Indices bounce back

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Citizens Development Business Finance, Dialog Axiata and Prime Lands Residencies with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.0 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Dialog Axiata, Melstacorp and Hayleys. Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, Access Engineering and Prime Lands Residencies whilst retail interest was noted in Asia Siyaka Commodities, Merchant Bank of Sri Lanka & Finance and Softlogic Capital. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Asia Siyaka Commodities and Citizens Development Business Finance nonvoting) whilst the sector index gained 0.85%. The share price of Asia Siyaka Commodities recorded a gain of Rs 0.60 (3.35%) to close at Rs 18.50. The share price of Citizens Development Business Finance nonvoting appreciated by Rs 17.25 (5.77%) to close at Rs 316.00.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Access Engineering) whilst the sector index increased by 1.01%. The share price of Access Engineering increased by Rs 1.00 (1.31%) to close at Rs 77.30.

Hatton National Bank and Prime Lands Residencies were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hatton National Bank edged down by Rs 0.50 (0.11%) to close at Rs 455.50. The share price of Prime Lands Residencies moved up by Rs 5.00 (9.23%) to close at Rs 59.20.