Indices continue to close in green, crossing Rs 4.9 Bn turnover

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hayleys, Richard Pieris & Company and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 4.9 Bn. Similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in National Development Bank, John Keells
Holdings, and Expolanka Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Commercial Bank, Hayleys and Capital
Alliance whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, LOLC Finance and SMB Finance non-voting.
Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.
The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and National Development Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.12%.
The share price of Commercial Bank increased by Rs 0.40 (0.49%) to close at Rs 81.30. The share price of National Development Bank recorded a gain of Rs 2.80 (4.88%) to close at Rs 60.20.
Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Hayleys) whilst the sector index increased by 2.35%. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 3.50 (2.25%) to close at Rs 159.00. The share price of Hayleys appreciated by Rs 4.70 (5.58%) to close at Rs 88.90.
Expolanka Holdings was also included among the top turnover contributors. The share price of Expolanka Holdings moved up by Rs 4.00 (2.80%) to close at Rs146.75.