Business
Notable dip in blue-chip counters as macro and micro uncertainties weigh on bourse
By Hiran H.Senewiratne
The CSE surrendered its early gains to close marginally lower yesterday as looming macro and micro economic uncertainties weighed on investor sentiment amid a significant drop in blue-chip counters, stock market analysts said.
Despite global tensions with regard to the Russian- Ukraine issue easing out, since Russia is reportedly looking for a diplomatic intervention, the local micro economic front did not seem to facilitate profitable stock market operations, which factor dragged the bourse to negative territory, stock market analysts added. Moreover, an increase in world crude oil prices to the higher level of US $ 94 per barrel from US $ 72, put more pressure on the Sri Lankan economy due to the ongoing currency crisis, market analysts pointed out.
Against this backdrop, the stock market started on a positive note but later turned negative, especially with regard to blue-chip counters. Both indices moved downward. The All- Share Price Index went down by 106 points and S and P SL20 declined by 16.8 points.
Turnover stood at Rs 3.2 billion with a single crossing. The crossing was recorded from Melstacorp, which crossed 390,000 shares to the tune of Rs 26.6 million, its shares traded at Rs 56.
In the retail market, top seven companies that were mainly contributed to the turnover were; Commercial Leasing and Finance Rs 756 million (16.9 million shares traded), LOLC Finance Rs 460 million (17.2 million shares traded), Browns Investments Rs 229 million (16.2 million shares traded), Expolanka Rs 163 million (503,000 shares traded), Sinhaputhra Finance Rs 142 million (4.2 million shares traded), Softlogic Life Insurance Rs 102.6 million (738,000 shares traded) and Softlogic Holdings Rs 68.8 million (953,000 shares traded). During the day 108 million share volumes changed hands in 36000 share transactions.
The index pared early gains thereupon and slipped into negative territory as investors realized quick profits, capitalizing on recent sharp price increases in select heavyweight counters. However, activity continued at moderate levels with daily turnover coming in at a four-month low. The breadth of the market ended negative with 78 price gainers and 121 decliners, market watchers said.
It is said that foreigners recorded a net outflow of Rs. 42 million, while their participation increased marginally to 2.7 per cent of turnover (previous day 2.3 percent). Reportedly, high net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Royal Ceramics, Softlogic Life Insurance and LOLC Holdings.
Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Vallibel Finance and Sunshine Holdings, while retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing non-voting, Dialog Axiata and Browns Investments. The share price of Vallibel Finance gained Rs. 3.50 to close at Rs. 55.
The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics), while the sector index increased by 0.06 per cent. The share price of Royal Ceramics recorded a gain of 60 cents to close at Rs. 71.90. Further First Capital Holdings and First Capital Treasuries announced subdivision of shares from one existing share into four new shares.
Yesterday, the US dollar was quoted at Rs 202.52, which was the controlled price of the Central Bank. The Central Bank has imposed a ceiling of Rs 203 per US dollar. However, market sources said that the actual price would be more than Rs 250.
MullenLowe Group Sri Lanka (MLG) announced the appointment of Sarah Nasry as Director & Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.
In her new role, Sarah will lead both the Finance and Human Resources functions at MullenLowe Group Sri Lanka, playing a pivotal role in shaping the company’s financial strategy and people agenda. She holds a distinguished track record across multiple business disciplines, including Supply Chain, ICT, Administration, Corporate Communications, and CSR. Sarah brings a wealth of experience from her most recent position as General Manager – Finance & Business Partnering at Brandix, Sri Lanka’s leading apparel manufacturer.
Recognised for her strengths in business partnering, financial planning, and strategic decision-making, Sarah is also widely respected for nurturing inclusive, people-centric cultures that foster growth and high performance.
Thayalan Bartlett, Executive Chairman of MLG, commented, “Sarah’s appointment follows an extensive search for the right person to lead our finance division through the next phase of our journey. Her wide-ranging experience and strong leadership credentials give me every confidence that she will continue to strengthen the financial integrity and compliance standards we are known for, and the Board looks forward to working closely alongside her in this journey.”
Sarah also marks a significant milestone for the company, becoming the first female member of MLG’s Board of Directors. She will additionally serve on the MLG Executive Committee (ExCo), reinforcing the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion at the leadership level.
Commenting on her appointment, Sarah said, “I am honoured and excited to join MullenLowe Group Sri Lanka and help steer the company into its next chapter. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at MLG to drive financial strength, champion a people-first culture, and build on the company’s strong legacy of creativity and performance.”
Business
Sun Siyam Pasikudah Named Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award Best of the Best Winner for 2025
Sun Siyam Pasikudah, a boutique luxury resort on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast, is thrilled to announce its recent win at the Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best for 2025, placing it among the top 10 percent of resorts worldwide. This accolade reflects the resort’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences, sustainable practices, and community engagement.
As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travelers and diners. This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of travelers’ favorites.
Reopened in November 2023 after an extensive transformation, Sun Siyam Pasikudah offers 34 spacious one- and two-bedroom garden and beach pavilions, each featuring bold monochromatic interiors accented with golden tones. The redesign, led by Studio Sixty7, emphasizes a blend of contemporary elegance and local craftsmanship. The resort collaborated with local artisans, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich talent and cultural heritage.
‘‘We are thrilled to being recognized on par with some of the world’s best resorts. Under just two years since our reopening, this achievement couldn’t be possible with the tremendous effort and support of our world-class team and our guests that keep coming for the unique experiences we offer. We are proud to contribute to Sri Lanka, a destination that is on every traveler’s go-to list,’ said its General Manager, Arshed Refai who has been with Sun Siyam Resorts for over a decade.
OTTO Bathware has received Sri Lanka Standards (SLS) certification from the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI). This certification confirms that OTTO’s sanitaryware meets the highest national standards for safety, durability, and performance. With over 30 years of experience, OTTO Bathware operates under the ADI Group (Art Decoration International Pvt. Ltd.- www.ottobathware.com) and runs a modern 435,000square feet manufacturing facility in Bandaragama. The company has grown to become; South-Asia’s largest decorative ceramic manufacturer/ exporter, Sri Lanka’s second-largest sanitaryware producer, supplying to over 500 retailers island-wide.
“We’re proud to offer sanitaryware that meets national safety and quality standards. We encourage all Sri Lankans to look beyond the price tag and choose products that are certified, tested, and built to last.” said its Chairman, S. H. B. Karunarathne.
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