ASPI crosses the 17,000 mark

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Central Finance Company and CIC Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 9.7 bn. 

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Melstacorp, CIC Holdings and John Keells Holdings. 

Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, Ambeon Capital and Browns Investments whilst retail interest was noted in Dialog Axiata, Lanka Credit and Business Finance and SMB Leasing. 

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) whilst the sector index gained 0.38%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs. 11.25 (3.22%) to close at Rs. 360.50. 
Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Melstacorp and Browns Investments) whilst the sector index increased by 0.90%. 

The share price of Melstacorp lost Rs. 0.50 (0.40%) to close at Rs. 123.50. The share price of Browns Investments recorded a gain of Rs. 0.20 (2.33%) to close at Rs. 8.80. 

Ambeon Capital and Dipped Products were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ambeon Capital moved up by Rs. 5.50 (20.52%) to close at Rs. 32.30. The share price of Dipped Products appreciated by Rs. 1.90 (3.27%) to close at Rs. 60.00.