S&P SL20 records highest gain for the day since inception

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Dialog Axiata and Ceylon Tobacco Company with the turnover crossing Rs 1.0 Bn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20, which gained 5.25% for the day. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Dialog Axiata, Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Hayleys Fabric and Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index gained 3.27%. The share price of Commercial Bank gained Rs 1.30 (2.37%) to close at Rs 56.10. The share price of Sampath Bank moved up by Rs 3.60 (3.30%) to close at Rs 112.60. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a gain of Rs 0.80 (0.84%) to close at Rs 95.80. Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 6.89%.

The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 7.60 (9.44%) to close at Rs 88.10. Dialog Axiata was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dialog Axiata appreciated by Rs 0.70 (7.95%) to close at Rs 9.50.