The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) achieved a significant milestone yesterday (27), recording a total market turnover of Rs. 18.7 billion — one of the highest single-day volumes in recent years.
This surge was primarily driven by a landmark transaction involving Hatton National Bank PLC (HNB), following the divestment of a 9.99% stake by Browns Investments PLC. The shares were acquired by Ceylon Steel Corporation Ltd, marking the industrial giant’s strategic entry into the banking sector.
Capital Alliance Securities (Pvt) Ltd acted as the broker for the buyer, Ceylon Steel Corporation, and also facilitated 60% of the trade on behalf of the seller, Browns Investments PLC.
The transaction involved the transfer of 45,317,177 ordinary voting shares of HNB at Rs. 305.00 each through a crossing, generating Rs. 13.82 billion in turnover. Two additional crossings, involving 319,405 shares at Rs. 320.00 each, further increased the day’s turnover from HNB shares to Rs. 14.42 billion.
HNB emerged as the top positive contributor to the All Share Price Index (ASPI) for the day. Its share price closed at Rs. 319.50, up by Rs. 17.25 or 5.71% from the previous day.
The ASPI rose by 161.39 points to close at 16,667.63, while the S&P SL20 Index gained 77.17 points to finish at 4,916.11.
