Month ends with gains

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Chevron Lubricants, Hatton National Bank and Vallibel One with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.4 bn. 
Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Lanka IOC, John Keells Holdings and Aitken Spence. 

Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, Expolanka Holdings and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Union Bank, Softlogic Capital and SMB Leasing. 
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 3.6% and 1.2% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 1.87 bn. 

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.06%. The share price of Hatton National Bank decreased by Rs. 2.75 (2.55%) to close at Rs. 105.00. The share price of Sampath Bank appreciated by Rs. 2.10 (4.23%) to close at Rs. 51.70. 

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.36%. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved down by Rs. 0.75 (0.55%) to close at Rs. 135.00. 

Lanka IOC and Expolanka Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka IOC lost Rs. 0.25 (0.13%) to close at Rs. 198.00. The share price of Expolanka Holdings recorded a loss of Rs. 1.50 (0.83%) to close at Rs. 178.50.