Week commences on a positive note

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Commercial Bank, Melstacorp and LOLC Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 337 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Kelani Tyres and Ceylinco Insurance. Mixed interest was observed in Access Engineering, Commercial Bank and John Keells Holdings whilst retail

interest was noted in Beruwala Resorts, Marawila Resorts 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) whilst the sector index gained 0.69%. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a gain of Rs 2.40 (2.70%) to close at Rs 91.40.
Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Access Engineering and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.78%. The share price of Access Engineering closed flat at Rs 21.80. The share price of John Keells Holdings declined by Rs 1.75 (0.97%) to close at Rs 178.00.

Kelani Tyres and Ceylinco Insurance were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Kelani Tyres closed flat at Rs 75.00. The share price of Ceylinco Insurance edged up by Rs 1.00 (0.04%) to close at Rs 2,501.00.