Indices close on a positive note

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Diesel & Motor Engineering and CIC Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.0 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Softlogic Life Insurance, Hatton National Bank and Hemas Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka Milk Foods, CIC Holdings and Vallibel One whilst retail interest was noted in Agarapatana Plantations, Ceylon Land & Equity and John Keells Holdings. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.17%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs. 3.50 (1.29%) to close at Rs. 275.50.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings)

whilst the sector index increased by 0.62%. The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs. 22.30. CIC Holdings, Lanka Milk Foods and R I L Property were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of CIC Holdings moved up by Rs. 6.10 (7.18%) to close at Rs. 91.00. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods recorded a gain of Rs. 1.70 (4.52%) to close at Rs. 39.30.

The share price of R I L Property appreciated by Rs. 1.10 (9.17%) to close at Rs. 13.10.