Turnover hits 10-week low

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Lanka Orix Leasing Company, Melstacorp and Distilleries with the turnover crossing Rs 135 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Mixed interest was observed in Cargills, John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in MTD Walkers and Access Engineering. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in Cargills.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Cargills) whilst the sector index gained 0.15%. The share price of Cargills closed flat at Rs 200.00 whilst foreign holdings increased by 162,983 shares.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.09%. The share price of John Keells Holdings edged up by Rs 0.10 (0.07%) to close at Rs 152.30.

Commercial Bank, MTD Walkers and Access Engineering were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Commercial Bank moved up by Rs 0.30 (0.26%) to close at Rs 114.00.

The share price of MTD Walkers recorded a gain of Rs 1.60 (13.33%) to close at Rs 13.60. The share price of Access Engineering appreciated by Rs 0.60 (3.80%) to close at Rs 16.40.