Indices close in green

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Lanka Orix Leasing Company, Commercial Bank and Vallibel One with turnover crossing Rs 499 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. Crossings were witnessed in John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank and Alumex, accounting for 58.7% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka Orix Leasing Company and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in John Keells Holdings. Total foreign sales accounted for 48.6% of the turnover.

Diversified sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.02%. The share price of John Keells Holdings edged upby Rs 0.10 (0.06%) closing at Rs 158.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 636,838 shares.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 0.55%. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs 2.30 (0.77%) to close at Rs 301.90. The share price of Commercial Bank appreciated by Rs 1.50 (1.11%) to close at Rs 136.50.

Lion Brewery and Alumex were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lion Brewery edged up by Rs 0.10 (0.02%) to close at Rs 525.00. The share price of Alumex recorded a gain of Rs 0.10 (0.59%) to close at Rs 17.10.