ASPI loses 4.7% during the month

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Hatton National Bank, John Keells Holdings and Ceylon Tobacco Company with the turnover crossing Rs 759 Mn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank and Hatton National Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, John Keells Holdings and Hayleys whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing nonvoting, Browns Investments and LOLC Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

During the month, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 lost 4.7% and 6.3% respectively, whilst recording an average monthly turnover of Rs. 704 Mn. The food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Renuka Agri Foods) whilst the sector index lost 0.14%. The share price of Renuka Agri Foods increased by Rs 0.10 (3.45%) to close at Rs 3.00.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank, Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.25%. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs 0.60 (0.86%) to close at Rs 70.20. The share price of Hatton National Bank moved down by Rs 5.25 (3.03%) to close at Rs 168.00. The share price of Commercial Bank appreciated by Rs 0.70 (0.81%) to close at Rs 86.60.

John Keells Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a loss of Rs 2.75 (1.60%) to close at Rs 169.25.