ASPI gains 7.0% during the month

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 3.4 bn.

High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Access Engineering and Elpitiya Plantations.

Mixed interest was observed in Janashakthi Limited, Kotagala Plantations and Watawala Plantations whilst retail interest was noted in UB Finance Company, Hela Apparel Holdings and Citrus Leisure. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. During the month, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 7.0% and 5.1% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 3.66 Bn. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Access Engineering) whilst the sector index lost 0.56%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs. 0.20 (0.97%) to close at Rs 20.40. The share price of Access Engineering moved up by Rs. 0.90 (1.18%) to close at Rs. 76.90. 

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Elpitiya Plantations and Melstacorp) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.10%. The share price of Elpitiya Plantations recorded a gain of Rs. 5.25 (2.90%) to close at Rs. 186.25. The share price of Melstacorp declined by Rs. 1.00 (0.54%) to close at Rs. 183.00. Janashakthi Limited was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Janashakthi Limited lost Rs. 0.40 (2.92%) to close at Rs. 13.30.