Indices up for 3rd straight session

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Sampath Bank, Commercial Bank and Ceylon Tobacco Company with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.5 bn. 

Similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Pan Asia Banking Corporation, Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in Nations Trust Bank, Hayleys and LOLC Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, LOLC Finance and UB Finance Company rights. 

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 Hatton National Bank, Nations Trust Bank, Pan Asia Banking Corporation and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index gained 2.02%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs. 2.50 (1.24%) to close at Rs. 204.25. The share price of Nations Trust Bank gained Rs. 7.00 (5.69%) to close at Rs. 130.00. 

The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation moved up by Rs. 0.40 (1.75%) to close at Rs. 23.30. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a gain of Rs. 1.70 (2.17%) to close at Rs. 80.00.

 
Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hayleys) whilst the sector index increased by 1.05%. The share price of Hayleys appreciated by Rs. 0.40 (0.42%) to close at Rs. 95.00.