Indices close in green

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Distilleries and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 1.0 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Ceylinco Insurance, Hatton National Bank nonvoting and Dialog Axiata.

Mixed interest was observed in Commercial Bank, Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting and Ambeon Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Hayleys Fabric and Citrus Leisure.

Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Hatton National Bank nonvoting and Commercial Bank.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylinco Insurance, Hatton National Bank nonvoting and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.81%. The share price of Ceylinco Insurance closed flat at Rs 1,840.00. The share price of Hatton National Bank nonvoting edged up by Rs 0.10 (0.07%) closing at Rs 136.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 567,074 shares. The share price of Commercial Bank closed flat at Rs 99.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 747,807 shares.

Manufacturing sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting) whilst the sector index increased by 2.11%.

The share price of Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting appreciated by Rs 1.50 (4.69%) to close at Rs 33.50.

Dialog Axiata was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dialog Axiata moved up by Rs 0.10 (0.92%) to close at Rs 11.00