Turnover crosses LKR 8 Bn

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Ceylinco Insurance and Sampath Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 8.2 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Ceylinco Insurance, John Keells Holdings and C. W. Mackie. Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, LOLC Holdings and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, Softlogic Capital and Waskaduwa 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, Hatton National Bank and Pan Asia Banking Corporation) whilst the sector index gained 3.42%. The share price of Sampath Bank moved up by Rs 2.50 (2.35%) to close at Rs 108.75. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a gain of Rs 19.25 (7.56%) to close at Rs 274.00. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation appreciated by Rs 1.90 (6.69%) to close at Rs 30.30.

The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 1.21%. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 0.30(1.40%) to close at Rs 21.70. Ceylinco Insurance was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ceylinco Insurance increased by Rs 357.50 (13.30%) to close at Rs 3,045.75