FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – On Thursday, the Colombo Stock Exchange in Sri Lanka experienced a positive closing, driven by reports indicating that the United States has sent a one-page memorandum of understanding to Iran aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict, according to analysts.
The All Share Price Index (ASPI) rose by 1.13 percent, equivalent to 258.09 points, finishing at 22,997, just below the 23,000 threshold.
Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 index increased by 0.75 percent, or 47.13 points, closing at 6,292. This 245-point surge aligns with news of the US reaching out to Iran through Pakistan, seeking to terminate hostilities and facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, as noted by market analysts.
Several stocks contributed positively to the ASPI, including Ceylinco Insurance, which saw an increase of 4.07 percent to reach Rs.3,285.00, and John Keells Holdings, which rose by 1.46 percent to Rs.20.80. Additionally, Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka climbed by 4.53 percent to Rs.161.50, while Central Finance Company improved by 2.86 percent, finishing at Rs.252.00.
Conversely, the stocks that performed poorly included Dialog Axiata, which fell by 2.78 percent to Rs.35.00, PGP Glass Ceylon, down 2.69 percent at Rs.54.30, and Hatton National Bank, which decreased by 0.18 percent to Rs.413.50.
The total market turnover reached 5.28 billion rupees, with the materials sector leading in turnover at 1.38 billion rupees. Notable crossings occurred in various companies, including Commercial Bank (150,000 shares), CIC Holdings (909,500 shares), and John Keells Holdings (1 million shares), among others.
In corporate news, SMB Finance announced the resignation of its CEO and Non-Independent Executive Director, Supul Chamikara Wijesinghe, effective June 3. (Colombo/May07/2026)
