ASPI crosses 10,000 mark; Turnover reaches Rs. 7 bn

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 7.2 bn. 
High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Melstacorp and Commercial Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, Nations Trust Bank and Hayleys whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, HNB Finance voting & nonvoting and LOLC Finance. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Nations Trust Bank) whilst the sector index gained 15.42%. The share price of Commercial Bank increased by Rs. 12.80 (18.80%) to close at Rs. 80.90. The share price of Nations Trust Bank appreciated by Rs. 10.30 (14.57%) to close at Rs. 81.00.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 4.75%. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs. 5.50 (3.67%) to close at Rs. 155.50. Melstacorp and Browns Investments were also included among the top turnover contributors. 
The share price of Melstacorp moved up by Rs. 4.90 (8.38%) to close at Rs. 63.40. The share price of Browns Investments recorded a gain of Rs. 0.70 (12.07%) to close at Rs. 6.50. Furthermore, Carson Cumberbatch announced its interim dividend of Rs/ 2.10 per share.