ASPI gains after five consecutive days of losses

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Sampath Bank, Richard Pieris & Company and Bukit Darah with the turnover crossing Rs. 3.4 bn.

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, John Keells Holdings and Melstacorp. 

Mixed interest was observed in CIC Holdings, Renuka Agri Foods and JF Packaging, whilst retail interest was noted in Citrus Leisure, LOLC Finance and Waskaduwa Beach Resort. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.70%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs. 0.20 (0.88%) to close at Rs. 22.90. 

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 0.27%. The share price of Commercial Bank gained Rs. 0.50 (0.24%) to close at Rs. 210.00. 

CIC Holdings, Melstacorp and Renuka Agri Foods were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of CIC Holdings moved up by Rs. 1.20 (3.64%) to close at Rs. 34.20. The share price of Melstacorp recorded a loss of Rs. 2.00 (1.08%) to close at Rs. 183.00. The share price of Renuka Agri Foods appreciated by Rs. 0.30 (3.75%) to close at Rs. 8.30.