ASPI gains after 5 consecutive days of losses

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Melstacorp, Richard Pieris & Company and Cargills with the turnover crossing Rs. 540 mn.

A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Dialog Axiata. 

Mixed interest was observed in National Development Bank, John Keells Holdings and Hayleys whilst retail interest was noted in Nation Lanka Finance, SMB Leasing and Industrial Asphalts. 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 the National Development Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.32%. The share price of National Development Bank gained Rs. 0.40 (0.57%) to close at Rs. 71.00. 

The share price of Hatton National Bank declined by Rs. 0.25 (0.13%) to close at Rs. 188.00. The food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover whilst the sector index increased by 0.76%. 

Dialog Axiata, John Keells Holdings and Hayleys were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dialog Axiata increased by Rs. 0.10 (1.08%) to close at Rs. 9.40. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved down by Rs. 0.75 (0.39%) to close at Rs 190.50. The share price of Hayleys recorded a gain of Rs. 0.75 (0.75%) to close at Rs. 100.75.