Indices close on a positive note

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.1 bn.

High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings, Commercial Bank and Lankem Developments. 

Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, John Keells Holdings and Access Engineering whilst retail interest was noted in Marawila Resorts, LOLC Finance and Beruwala Resorts. 

Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers. The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 1.22%. 

The share price of Sampath Bank increased by Rs. 1.00 (1.09%) to close at Rs. 93.00. The share price of Commercial Bank moved up by Rs. 1.50 (1.25%) to close at Rs. 121.50. Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings, Hemas Holdings and Access Engineering) whilst the sector index increased by 2.03%. 

The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs. 0.60 (3.13%) to close at Rs. 19.80. The share price of Hemas Holdings recorded a loss of Rs. 0.50 (0.61%) to close at Rs. 82.00. The share price of Access Engineering appreciated by Rs. 0.60 (2.27%) to close at Rs. 27.00.