The Colombo Stock Exchange witnessed a milestone on Monday as the benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI) surpassed the 17,500 level for the first time in history, closing at 17,500.24 after gaining 105.79 points or 0.61%. The S&P SL20 index also moved higher, adding 33 points or 0.64% to end at 5,208.95.

Market turnover was strong at Rs. 2.85 billion, with over 121.8 million shares traded. The rally was broad-based, with 108 stocks contributing positively to the ASPI, while 85 counters closed lower.

Major drivers of today’s historic advance included Hayleys PLC, Ceylinco Holdings, Ceylon Cold Stores, Hatton National Bank and Ceylon Tobacco Company.

Investor sentiment remained upbeat, buoyed by continued optimism over macroeconomic stability and improving corporate performance.