Colombo Stock Exchange turnover falls as Capital Goods sector dominates

Trading activity on the Colombo Stock Exchange showed mixed results on August 24, 2026. While overall market turnover fell by 18.8% to LKR 1,219.22 million, trading volume increased by 23.2% to 50.28 million shares.

Market activity was highly concentrated in three specific sectors, which accounted for nearly two-thirds of the day's turnover. The Capital Goods sector led with 39% of the total turnover, followed by the Materials and Banking sectors, which combined for 27%. SIRA was the largest individual contributor to turnover, representing 24% of the day's total.

In terms of indices, the All Share Price Index (ASPI) closed marginally higher by 0.05% at 21,416.61, while the S&P SL20 added 0.15% to reach 6,028.09. Individual stock performance varied, with SHOT leading gainers by 9%, while ASPH saw a decline of 14%.