Full Stock Market

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Lion Brewery, Hayleys and HNB Finance Limited with the turnover crossing Rs 777 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Expolanka Holdings and Lion Brewery. Mixed interest was observed in Sanasa Development Bank, Richard Pieris & Company and Hayleys, whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, Piramal Glass and Sampath Bank. Foreign participation in the market remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

During the month, the ASPI and the S&P SL20 lost 4.75% and 3.93% respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs 1.86 Bn.

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hayleys and Richard Pieris & Company), whilst the sector index edged down by 0.02%. The share price of Hayleys moved up by Rs 2.10 (3.58%) to close at Rs 60.80. The share price of Richard Pieris & Company closed flat at Rs 16.80.

Materials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Piramal Glass and Dipped Products), whilst the sector index decreased by 0.20%. The share price of Piramal Glass increased by Rs 0.10 (0.91%) to close at Rs 11.10. The share price of Dipped Products appreciated by Rs 0.10 (0.22%) to close at Rs 46.40.

Expolanka Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Expolanka Holdings lost Rs 0.10 (0.22%) to close at Rs 44.70.

Furthermore, . Union Bank announced a final dividend of Rs 0.13 per share.