ASPI edges down during April

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Sampath Bank and C T Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.3 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Printcare, Lanka IOC and Central Finance Company.

Mixed interest was observed in Sunshine Holdings, John Keells Holdings and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Nation Lanka Finance, Panasian Power and Marawila Resorts. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

During April, both the ASPI and S&P SL20 lost 0.09% and 1.9% respectively, while recording an average turnover of LKR 2.54 Bn.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sunshine Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.23%. The share price of Sunshine Holdings closed flat at Rs 23.30.

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Central Finance Company) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.66%. The share price of Central Finance Company declined by Rs 1.75 (0.88%) to close at Rs 196.25.

Printcare, John Keells Holdings and Lanka IOC were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Printcare gained Rs 4.30 (6.97%) to close at Rs 66.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved down by Rs 0.10 (0.48%) to close at Rs 20.70. The share price of Lanka IOC recorded a gain of Rs 0.25 (0.19%) to close at Rs 129.00.