The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) ended the trading session in negative territory as investors adopted a cautious stance.
The market decline was driven largely by profit-taking amid uncertainty surrounding an expected U.S. tariff announcement.
U.S. President Donald Trump is set to announce reciprocal tariffs later tonight, prompting investors to reassess their positions.
Concerns over potential tariffs on Sri Lanka have heightened, given their possible impact on the nation’s economy.
The All Share Price Index (ASPI) dropped 106.14 points, or 0.58%, closing at 18,042.20.
The S&P SL20 Index also declined, falling 26.04 points, or 0.49%, to close at 5,339.99.
Total market turnover stood at LKR 2.42 billion, with 153.84 million shares traded during the session.
Market breadth was negative, with 75 gainers and 136 losers contributing to the overall drop in the ASPI.
Teejay Lanka PLC (TJL.N) was the top positive contributor to the ASPI, adding 3.76 points.
In contrast, Melstacorp PLC (MELS.N) was the largest negative contributor, subtracting 13.38 points from the index.
The Capital Goods Sector led in turnover, generating LKR 0.563 billion and representing nearly 23% of total market activity.
Crossing transactions were limited, contributing around LKR 0.162 billion or 7% of the day’s turnover.
The most significant crossing involved Sampath Bank PLC, where 1 million shares changed hands in a transaction worth LKR 125 million.
