ASPI gains 0.8% during the week

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Harischandra Mills, Sampath Bank and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.2 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged down. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Royal Ceramics, Laugfs Gas and Colombo Dockyard. Mixed interest was observed in LOLC Finance, Browns Investments and Sierra Cables whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, Hela Apparel Holdings and Co-Operative Insurance Company. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

During the week, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 0.8% and 0.1% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 7.37 Bn.

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics, Colombo Dockyard and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.94%. The share price of Royal Ceramics moved down by Rs 1.00 (2.12%) to close at Rs 46.10. The share price of Colombo Dockyard recorded a gain of Rs 35.50 (19.35%) to close at Rs 219.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings appreciated by Rs 0.10 (0.47%) to close at Rs 21.40.

The Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to LOLC Finance) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.36%. The share price of LOLC Finance increased by Rs 0.30 (4.69%) to close at Rs 6.70.

Laugfs Gas was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Laugfs Gas gained Rs 0.40 (0.66%) to close at Rs 61.20.