The Colombo Bourse ended lower today, with the ASPI declining 15 points to close at 21,403, while the S&P SL20 edged down 2 points to 5,983.

After trading positively during the session, the market reversed course amid profit-taking following the recent gains. Low participation from both HNW and retail investors also contributed to the subdued market activity.

The main negative contributors to the ASPI were CINS, DIAL, JKH, SDB, and CTHR. Daily turnover stood at LKR 1.5Bn, marking a decrease of 47.5% over the monthly average of LKR 2.9Bn.

Capital Goods sector led the daily turnover with a share of 21%, followed by the Telecommunication, and Diversified Financials sectors collectively contributing 29%. Foreign investors remained net sellers, posting a net outflow of LKR 356.2Mn.

BOND MARKET

Moderate momentum in the secondary market

The secondary market depicted moderate trading volumes with banks largely active in today’s trading. Over 2028 segment, 15.10.2028 traded between a narrow range of 10.50%-10.48% and 15.12.2028 traded at 10.51%.

In the 2029 category, 15.09.2029 traded within the range of 10.80%-10.75%, while 15.12.2029 traded at 10.80%. Moving towards the mid-end, 15.05.2030 traded between 11.10%-11.00% and both 01.07.2030 and 15.10.2030 maturities traded at 11.15%

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Further along the curve, 01.02.2031 and 15.10.2034 bonds changed hands within the ranges of 11.30%-11.20% and 12.05%-12.00%. Finally, in the long-end, 01.07.2037 was dealt between 12.50%-12.45%.

On the external front, the LKR appreciated against the USD, standing at LKR 335.20/USD, compared to LKR 335.45/USD seen earlier. Market liquidity in the banking system expanded to LKR 274.0Bn from LKR 256.4Bn recorded previously.

-First Capital Research