Sri Lanka, May 18 -- The Colombo Stock Exchange commenced the week on a sharply negative note, as intensified geopolitical tensions and continued uncertainty surrounding global economic conditions triggered broad-based selling pressure across the market. Investor sentiment remained largely bearish throughout the session, with both retail and institutional participants adopting a cautious stance amid rising external risks.

The ASPI remained firmly in negative territory throughout the day, reflecting heightened risk aversion and profit-taking activity across most sectors. Concerns over external market pressures and the weakening global outlook weighed heavily on market confidence, resulting in widespread declines and subdued investor parti...