Indices close in green

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylon Tobacco Company, Dialog Axiata and Overseas Realty with turnover crossing Rs 463 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in John Keells Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Chevron Lubricants Lanka and Softlogic Holdings. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in John Keells Holdings.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.16%. The share price of Sampath Bank increased by Rs 1.20 (0.40%) to close at Rs 299.00. The share price of Hatton National Bank edged up by Rs 0.10 (0.04%) to close at Rs 241.10.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Softlogic Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.12%. The share price of John Keells Holdings edged down Rs 0.10 (0.06%) closing at Rs 164.10 whilst foreign holdings increased by 375,538 shares. The share price of Softlogic Holdings appreciated by Rs 0.60 (2.56%) to close at Rs 24.00.

Chevron Lubricants was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Chevron Lubricants closed flat at Rs 90.00.

Furthermore,united Motors Lanka announced its final dividend of Rs 1.50 per share.