ASPI gains 0.9% during the week

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Commercial Bank, National Development Bank and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 2.5 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hayleys, John Keells Holdings and Sampath Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Royal Ceramics, National Development Bank and Nations Trust Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, LOLC Finance and SMB Leasing. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

During the week the ASPI and the S&P SL20 gained 0.9% and 1.6% respectively whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 2.35 Bn. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 1.46%. The share price of Royal Ceramics gained Rs 1.40 (4.00%) to close at Rs 36.40. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a gain of Rs 2.75 (1.33%) to close at Rs 208.75.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to National Development Bank and Nations Trust Bank ) whilst the sector index increased by 1.94%. The share price of National Development Bank moved up by Rs 3.90 (4.88%) to close at Rs 83.90. The share price of Nations Trust Bank appreciated by Rs 5.75 (4.95%) to close at Rs 122.00. Browns Investments was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Browns Investments increased by Rs 0.10 (1.52%) to close at Rs 6.70.