Turnover crosses Rs. 4bn

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Sampath Bank and National Development Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.3bn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in East West Properties, Hatton National Bank and Sampath Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in Commercial Bank, Browns Investments and John Keells Holdings Rights whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, Dialog Axiata and Softlogic Capital. 

Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers. The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank, Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.92%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs 9.50 (4.99%) to close at Rs 199.75. The share price of Sampath Bank moved up by Rs 0.60 (0.78%) to close at Rs 78.00. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a loss of Rs 0.50 (0.50%) to close at Rs 99.10.

The Real Estate sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to East West Properties) whilst the sector index decreased by 2.31%. The share price of East West Properties gained Rs 0.10 (0.94%) to close at Rs 10.70. Browns Investments was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Browns Investments closed flat at Rs 5.90.