Indices close on a positive note

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.3 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Hayleys. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Hatton National Bank and Distilleries whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, LOLC Finance and Hikkaduwa Beach Resort. 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 Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 1.29%. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs 1.10 (1.33%) to close at Rs 84.00. The share price of Commercial Bank moved up by Rs 2.00 (1.85%) to close at Rs 110.25.

The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings, Hayleys and Hemas Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 1.31%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 4.00 (2.01%) to close at Rs 203.00. The share price of Hayleys recorded a gain of Rs 1.00 (0.98%) to close at Rs 103.00. The share price of Hemas Holdings appreciated by Rs 0.50 (0.62%) to close at 
Rs 81.00.