The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Melstacorp, Hatton National Bank and Richard Pieris & Company with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.9 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in Citizens Development Business Finance, DFCC Bank and Hatton National Bank accounting for 53.0% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Pan Asia Banking Corporation, Access Engineering and ACL Cables whilst retail interest was noted in Citrus Leisure, Cable Solutions and Prime Lands Residencies. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.
Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Citizens Development Business Finance) whilst the sector index gained 1.63%. The share price of Citizens Development Business Finance increased by Rs. 3.75 (1.63%) to close at Rs. 233.50.
The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to DFCC Bank, Hatton National Bank and Pan Asia Banking Corporation) whilst the sector index increased by 0.50%. The share price of DFCC Bank closed flat at Rs. 85.10. The share price of Hatton National Bank moved up by Rs. 3.25 (1.42%) to close at Rs. 232.00. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation recorded a gain of Rs. 1.10 (4.40%) to close at Rs. 26.10.
Access Engineering was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Access Engineering appreciated by Rs. 0.60 (2.33%) to close at Rs.26.30.