Indices close in green

ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylon Tobacco Company, Ceylon Cold Stores and Lion Brewery. A similar behavior was witnessed in S&P SL20. The turnover crossed Rs 342 Mn for the day. Crossings were witnessed in Cargills and Hatton National Bank, accounting for 53.5% of turnover. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings and National Development Bank whilst retail interest was noted in and Lankem Developments. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in Hatton National Bank. Total foreign purchases accounted for 63.4% of turnover.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Cargills) whilst the sector index gained 1.27%. The share price of Cargills closed flat at Rs 204.00.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and National Development Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.27%. The share price of Hatton National Bank gained Rs 1.70 (0.67%) closing at Rs 256.70 whilst foreign holdings increased by 134,900 shares. The share price of National Development Bank moved up by Rs 0.10 (0.07%) to close at Rs 137.00.

John Keells Holdings and Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a gain of Rs 0.40 (0.26%) to close at Rs 153.90. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting increased by Rs 1.00 (1.77%) to close at Rs 57.50.