Week begins on a mixed note

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as DFCC Bank, Cargills and Access Engineering with the turnover crossing Rs. 3.0 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Melstacorp, Tokyo Cement Compan and John Keells Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, Lanka Milk Foods and Prime Lands Residencies whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, HVA Foods and John Keells Hotels. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Melstacorp and Lanka Milk Foods) whilst the sector index gained 0.62%. The share price of Melstacorp decreased by Rs 1.25 (0.73%) to close at Rs 169.50. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods appreciated by Rs 2.00 (2.47%) to close at Rs 83.10. 

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 1.20%. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 0.10 (0.54%) to close at Rs 18.60. 

Tokyo Cement Company and Sampath Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. 

The share price of Tokyo Cement Company moved up by Rs 1.30 (1.46%) to close at Rs 90.20. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a loss of Rs 0.50 (0.34%) to close at Rs 146.00.