Week commences with foreign buying

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as LOLC Finance, National Development Bank and Browns Investments with the turnover crossing Rs. 580 mn. 

A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Melstacorp and Teejay Lanka. 

Mixed interest was observed in Ceylon Tobacco Company, Aitken Spence and Hatton National Bank whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing nonvoting, LOLC Finance and Dialog Axiata.

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Aitken Spence) whilst the sector index gained 0.53%. 

The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs. 2.00 (1.11%) to close at Rs. 182.50. The share price of Aitken Spence moved up by Rs. 2.00 (1.71%) to close at Rs. 119.00. 

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.31%. 

The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a gain of Rs. 0.25 (0.14%) to close at Rs. 184.75. The share price of Sampath Bank declined by Rs. 0.20 (0.26%) to close at Rs. 77.00. Ceylon Tobacco Company was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company gained Rs. 7.25 (0.58%) to close at Rs. 1,254.75.