Sri Lanka, Feb. 17 -- The All Share Price Index (ASPI) of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed at 17,156.05 today (17) after gaining by 219.36 points (1.30%). The turnover was Rs.5.4 billion.

The Colombo Stock Exchange saw a day of positive sentiment and heightened momentum, driven by improved investor confidence following the unveiling of the new government's maiden budget. Investor focus was primarily on banking sector and blue-chip stocks.

With increased participation from high-net-worth investors, the ASPI closed at 17,156, gaining 219 points, a 1.30% increase from the previous day. The key contributors to the index's gains were CINS, MELS, NDB, SAMP, and HAYL.

Notable activity was seen in CFVF and DIAL following a dividend anno...