Turnover crosses LKR 5 Bn

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Aitken Spence, Chevron Lubricants and Lanka IOC with the turnover crossing Rs 5.3 Bn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Watawala Plantations, Citizens Development Business Finance and Commercial Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka IOC, Expolanka Holdings and John Keells Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, SMB Leasing and LOLC Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

Energy sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Lanka IOC) whilst the sector index gained 4.89%. The share price of Lanka IOC increased by Rs 7.50 (5.71%) to close at Rs 138.75.
Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Watawala Plantations) whilst the sector index increased by 0.14%. The share price of Watawala Plantations gained Rs 6.80 (8.50%) to close at Rs 86.80.

Expolanka Holdings, John Keells Holdings and Citizens Development Business Finance were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Expolanka Holdings moved down by Rs 7.75 (3.82%) to close at Rs 195.25. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a gain of Rs 0.25 (0.21%) to close at Rs 119.25. The share price of Citizens Development Business Finance appreciated by Rs 5.25 (3%) to close at Rs 180.00.