Indices close in green

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Nawaloka Hospitals, Central Finance Company and Cargills with the turnover crossing Rs. 3.3 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Samson International, Hatton National Bank and Melstacorp. Mixed interest was observed in UB Finance Company, Sierra Cables and Lanka Credit and Business Finance whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, Tess Agro 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 Sierra Cables) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.07%. The share price of Sierra Cables moved down by Rs 0.70 (1.90%) to close at Rs 36.10.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Lanka Milk Foods) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.73%. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods recorded a gain of Rs 0.30 (0.39%) to close at Rs 76.60. 

Samson International, UB Finance PLC and Lanka Credit and Business Finance Limited were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Samson International increased by Rs 86.75 (24.95%) to close at Rs 434.50. The share price of UB Finance PLC gained Rs 0.10 (3.23%) to close at Rs 3.20. The share price of Lanka Credit and Business Finance Limited appreciated by Rs 0.90 (10.84%) to close at Rs 9.20.