Foreign buying continues

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Cargills, Melstacorp and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.5 bn. 

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Dialog Axiata and Commercial Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in R I L Property, Hemas Holdings and Vallibel One whilst retail interest was noted in LVL Energy Fund, Browns Investments and LOLC Finance. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Hemas Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 1.05%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs. 0.30 (1.42%) to close at Rs. 21.50. The share price of Hemas Holdings moved up by Rs. 0.70 (2.89%) to close at Rs. 24.90. 

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover whilst the sector index increased by 1.29%. Dialog Axiata, R I L Property and Sunshine Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. 

The share price of Dialog Axiata gained Rs. 0.70 (4.43%) to close at Rs. 16.50. The share price of R I L Property recorded a gain of Rs. 1.00 (5.81%) to close at Rs. 18.20. The share price of Sunshine Holdings appreciated by Rs. 0.40 (1.73%) to close at Rs. 23.50.