ASPI gains 1.6% during the week

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hayleys, Colombo Dockyard and Dialog Axiata with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.0 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Sarvodaya Development Finance, Ceylon Cold Stores and Commercial Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Colombo Dockyard, Haycarb and Bairaha Farms whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, SMB Leasing and Citrus Leisure. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

During the week, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 1.6% and 1.2% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 4.09 Bn.

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Colombo Dockyard) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.02%. The share price of Colombo Dockyard increased by Rs 8.50 (6.31%) to close at Rs 143.25.

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sarvodaya Development Finance and LOLC Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.71%. The share price of Sarvodaya Development Finance moved up by Rs 2.00 (4.91%) to close at Rs 42.70. The share price of LOLC Holdings declined by Rs 1.50 (0.26%) to close at Rs 574.25.

Commercial Bank and Ceylon Cold Stores were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Commercial Bank gained Rs 0.50 (0.24%) to close at Rs 210.50. The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores recorded a gain of Rs 0.50 (0.40%) to close at Rs 126.00.