ASPI loses 0.9% during the week

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylon Tobacco Company, John Keells Holdings and Dipped Products with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.0 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged down. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, Overseas Realty and Central Finance Company. Mixed interest was observed in Luminex, HVA Foods and Ceylon Land & Equity whilst retail interest was noted in Tess Agro, Tess Agro nonvoting and Browns Investments. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

During the week, both the ASPI and the S&P SL20 lost 0.9%, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 3.57 Bn.

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Luminex) whilst the sector index gained 0.33%. The share price of Luminex gained Rs 2.00 (21.05%) to close at Rs 11.50.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to HVA Foods) whilst the sector index increased by 0.79%. The share price of HVA Foods closed flat at Rs 8.40.

Commercial Bank, Ceylon Land & Equity and Overseas Realty were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Commercial Bank closed flat at Rs 210.00. The share price of Ceylon Land & Equity recorded a gain of Rs 0.40 (3.64%) to close at Rs 11.40. The share price of Overseas Realty appreciated by Rs 0.10 (0.21%) to close at Rs 48.00.