The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) began the new year on a highly positive note, with robust investor participation driving significant gains in key indices on the first trading day of 2026.

The benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI) surged by 239.77 points today (02), marking a 1.06% increase compared to the previous closing. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 Index, which tracks the performance of the 20 largest and most liquid stocks, climbed 28.71 points to close at 6,186.09 points.

A standout highlight of the day was the market turnover, which reached a noteworthy Rs. 5.16 billion – described as a record transaction value. This high level of activity underscores renewed confidence among investors as the market opened for 2026.

Local investors dominated the trading, with purchases totaling Rs. 5.02 billion and sales at Rs. 4.93 billion, resulting in net local buying. Foreign participation showed purchases of Rs. 146 million against sales of Rs. 233 million, indicating a net foreign outflow on the day.