ASPI bounces back

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Melstacorp and Dipped Products with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.1 bn. 

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged down. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Softlogic Finance, Commercial Bank and LB Finance. 

Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Dipped Products and Lanka Milk Foods whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing nonvoting, Dialog Axiata and SMB Leasing. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. 

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.92%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs. 0.30 (1.42%) to close at Rs. 21.50. 

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.69%. The share price of Commercial Bank lost Rs. 1.00 (0.87%) to close at Rs. 114.50. 

The share price of Sampath Bank declined by Rs. 1.00 (1.12%) to close at Rs. 88.50. Dipped Products and Lanka Milk Foods were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. 

The share price of Dipped Products moved up by Rs. 2.40 (6.22%) to close at Rs. 41.00. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods recorded a gain of Rs. 1.00 (3.13%) to close at Rs. 33.00. 

Furthermore, Commercial Development Company announced its interim dividend of Rs. 3.00 per share.