Indices gain during the week

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Bukit Darah, Central Finance Company and National Development Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 2.4 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged down. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, LB Finance and Commercial Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Central Finance Company, Ceylon Cold Stores and R I L Property whilst retail interest was noted in Nation Lanka Finance, SMB Leasing nonvoting and Agstar. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.During the week the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 1.7% and 1.0% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of  Rs. 3.38 Bn.

Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Central Finance Company and LB Finance) whilst the sector index gained 1.48%. The share price of Central Finance Company moved up by Rs 4.75 (3.79%) to close at Rs 130.00. The share price of LB Finance recorded a gain of Rs 1.30 (1.82%) to close at Rs 72.80.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.88%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 3.75 (1.79%) to close at Rs 205.50.

Ceylon Cold Stores and R I L Property were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores gained Rs 2.10 (3.31%) to close at Rs 65.50. The share price of R I L Property appreciated by Rs 0.80 (10.67%) to close at Rs 8.30.