Indices continue to close in green

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Expolanka Holdings, Sampath Bank and LOLC Finance with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.5 bn. 
Similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Sampath Bank, John Keells Holdings, and Hatton National Bank. 
Mixed interest was observed in CIC Holdings, Softlogic Capital and Hayleys whilst retail interest was noted in Blue Diamonds Jewellery Worldwide, LOLC Finance and Browns Investments. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. 

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.82%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs. 2.75 (2.12%) to close at Rs. 132.75. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs. 1.00 (1.96%) to close at Rs. 52.10. 
Materials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to CIC Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.54%. The share price of CIC Holdings recorded a gain of Rs. 1.20 (2.00%) to close at Rs. 61.20. 

LOLC Finance and Softlogic Capital were also included among the top turnover contributors. The share price of LOLC Finance moved up by Rs. 0.50 (9.09%) to close at Rs. 6.00. The share price of Softlogic Capital appreciated by Rs. 1.00 (11.76%) to close at Rs. 9.50. Furthermore, Ceylon Beverage Holdings announced its interim dividend of 
Rs. 28.84 per share.