ASPI gains 2.3% during the week

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Hayleys and Sierra Cables with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.5 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings and Aitken Spence. Mixed interest was observed in Sierra Cables, LOLC Holdings and Asia Asset Finance whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, UB Finance Company and Lanka Credit and Business Finance. 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 2.3% and 2.1% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 6.05 Bn.

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sierra Cables and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 1.04%. The share price of Sierra Cables increased by Rs 3.30 (10.61%) to close at Rs 34.40. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 0.30 (1.33%) to close at Rs 22.80.

The Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to LOLC Holdings and Asia Asset Finance) whilst the sector index increased by 0.80%. The share price of LOLC Holdings moved up by Rs 2.75 (0.49%) to close at Rs 563.75. The share price of Asia Asset Finance recorded a gain of Rs 4.90 (9.80%) to close at Rs 54.90.

Cargills Bank was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Cargills Bank appreciated by Rs 0.40 (4.35%) to close at Rs 9.60.