ASPI surpassed the 20,000 mark for the first time

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Commercial Bank, DFCC Bank and LOLC Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 9.5 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in LOLC Holdings, Sampath Bank, and C T Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Sierra Cables, Hatton National Bank and Access Engineering, whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing nonvoting, Industrial Asphalts and SMB Leasing. 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 2.0% and 1.2% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 6.36 Bn.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 2.78%. The share price of Hatton National Bank gained Rs 1.75 (0.46%) to close at Rs 379.75. The share price of Commercial Bank appreciated by Rs 8.75 (5.07%) to close at Rs 181.25.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sierra Cables and Access Engineering) whilst the sector index increased by 0.71%. The share price of Sierra Cables increased by Rs 1.90 (11.24%) to close at Rs 18.80. The share price of Access Engineering moved down by Rs 0.90 (1.51%) to close at Rs 58.90. 

LOLC Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of LOLC Holdings recorded a gain of Rs 29.25 (5.30%) to close at Rs 581.00.