Financial sector drives market turnover

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Commercial Bank, Lanka IOC and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.8 billion. 
Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings and Lanka IOC. 
Mixed interest was observed in Softlogic Capital, Softlogic Life Insurance and Capital Alliance whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing nonvoting, Browns Investments and Ambeon Capital. 
Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Softlogic Life Insurance) whilst the sector index lost 2.29%. 

The share price of Softlogic Life Insurance moved up by Rs. 1.60 (1.69%) to close at Rs. 96.50. Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Softlogic Capital, Capital Alliance and First Capital Treasuries) whilst the sector index increased by 0.14%. 
The share price of Softlogic Capital increased by Rs. 0.90 (7.50%) to close at Rs. 12.90. The share price of Capital Alliance recorded a gain of Rs. 5.10 (23.61%) to close at Rs. 26.70. 
The share price of First Capital Treasuries appreciated by Rs. 1.20 (4.76%) to close at Rs. 26.40. Lanka IOC was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka IOC gained Rs. 7.25 (3.56%) to close at Rs. 210.75.