ASPI records 7th consecutive weekly gain

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylon Cold Stores, Sri Lanka Telecom and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 1.1 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Access Engineering, Sampath Bank, John Keells Holdings and Dialog Axiata. Mixed interest was observed in Tokyo Cement Company, Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting and Hatton National Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Hayleys Fabric and Ceylon Grain Elevators.

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as netsellers. During the week, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 0.82% and 1.68% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs 637 Mn. Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index gained 1.60%. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs 3.30 (2.03%) to close at Rs 165.50.

Manufacturing sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Tokyo Cement Company and Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting) whilst the sector index increased by 2.32%. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company moved up by Rs 1.90 (5.86%) to close at Rs 34.30. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting appreciated by Rs 1.10 (3.99%) to close at Rs 28.70.

Access Engineering and John Keells Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Access Engineering increased by Rs 1.60 (8.25%) to close at Rs 21.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a gain of Rs 2.00 (1.35%) to close at Rs 150.00.

Furthermore, Ceylon Tobacco Company announced an interim dividend of Rs 20.00 per share whilst Lanka Aluminium Industries and Tangerine Beach Hotels announced their first and final dividends of Rs 1.50 and Rs 1.00 per share respectively. Asia Siyaka Commodities announced the final dividend of Rs 0.15 per share.