ASPI gains 10% during the month

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Browns Investments, Melstacorp and Sampath Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 2.2 Bn. Similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation were noted in John Keells Holdings, Seylan Bank, and Hatton National Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka IOC, Sampath Bank and John Keells Hotels whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, LOLC Finance and Blue Diamonds Jewellery Worldwide. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net buyers.

During the month the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 10.4% and 12.1% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 1.46 Bn.

The capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.10%. The share price of John Keells Holdings
closed flat at Rs 150.00.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Seylan Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 1.15%. The share price of Seylan Bank moved up by Rs 0.70 (2.05%) to close at Rs 34.90. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a gain of Rs 1.25 (0.91%) to close at Rs 139.00.

Browns Investments and LOLC Finance were also included among the top turnover contributors. The share price of Browns Investments gained Rs 0.30 (5.45%) to close at Rs 5.80. The share price of LOLC Finance appreciated by Rs 0.10 (1.89%) to close at Rs 5.40.

Furthermore, hSenid Business Solutions announced its dividend of LKR 0.35 per share.