Crossings boost turnover to Rs. 18bn

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Melstacorp and C T Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 18.7 bn.

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in Hatton National Bank, Cargills Bank and Melstacorp accounting for 80.0% of the turnover. 

Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, LOLC Holdings and Aitken Spence whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, Dialog Axiata and Lanka Credit and Business Finance. 

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 Hatton National Bank and Cargills Bank) whilst the sector index gained 2.08%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs. 17.25 (5.71%) to close at Rs. 319.50. The share price of Cargills Bank moved up by Rs. 0.50 (5.81%) to close at Rs. 9.10. 

The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Browns Investments and Melstacorp) whilst the sector index increased by 0.40%.

The share price of Browns Investments gained Rs. 0.20 (2.50%) to close at Rs. 8.20. The share price of Melstacorp appreciated by Rs. 2.25 (1.55%) to close at Rs. 147.25. Dialog Axiata was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dialog Axiata closed flat at Rs. 17.00.