Indices edge up

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Singer Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Telecom with the turnover crossing Rs 349 Mn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Commercial Bank, Hatton National Bank and Nations Trust Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Softlogic Holdings. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Commercial Bank.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank, Hatton National Bank, Nations Trust Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index lost 0.35%. The share price of Commercial Bank decreased by Rs 0.50 (0.40%) closing at Rs 123.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 594,995 shares. The share price of Hatton National Bank lost Rs 1.90 (0.82%) to close at Rs 229.00. The share price of Nations Trust Bank moved up by Rs 0.60 (0.66%) to close at Rs 91.10. The share price of Sampath Bank closed flat at Rs 290.00.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Softlogic Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.55%. The share price of Softlogic Holdings recorded a gain of Rs 0.30 (1.33%) to close at Rs 22.80.

Furthermore, Amaya Leisure announced its interim dividend of Rs 1.00 per share whilst Abans Electricals announced its final dividend of Rs 2.00 per share.