ASPI edges up

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Sri Lanka Telecom, Teejay Lanka and Expolanka Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 474 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. Crossings were witnessed in Ceylinco Insurance, Union Bank and Sampath Bank, accounting for 40.1% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Teejay Lanka and Access Engineering whilst retail interest was noted in Merchant Bank of Sri Lanka & Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

During the week, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 lost 0.30% and 0.47% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs 481 Mn.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylinco Insurance, Union Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.03%. The share price of Ceylinco Insurance closed flat at Rs 1,999.00. The share price of Union Bank closed flat at Rs 10.90. The share price of Sampath Bank closed flat at Rs 237.50.

Manufacturing sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Teejay Lanka) whilst the sector index increased by 0.33%. The share price of Teejay Lanka gained Rs 1.00 (2.94%) closing at Rs 35.00.

John Keells Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs 156.00.