Week ends with gains

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Sampath Bank, Richard Pieris & Company and Aitken Spence with the turnover crossing Rs 403 Mn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Sunshine Holdings and Commercial Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Access Engineering, Sampath Bank and Ceylon Cold Stores whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, SMB Leasing and LVL Energy Fund .Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

During the week, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 lost 1.2% and 2.0% respectively, whilst recording an average weekly turnover of Rs. 560 Mn.

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Access Engineering) whilst the sector index gained 0.67%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 0.25 (0.14%) to close at Rs 179.75. The share price of Access Engineering moved up by Rs 0.80 (3.81%) to close at Rs 21.80.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sunshine Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.20%. The share price of Sunshine Holdings gained Rs 0.40 (0.67%) to close at Rs 60.00.

Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Commercial Bank edged down of Rs 0.10 (0.11%) to close at Rs 89.00. The share price of Sampath Bank appreciated by Rs 1.20 (1.61%) to close at Rs 75.70.