Week begins with gains

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Carson Cumberbatch, Melstacorp and

John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.2 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, Renuka Foods and Prime Lands Residencies. Mixed interest was observed in LB Finance, Associated Motor Finance Company and Watawala Plantations whilst retail interest was noted in Kotagala Plantations, SMB Leasing and LVL Energy Fund. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Kotagala Plantations) whilst the sector index gained 2.35%. The share price of Kotagala Plantations gained Rs 0.80 (8.42%) to close at Rs 10.30. The Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Associated

Motor Finance Company, LB Finance and Galle Face Capital Partners) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.44%. The share price of Associated Motor Finance Company moved down by Rs 11.90 (12.98%) to close at Rs 79.80. The share

price of LB Finance recorded a loss of Rs 0.25 (0.16%) to close at Rs 153.00. The share price of Galle Face Capital Partners appreciated by Rs 4.80 (5.88%) to close at Rs 86.50.

Prime Lands Residencies was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Prime Lands Residencies increased by Rs 1.80 (5.52%) to close at Rs 34.40.