Full Stock Market

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Dialog Axiata, Commercial Bank and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 1.8 Bn due to the acquisition of Hatton Plantations PLC by Lotus Renewables (Pvt) Ltd.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. Crossings were witnessed in Hatton Plantations, John Keells Holdings, Janashakthi Insurance Company and Seylan Bank nonvoting, accounting for 87.4% of the turnover.

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

Plantations sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton Plantations) whilst the sector index gained 1.93%. The share price of Hatton Plantations increased by Rs 1.80 (29.51%) to close at Rs 7.90.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Janashakthi Insurance Company, Seylan Bank nonvoting and Commercial Credit & Finance) whilst the sector index increased by 0.13%. The share price of Janashakthi Insurance Company moved up by Rs 1.70 (7.08%) to close at Rs 25.70.

The share price of Seylan Bank nonvoting recorded a loss of Rs 0.20 (0.65%) to close at Rs 30.50. The share price of Commercial Credit & Finance declined by Rs 2.40 (9.64%) to close at Rs 22.50. John Keells Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors.

The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 1.00 (0.73%) closing at Rs 138.50 whilst foreign holdings increased by 415,692 shares.

Furthermore, C. W. Mackie announced its first and final dividend of Rs 3.50 per share whilst Royal Ceramics announced its final dividend of Rs 1.50 per share.