Large-cap banks lift indices

• 16 Feb 2026
• 0

The Colombo Bourse maintained its upward bias, supported predominantly by strength in large-cap banking counters, as investors positioned ahead of forthcoming earnings releases and anticipated dividend announcements.

The ASPI advanced by 190 points to close at 23,900, while the S&P SL20 gained 92 points to 6,710. Leading positive contributors to the ASPI were HNB, SAMP, COMB, DOCK, and NDB.

Market breadth was negative, with 135 stocks declining compared to 96 advancers, underscoring that the index gains were largely driven by strength in select large-cap banking counters.

HNW investor participation remained subdued, while retail investor activity was observed at average levels resulting in a daily turnover of LKR 5.6Bn. This marks an 18.1% decline compared to the monthly average turnover of LKR 6.9Bn.

Banking sector led the daily turnover with a share of 33%, followed by the Capital Goods, and Diversified Financials sectors collectively contributing 32%. Foreign investors remained net sellers, posting a net outflow of LKR 167.7Mn.

BOND MARKET

Short and mid-term trades dominate as the yield curve holds steady

The secondary bond market posted a mixed sentiment while the trading volumes stood at moderate levels during today’s session. Trades were concentrated on the short and mid tenors, while the yield curve stayed steady.

On the short end, 15.02.2028, 15.03.2028, 01.05.2028, 01.07.2028, 01.09.2028, 15.10.2028 and 15.12.2028 traded within 8.95%-9.10%. In terms of 2029 maturities, 15.06.2029, 15.09.2029, 15.10.2029 and 15.12.2029 traded in the range of 9.35%-9.45%.

Moving ahead, 01.03.2030, 01.05.2030 and 01.07.2030 changed hands within a narrow range of 9.49%-9.53%. Moreover, 15.03.2031 was dealt at 9.70% and 01.10.2032 was traded between 10.10%-10.13%.

Additionally, 01.06.2033 and 01.11.2033 maturities changed hands at 10.37% and 10.38% respectively. On the external front, the LKR appreciated against the USD, closing at LKR 309.21/USD compared to LKR 309.35/USD recorded the previous day. Overnight liquidity in the banking system contracted to LKR 270.99Bn from LKR 299.68Bn recorded previously.

Courtesy: First capital Research

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