Indices bounce back

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylinco Holdings, LOLC Holdings and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.6 Bn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Central Industries, Commercial Bank and Chevron Lubricants. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank and Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, Lanka Credit and Business Finance and Waskaduwa Beach Resort. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.96%. The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs 0.50 (2.28%) to close at Rs 21.40.
The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 0.34%. The share price of Commercial Bank moved up by Rs 1.00 (0.69%) to close at Rs 146.00. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a gain of Rs 0.50 (0.41%) to close at Rs 121.00.

Chevron Lubricants and Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Chevron Lubricants decreased by Rs 1.25 (0.83%) to close at Rs 150.25. The share price of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings appreciated by Rs 3.50 (4.35%) to close at Rs 84.00.