ASPI gains 3.2% during the week

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Sampath Bank, Hayleys and Cargills with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.2 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hayleys Fabric, Pan Asia Banking Corporation, Chevron Lubricants. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka Milk Foods, John Keells Holdings and People’s Leasing & Finance whilst retail interest was noted in LVL Energy Fund, Lanka Credit and Business Finance and Browns Investments. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. During the week the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 3.2% and 3.9% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 6.08 Bn.

 Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.17%. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs 0.10 (0.46%) to close at Rs 21.90.

Materials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover whilst the sector index edged down by 0.04%. Hayleys Fabric, Pan Asia Banking Corporation, Lanka Milk Foods and People’s Leasing & Finance were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hayleys Fabric increased by Rs 2.60 (6.30%) to close at Rs 43.90. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation gained Rs 0.40 (0.95%) to close at Rs 42.70. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods recorded a gain of Rs 1.70 (3.25%) to close at Rs 54.00. The share price of People’s Leasing & Finance closed flat at Rs 18.80.