August begins with gains

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 7.3 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor par ticipation was noted in Commercial Bank, Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka and Pan Asia Banking Corporation. Mixed interest was observed in Dipped Products, John Keells Holdings and DFCC Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Co-Operative Insurance Company, Softlogic Finance and Cargills Bank. 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 2.3% and 2.4% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 6.42 Bn.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Pan Asia Banking Corporation and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 2.90%. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation gained Rs 2.90 (5.37%) to close at Rs 56.90. The share price of Commercial Bank moved up by Rs 4.25 (2.50%) to close at Rs 174.00.

Materials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Dipped Products) whilst the sector index increased by 0.84%. The share price of Dipped Products increased by Rs 2.90 (4.75%) to close at Rs 63.90. John Keells Holdings and Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka were also included amongst the top turnover contributors.

The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a gain of Rs 0.70 (2.93%) to close at Rs 24.60. The share price of Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka appreciated by Rs 5.90 (6.98%) to close at Rs 90.40.