ASPI gains after 12 consecutive days of losses

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.4 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Richard Pieris & Company, John Keells Holdings and Ceylon Hospitals. Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, LOLC Finance and Tess Agro. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 2.07%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs. 1.00 (0.61%) to close at Rs. 164.50. The share price of Commercial Bank gained Rs 2.30 (2.75%) to close at Rs. 86.00.
Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Richard Pieris & Company) whilst the sector index increased by 0.84%. The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs. 167.00. The share price of Richard Pieris & Company recorded a gain of Rs. 0.60 (3.00%) to close at Rs. 20.60.
Ceylon Hospitals was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ceylon Hospitals appreciated by Rs. 13.00 (11.26%) to close at Rs. 128.50.