Total equity turnover for the day stood at Rs. 5.25 billion, with notable pressure from foreign investor activity. Net foreign outflows reached Rs. 2.52 billion, as foreign purchases amounted to Rs. 105.8 million against significantly higher sales of Rs. 2,627.4 million.
Sector-wise, the food, beverage, and tobacco segment led market turnover, contributing Rs. 1.32 billion. Within this space, Ceylon Tobacco Company featured prominently, recording a single crossing of 500,000 shares valued at Rs. 890 million at a price of Rs. 1,780.
Market activity was heavily influenced by negotiated deals, particularly involving Softlogic Life Insurance. The company accounted for Rs. 1.18 billion in turnover through 39 crossings totaling 13.1 million shares, transacted at a fixed price of Rs. 90.00.
Meanwhile, Hayleys Fabric reported three crossings totaling 4 million shares at Rs. 30.80, generating Rs. 123.2 million.
Across South Asia, markets showed mixed performance. Bangladesh’s DSE Board Index rose by 0.5%, bringing its year-to-date gain to 8.1%. In contrast, Pakistan’s Karachi All Share Index declined 0.9%, extending its year-to-date loss to 2.1%.
Indian equities also closed in negative territory, with the Nifty 50 falling 0.8% and the BSE Sensex 30 dropping 0.9%. Year-to-date, these indices have declined by 6.7% and 7.9%, respectively.
Overall, while Sri Lanka’s benchmark index managed a modest gain, persistent foreign selling and reliance on block trades highlight ongoing market fragility.
