Crossings boost turnover

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylon Tobacco Company, Central Finance Company and Hemas Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 7.3 bn. 

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Citizens Development Business Finance, LOLC Holdings, and Central Finance Company.

Mixed interest was observed in Hemas Holdings, Royal Ceramics and Swisstek whilst retail interest was noted in Nation Lanka Finance, HNB Finance and Cargills Bank.

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. The Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Citizens Development Business Finance, Central Finance Company and LOLC Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 1.60%. 

The share price of Citizens Development Business Finance increased by Rs. 21.25 (8.39%) to close at Rs. 274.50. The share price of Central Finance Company gained Rs. 12.25 (5.51%) to close at Rs. 234.50. The share price of LOLC Holdings moved up by Rs. 4.50 (0.73%) to close at Rs. 623.25. 

The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics and Hemas Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 1.22%. The share price of Royal Ceramics recorded a gain of Rs. 1.50 (3.90%) to close at Rs. 40.00. The share price of Hemas Holdings appreciated by Rs. 1.20 (4.21%) to close at Rs. 29.70.