Indices close in green

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Melstacorp, Aitken Spence and LOLC Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 899 mn. 

Similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation were noted in Nations Trust Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in Hayleys, Dipped Products and Lanka Milk Foods whilst retail interest was noted in Dialog Axiata, LOLC Finance and Browns Investments. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. The food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (Lanka Milk Foods) whilst the sector index gained 0.63%. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods recorded a gain of Rs. 0.90 (2.94%) to close at Rs. 31.50. 

The capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (Hayleys) whilst the sector index increased by 0.22%. The share price of Hayleys increased by Rs. 0.60 (0.64%) to close at Rs. 94.60. Dipped Products, Dialog Axiata and Nations Trust Bank were also included among the top turnover contributors. 
The share price of Dipped Products gained Rs. 0.90 (2.65%) to close at Rs. 34.90. The share price of Dialog Axiata closed flat at Rs. 11.10. The share price of Nations Trust Bank appreciated by Rs. 0.25 (0.20%) to close at Rs. 122.50. Lanka IOC and Vidullanka Plc declared their dividends of Rs. 5.00 and Rs. 0.30 respectively.