Positive momentum continues

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Sampath Bank, Ceylon Tobacco Company and Central Finance Company with the turnover crossing Rs. 9.2bn. 

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Ceylon Hotels Corporation, Union Bank and Hemas Holdings. 

Mixed interest was observed in Jetwing Symphony, UB Finance Company and Browns Investments whilst retail interest was noted in Nations Trust Bank , Dipped Products and People’s Leasing & Finance. 

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 Nations Trust Bank and Union Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.63%. The share price of Nations Trust Bank lost Rs. 5.50 (1.75%) to close at Rs. 309.50. The share price of Union Bank recorded a gain of Rs. 0.60 (4.03%) to close at Rs. 15.50. 

Consumer Services sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Jetwing Symphony Limited and Ceylon Hotels Corporation) whilst the sector index increased by 3.55%. 

The share price of Jetwing Symphony Limited increased by Rs. 2.40 (13.11%) to close at Rs. 20.70. The share price of Ceylon Hotels Corporation moved up by Rs. 3.70 (9.56%) to close at Rs. 42.40. Hemas Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hemas Holdings appreciated by Rs. 0.60 (1.90%) to close at Rs. 32.10.