Crossings boost turnover

Indices gained marginally to end the day in green territory. Crossings witnessed in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Aitken Spence and National Development Bank contributed to 62% of turnover. Meanwhile, retail interest was witnessed in Touchwood Investments and PC House while foreigners became net buyers for the day due to purchases seen in blue chips.

Diversified sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings, Aitken Spence Holdings) and the sector index gained 0.81%. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 4.00 (1.63%) to close at Rs 250.00 while the foreign holding of the counter increased by 985,551 shares. The share price of Aitken Spence dipped by Rs 1.20 (0.97%) to close at Rs 123.10.

Banking, Finance & Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to National Development Bank, Union Bank) and the sector index decreased by 0.26%. The share price of National Development Bank went up by Rs 6.20 (3.81%) to close at Rs 169.00 and the counter’s foreign holding increased by 590 000 shares. The share price of Union Bank also gained Rs 1.20 (7.06%) to close at Rs 18.20 while the counters foreign holding decreased by 539,550.

Touchwood Investments was also among the top contributors to turnover and the share price of Touchwood Investments increased by Rs 0.40 (10.00%) to close at Rs 4.40.

Meanwhile Vallibel One and Vallibel Power announced their interim dividend of Rs 0.70 and Rs 0.20 per share.