million shares. Market breadth reflected bearish sentiment, recording 83 gainers against 113 losers.

LB Finance PLC (LFIN.N) emerged as the top positive contributor to the ASPI, adding 6.22 points, while John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH.N) weighed heavily on the index, deducting 16.15 points. The Real Estate Management & Development sector dominated sectoral turnover, generating LKR 3.53 billion—almost 40% of the day’s total.

Crossings played a major role, contributing about LKR 5.24 billion, roughly 60% of the total turnover. The significant East West Properties PLC deal remained the most impactful transaction of the day, reflecting the ongoing importance of large-scale strategic acquisitions in shaping Colombo Stock Exchange trading activity.