The Colombo bourse experienced a rebound today (13) after steep falls over two days, one that reflects a belief among investors that the economy will enjoy a recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.

The ASPI closed 119.30 points or 2.81% up at 4,367.25 and the S&P SL20 index of most liquid stocks went up 2.59% or 43.70 points to 1,729.15 within the day.

The ASPI gain 2.81% is the highest percentage gain since November 2018 and the S&P SL20 index gain 2.59% is the highest percentage gain since July 2019.

Meanwhile, Rs.978.44 million turnover was recorded at the CSE today.

Beginning trading after 7 weeks of shutdown, the CSE on Monday (11) closed within 38 seconds, with S&P SL20 index falling 10%.

On Tuesday (12) Within 10 minutes of market opening, the S&P SL20 crashed by 5%, triggering the circuit breaker. After a 30-minute cooling period, trading resumed.

Today, 142 companies positively contributed to the ASPI’s gain. Five companies that mainly contributed to the ASPI’s gain were; LOLC, LB Finance, Cargills, Hemas Holdings and Meltascorp.

Meanwhile, In the retail market, three companies that mainly contributed to the day's turnover were; Commercial Bank Rs. 159.99 million, John Keells Holdings Rs.157.88 million and Lion Brewery Rs.102 million.

The stock exchange had already shortened operations to two hours as the island nation’s capital remains under curfew even as the government allowed public and private companies to resume operations from Monday.