Foreign buying continues

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Ceylon Tobacco Company and Hatton National Bank whilst turnover crossed Rs 1.4 Bn. Crossings were witnessed in Melstacorp Limited, John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank, accounting for 61.9% of turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank and Chevron Lubricants, whilst retail interest was noted in Teejay Lanka. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchases in John Keells Holdings. Total foreign purchases accounted for 74.8% of turnover.

Diversified sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Melstacorp Limited and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.48%. The share price of Melstacorp Limited decreased by Rs 0.40 (0.61%) to close at Rs 65.10. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 1.70 (1.10%) closing at Rs 156.70 whilst foreign holdings increased by 2,238,595 shares.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 0.26%. The share price of Commercial Bank closed flat at Rs 142.20. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a gain of Rs 2.20 (0.97%) to close at Rs 229.90.

Chevron Lubricants was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Chevron Lubricants increased by Rs 0.80 (0.46%) to close at Rs 175.80.