ASPI jumps 291 points as Colombo bourse sees Rs 3.33 bn turnover

The Colombo Stock Exchange recorded a strong upward movement today, with the All Share Price Index gaining 291.72 points to close at 21,531.37.

Market turnover amounted to 3.33 billion rupees for the day's session.

The more liquid S&P SL20 index rose 1.67 percent, or 100.96 points, to 6,146.34, while the benchmark ASPI ended 1.37 percent higher.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon, up 2.86 percent at 216.00 rupees, and Hatton National Bank were among the leading positive contributors to the index, with banking stocks dominating turnover.

The rally extends a recent surge in the market, which brokers have linked to falling lending rates at commercial banks. Lower borrowing costs have improved the profitability outlook for listed companies and drawn investors back into equities.