June ends with ASPI surpassing 18,000 mark for the first time

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Central Finance Company, John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing

Rs. 6.3 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in LB Finance, Access Engineering and Kelani Tyres. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Central Finance Company and Commercial Credit & Finance whilst retail interest was noted in Beruwala Resorts, UB Finance Company and LVL Energy Fund. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

During the month, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 7.0% and 7.4% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 4.91 Bn.

The Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to LB Finance and Central Finance Company) whilst the sector index gained 2.62%. The share price of LB Finance increased by Rs 4.50 (3.59%) to close at Rs 129.75. The share price of Central Finance Company recorded a gain of Rs 18.50 (7.54%) to close at Rs 263.75.

The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Access Engineering and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 1.49%.

The share price of Access Engineering gained Rs 1.50 (3.53%) to close at Rs 44.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs 0.50 (2.26%) to close at Rs 22.60.

Sampath Bank was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Sampath Bank appreciated by Rs 2.25 (%) to close at Rs 126.50.