Indices close in green

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Cargills , Carson Cumberbatch and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 633 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Ceylon Cold Stores and Ceylon Tobacco Company. Mixed interest was observed in Royal Ceramics, Sampath Bank and Hayleys Fabric whilst retail interest was noted in Renuka Agri Foods. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in John Keells Holdings, Ceylon Tobacco Company and Sampath Bank.

Manufacturing sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics) whilst the sector index gained 1.18%. The share price of Royal Ceramics recorded a gain of Rs 2.60 (2.92%) to close at Rs 91.50.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Cold Stores and Ceylon Tobacco Company) whilst the sector index increased by 0.40%. The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores closed flat at Rs 815.00. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company edged up by Rs 0.50 (0.04%) closing at Rs 1,120.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 30,411 shares.

John Keells Holdings and Sampath Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 0.70 (0.43%) closing at Rs 161.70 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 168,632 shares. The share price of Sampath Bank appreciated by Rs 0.70 (0.42%) closing at Rs 168.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 133,971 shares.