Turnover crosses LKR 11 Bn

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Hatton National Bank and Sampath Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 11.1 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hatton National Bank, HNB Finance and Hatton National Bank nonvoting. Mixed interest was observed in LVL Energy Fund, Sierra Cables and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, UB Finance Company and Beruwala Resorts. 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 Hatton National Bank, Hatton National Bank nonvoting and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index gained 1.27%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs 7.00 (1.75%) to close at Rs 406.00. The share price of Hatton National Bank nonvoting edged up by Rs 0.25 (0.08%) to close at Rs 317.25. The share price of Sampath Bank appreciated by Rs 2.00 (1.38%) to close at Rs 147.00.

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to HNB Finance) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.17%. The share price of HNB Finance gained Rs 1.00 (12.35%) to close at Rs 9.10.

LVL Energy Fund Limited was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of LVL Energy Fund Limited recorded a gain of Rs 0.90 (9.38%) to close at Rs 10.50.