JKH accounts for ~59% of turnover

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Distilleries and Dialog Axiata with the turnover crossing Rs 1.3 Bn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in John Keells Holdings and Hatton National Bank, accounting for 54.3% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Tokyo Cement Company, Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in First Capital Holdings. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net buyers.

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 1.36%.

The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 3.20 (2.99%) to close at Rs 110.10. The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank, Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.03%. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs 0.40 (0.34%) to close at Rs 117.60. The share price of Hatton National Bank moved down by Rs 0.90 (0.86%) to close at Rs 104.00. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a gain of Rs 0.10 (0.16%) to close at Rs 64.00. Tokyo Cement Company was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company appreciated by Rs 0.60 (2.26%) to close at Rs 27.20. Furthermore, First Capital Holdings announced an interim dividend of Rs 5.00 per share whilst Watawala Plantations announced their final dividend of Rs 3.00 per share.