Crossings boost turnover to Rs. 4.3 bn

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Richard Pieris & Company and C T Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.2 bn.

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in Hatton National Bank, Overseas Realty and LOLC Holdings accounting for 40.6% of the turnover. 

Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, Browns Investments and John Keells Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Waskaduwa Beach Resort, SMB Leasing and Maharaja Foods. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.58%. 

The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs 0.75 (0.33%) to close at Rs. 230.75. The share price of Sampath Bank moved up by Rs. 0.40 (0.45%) to close at Rs. 89.50. 

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Browns Investments) whilst the sector index increased by 1.23%. The share price of Browns Investments recorded a gain of Rs. 0.10 (1.67%) to close at Rs. 6.10. 

Overseas Realty and John Keells Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Overseas Realty gained Rs. 0.30 (1.60%) to close at Rs. 19.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings appreciated by Rs. 0.50 (2.39%) to close at Rs. 21.40.