Indices edge up

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Royal Ceramics, National Development Bank and Asian Hotels & Properties with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.0 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Commercial Bank and Sierra Cables. Mixed interest was observed in Nations Trust Bank , Hatton National Bank and Ceylon Grain Elevators whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, Dialog Axiata and Browns Investments. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.
The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank, Nations Trust Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.07%. The share price of Commercial Bank decreased by Rs 0.40 (0.50%) to close at Rs 80.00. The share price of Nations Trust Bank moved down by Rs 0.50 (0.47%) to close at Rs 105.00. The share price of Hatton National Bank appreciated by Rs 0.50 (0.32%) to close at Rs 157.50.
The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Sierra Cables) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.11%. The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs 161.00. The share price of Sierra Cables recorded a loss of Rs 0.10 (1.01%) to close at Rs 9.80.