ASPI gains 4.3% during the week

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylinco Insurance, Melstacorp and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.1 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings, Hatton National Bank and Melstacorp. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka Milk Foods, Alumex and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, HNB Finance and Co-Operative Insurance Company. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closingas net buyers.
During the week, the ASPI and the S&P SL 20 gained 4.3% and 4.5% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 5.66 Bn.
The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hemas Holdings and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.68%. The share price of Hemas Holdings increased by Rs 1.30 (1.43%) to close at Rs 92.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs 21.40.
The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 1.65%. The share price of Hatton National Bank gained Rs 5.75 (2.31%) to close at Rs 254.75.
Lanka Milk Foods and Alumex were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods moved up by Rs 2.50 (6.93%) to close at Rs 38.60. The share price of Alumex appreciated by Rs 1.10 (8.40%) to close at Rs 14.20.