August commences with gains

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank and Hayleys Fabric with the turnover crossing Rs. 756 mn. 

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hayleys Fabric, Teejay Lanka and Sampath Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Capital Alliance and Citizens Development Business Finance whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, Dialog Axiata and LOLC Finance. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 1.12%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs. 3.50 (2.04%) to close at Rs. 175.25. 

Consumer Durables & Apparel sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Teejay Lanka and Hayleys Fabric) whilst the sector index increased by 1.82%. The share price of Teejay Lanka gained Rs. 0.50 (1.25%) to close at Rs. 40.50. The share price of Hayleys Fabric moved up by Rs. 2.00 (4.35%) to close at Rs. 48.00. 

Sampath Bank and Capital Alliance were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a gain of Rs. 0.60 (0.80%) to close at Rs. 75.50. The share price of Capital Alliance appreciated by Rs. 1.90 (4.47%) to close at Rs. 44.40.