The All-Share Price Index (ASPI) failed to hold on to its early gains as selling pressure returned during trading, amid investor uncertainty over the economic outlook and escalating tensions in the Middle East. The index fell by 0.07% to 21,744.13, extending the multi day decline in the market.

Meanwhile, the more liquid S&P SL20 index also declined by 0.13% to close at 6,024.00. With today’s performance, year to date losses in the broader index widened to 3.89 percent, while the S&P SL20 is now down 2.17% for the year.

Market breadth remained negative, with 123 decliners outnumbering 84 gainers. The ASPI’s fall was mainly driven by Hayleys PLC (HAYL.N), Windforce PLC (WIND.N), and Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka PLC (PKME.N).

Market turnover stood at LKR 2.98 billion, below the year-to-date average daily turnover of LKR 4.82 billion. Trading activity was led by John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH.N), Access Engineering PLC (AEL.N), and Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS.N). Sector wise activity was concentrated in capital goods, food and beverage, and insurance.