Indices gain 2% during the month

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and C T Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 1.3 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Melstacorp, Nations Trust Bank, and Hayleys. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, C T Holdings and Distilleries whilst retail interest was noted in UB Finance Company, Browns Investments and Hayleys Fabric. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

During the month the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 2.0% and 2.1% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 1.41 Bn. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.39%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 0.25 (0.13%) to close at Rs 192.75.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Melstacorp) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.05%. The share price of Melstacorp declined by Rs 0.60 (0.69%) to close at Rs 86.10. C T Holdings, Hayleys Fabric and Nations Trust Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of C T Holdings gained Rs 17.25 (7.57%) to close at Rs 245.00. The share price of Hayleys Fabric moved up by Rs 2.00 (4.35%) to close at Rs 48.00. The share price of Nations Trust Bank recorded a gain of Rs 1.25 (1.15%) to close at Rs 109.75.
Furthermore, Talawakelle Tea Estates, Kelani Valley Plantations and Haycarb announced their dividends of Rs. 3.50, Rs. 1.00 and Rs. 2.00 per share respectively.