ASPI edges up

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Expolanka Holdings, SMB Leasing nonvoting and The Lanka Hospitals Corporation with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.2 billion. 
Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings and Hayleys. 

Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Lanka IOC and Melstacorp whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, SMB Leasing nonvoting and LOLC Finance. 
Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Transportation sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Expolanka Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 11.12%. 

The share price of Expolanka Holdings increased by Rs. 16.75 (11.15%) to close at Rs. 167.00. Energy sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Lanka IOC) whilst the sector index decreased by 4.08%. The share price of Lanka IOC lost Rs. 8.50 (4.63%) to close at Rs. 175.25. 

Keells Holdings, Melstacorp and Browns Investments were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved down by Rs. 1.50 (1.13%) to close at Rs. 131.00. The share price of Melstacorp recorded a loss of Rs. 1.00 (2.17%) to close at Rs. 45.00. The share price of Browns Investments closed flat at Rs. 6.00.