Week begins in green

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, John Keells Holdings and Seylan Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.6 Bn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Pan Asia Banking Corporation, Seylan Bank and Commercial Bank. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, DFCC Bank and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Panasian Power, LOLC Finance and Browns Investments. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Pan Asia Banking Corporation, Commercial Bank, Seylan Bank and DFCC Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.59%. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation increased by Rs 0.20 (0.52%) to close at Rs 38.80. The share price of Commercial Bank gained Rs 0.75 (0.53%) to close at Rs 143.50. 

The share price of Seylan Bank moved up by Rs 2.80 (3.95%) to close at Rs 73.70. The share price of DFCC Bank recorded a loss of Rs 0.25 (0.24%) to close at Rs 103.75.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.46%. The share price of John Keells Holdings appreciated by Rs 0.20 (0.95%) to close at Rs 21.20.