October begins with gains

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Melstacorp, Hemas Holdings and Diesel & Motor Engineering with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.4 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20.

High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, Kandy Hotels Company and Lanka Walltiles. Mixed interest was observed in RIL Property, Galadari Hotels and Lanka Milk Foods whilst retail interest was noted in Lanka Credit and Business Finance, Ambeon Capital and SMB Leasing. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover whilst the sector index gained 0.49%.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.06%. The share price of Commercial Bank gained Rs 1.00 (0.52%) to close at Rs 193.75.

Ambeon Capital, R I L Property, Galadari Hotels and Lanka Milk Foods were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ambeon Capital increased by Rs 2.50 (7.72%) to close at Rs 34.90. The share price of RIL Property moved up by Rs 1.70 (4.66%) to close at Rs 38.20. The share price of Galadari Hotels recorded a gain of Rs 1.50 (7.50%) to close at Rs 21.50. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods appreciated by Rs 3.00 (4.75%) to close at Rs 66.10.