Positive momentum continues

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as CT Holdings, Hemas Holdings and Nations Trust Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.8 bn. 

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Sunshine Holdings, Overseas Realty and Hatton National Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in HNB Finance, Hemas Holdings and Dipped Products whilst retail interest was noted in Nation Lanka Finance, UB Finance Company and SMB Leasing. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. The Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to HNB Finance and People’s Leasing & Finance) whilst the sector index gained 1.85%. The share price of HNB Finance gained Rs. 0.70 (10.61%) to close at Rs. 7.30. The share price of People’s Leasing & Finance appreciated by Rs. 1.30 (6.74%) to close at Rs. 20.60. 

The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sunshine Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 1.17%. The share price of Sunshine Holdings increased by Rs. 1.90 (7.66%) to close at Rs. 26.70. 

Hemas Holdings and Dipped Products were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hemas Holdings moved up by Rs. 1.10 (3.79%) to close at Rs. 30.10. The share price of Dipped Products recorded a gain of Rs. 0.70 (1.18%) to close at Rs. 59.90.