Indices close in green

Both ASPI and S&P SL20 closed in green due to price gains in counters such as Nestle Lanka, John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank with turnover crossing Rs 217 Mn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Ascot Holdings, Resus Energy and Hatton National Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Tokyo Cement Company, Sierra Cables and Access Engineering whilst retail interest was noted in Janashakthi Insurance Company, Piramal Glass and Vallibel Power Erathna. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in Hatton National Bank, John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank of Ceylon.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank of Ceylon) whilst the sector index lost 0.15%. The share price of Hatton National Bank gained Rs 0.40 (0.17%) closing at Rs 230.50 whilst foreign holdings increased by 152,410 shares. The share price of Commercial Bank of Ceylon recorded a gain of Rs 1.00 (0.67%) closing at Rs 151.00 whilst foreign holdings increased by 94,629 shares.

Power and Energy sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Resus Energy) whilst the sector index increased by 0.05%. The share price of Resus Energy increased by Rs 1.20 (5.22%) to close at Rs 24.20.

John Keells Holdings and Ascot Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs 1.90 (1.27%) closing at Rs 151.90 whilst foreign holdings increased by 62,163 shares. The share price of Ascot Holdings increased by Rs 0.20 (0.62%) to close at Rs 32.70.