Turnover crosses LKR 10 Bn

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank voting & nonvoting and National Development Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 10.6 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, National Development Bank and John Keells Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Browns Investments, Hatton National Bank and LOLC Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Waskaduwa Beach Resort, Lanka Credit and Business Finance and Cable Solutions. 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, Commercial Bank and National Development Bank) whilst the sector index gained 2.53%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs 14.50 (4.33%) to close at Rs 349.25. The share price of Commercial Bank moved up by Rs 2.25 (1.53%) to close at Rs 149.75. The share price of National Development Bank recorded a gain of Rs 7.00 (5.59%) to close at Rs 132.25.

The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Browns Investments) whilst the sector index increased by 1.48%. The share price of Browns Investments gained Rs 0.70 (8.86%) to close at Rs 8.60.

John Keells Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings appreciated by Rs 0.30 (1.27%) to close at Rs 24.00.