ASPI gains 2.1% during the week

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylinco Holdings, Commercial Bank and DFCC Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 5.0 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hatton National Bank, Access Engineering and Sampath Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Royal Ceramics, Ambeon Capital and Sunshine Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in HVA Foods, Cargills Bank and Beruwala Resorts. 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 2.1% and 3.3% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 9.07 Bn.

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Access Engineering and Royal

Ceramics) whilst the sector index gained 0.56%. The share price of Access Engineering increased by Rs 0.30 (0.53%) to close at Rs 57.30. The share price of Royal Ceramics gained Rs 1.00 (2.27%) to close at Rs 45.00.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.67%. The share price of Hatton National Bank moved down by Rs 0.50 (0.12%) to close at Rs 404.00. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a loss of Rs 0.25 (0.17%) to close at Rs 145.75.

Ambeon Capital was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ambeon Capital declined by Rs 0.30 (0.97%) to close at Rs 30.70.