ASPI edges up

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters

such as John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 1.7 Bn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. Crossings were

witnessed in Tokyo Cement Company non voting, Commercial Bank, John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank, Nations Trust Bank and Overseas Reality, accounting for 41.5% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Hemas Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Hatton National Bank non voting. Furthermore, foreigners

remained active closing as net sellers. Total foreign sales accounted for 51.0% of the turnover.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Nations Trust Bank ) whilst the sector index gained 1.47%.

The share price of Commercial Bank increased by Rs 0.70 (0.92%) to close at Rs 76.50 while the share price of Sampath Bank recorded a gain of Rs 4.90 (4.08%) to close at Rs 124.90 Furthermore, the share price of Nations Trust Bank appreciated by Rs 0.70 (1.15%) to close at Rs 61.50.

The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells

Holdings and Hemas Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 1.08%. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 2.10 (1.86%) to close at Rs 114.90 while the share price of Hemas Holdings closed flat at Rs 60.00.

Furthermore, Union Chemicals Lanka announced its’ final dividend of Rs 12.00 per share.