April commences on a positive note

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Melstacorp, Hayleys and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.9 bn. 

High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Hayleys. 

Mixed interest was observed in Sunshine Holdings, Access Engineering and Janashakthi Insurance Company whilst retail interest was noted in Hela Apparel Holdings, Browns Investments and Lankem Development rights. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. 

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index lost 0.92%. The share price of Commercial Bank decreased by Rs. 3.75 (2.54%) to close at Rs. 143.75. 

The share price of Sampath Bank lost Rs. 7.00 (5.71%) to close at Rs. 115.50. Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hayleys and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 1.58%. 

The share price of Hayleys moved up by Rs. 6.50 (4.74%) to close at Rs. 143.50. The share price of John Keells Holdings appreciated by Rs. 0.10 (0.50%) to close at Rs. 20.30. Commercial Credit & Finance was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Commercial Credit & Finance recorded a gain of Rs. 3.50 (6.21%) to close at Rs. 59.90.