Positive momentum continues, with turnover surpassing LKR 9 Bn

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 9.4 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Sampath Bank, Asia Asset Finance and Ceylinco Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Tokyo Cement Company and Pan Asia Banking Corporation whilst retail interest was noted in First Capital, Kapruka Holdings and Vallibel Power Erathna. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank, Seylan Bank nonvoting and Pan Asia Banking Corporation) whilst the sector index gained 3.26%. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs 5.50 (4.17%) to close at Rs 137.50. The share price of Seylan Bank nonvoting moved up by Rs 3.40 (5.61%) to close at Rs 64.00. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation appreciated by Rs 1.50 (3.08%) to close at Rs 50.20.

The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 2.84%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 1.00 (4.15%) to close at Rs 25.10.

Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting recorded a gain of Rs 1.90 (2.67%) to close at Rs 73.00.