Indices edge up

ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Lanka Orix Leasing Company, Central Finance Company and John Keells Holdings. A similar behaviour was witnessed in S&P SL20. Meanwhile, the turnover crossed Rs 999 Mn for the day. Crossings were witnessed in John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank and Sunshine Holdings, accounting for 47.0% of turnover. Retail interest was noted in Lankem Developments. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in John Keells Holdings. Total foreign purchases accounted for 44.1% of turnover.

Diversified sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.35%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 1.00 (0.63%) closing at Rs 160.60 whilst foreign holdings increased by 1,837,247 shares.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Central Finance Company, Sampath Bank and National Development Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 0.26%. The share price of Central Finance Company gained Rs 7.00 (7.53%) to close at Rs 100.00. The share price of Sampath Bank moved down by Rs 0.70 (0.21%) to close at Rs 339.00. The share price of National Development Bank increased by Rs 2.10 (1.52%) to close at Rs 140.00.

Lion Brewery was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lion Brewery recorded a loss of Rs 18.50 (3.37%) to close at Rs 530.00.

Furthermore, National Development Bank announced an interim dividend of Rs 2.00 per share.