Indices bounce back

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Melstacorp, Ceylinco Insurance and Sampath Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 801 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20.
Crossings were witnessed in Agalawatte Plantations and Sampath Bank accounting for 46.6% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Browns Investments, John Keells Holdings and National Development Bank whilst retail
interest was noted in Blue Diamonds Jewellery Worldwide, LOLC Finance and Nation Lanka Finance. Foreign
participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Agalawatte Plantations and Browns Investments) whilst the sector index lost 0.35%. The share price of Agalawatte Plantations decreased by Rs 0.20 (0.60%) to close at Rs 33.00. The share price of Browns Investments gained Rs 0.20 (3.64%) to close at Rs 5.70.
Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.23%. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a loss of Rs 1.00 (0.50%) to close at Rs 199.00.
LB Finance and Sampath Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of LB Finance moved up by Rs 0.50 (0.74%) to close at Rs 68.50. The share
price of Sampath Bank appreciated by Rs 1.10 (1.44%) to close at Rs 77.40.