Indices close in green

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Hayleys and Colombo Dockyard with the turnover crossing Rs. 5.2 bn. 

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, LOLC Holdings and Hemas Holdings. 

Mixed interest was observed in Colombo Dockyard, EML Consultants and Asia Siyaka Commodities whilst retail interest was noted in Tess Agro, UB Finance Company and HVA Foods. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. 

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Colombo Dockyard and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.83%. The share price of Colombo Dockyard increased by Rs. 5.00 (3.40%) to close at Rs. 152.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs. 0.50 (2.26%) to close at Rs. 22.60. 

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to LOLC Holdings and Asia Siyaka Commodities) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.26%. The share price of LOLC Holdings moved down by Rs. 3.50 (0.57%) to close at Rs. 614.25. The share price of Asia Siyaka Commodities appreciated by Rs. 0.60 (5.17%) to close at Rs. 12.20. EML Consultants PLC was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of EML Consultants PLC recorded a gain of Rs. 1.90 (22.89%) to close at Rs. 10.20.