Indices close in green

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylinco Holdings, Cargills and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.6 bn.

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

Mixed interest was observed in R I L Property, Lankem Developments and Distilleries whilst retail interest was noted in Nation Lanka Finance, Lanka Credit and Business Finance and Softlogic Capital. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. 

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Distilleries and Lankem Developments) whilst the sector index gained 0.51%. The share price of Distilleries recorded a gain of Rs. 2.20 (5.56%) to close at Rs. 41.80. The share price of Lankem Developments appreciated by Rs. 0.60 (2.74%) to close at Rs. 22.50. 

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Union Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 0.39%. 

The share price of Union Bank gained Rs. 0.20 (1.94%) to close at Rs. 10.50. R I L Property and John Keells Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of R I L Property increased by Rs. 0.50 (3.05%) to close at Rs. 16.90. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs. 0.10 (0.50%) to close at Rs. 20.20.