Indices close in green while turnover crosses Rs. 2.6 bn

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Carson Cumberbatch, Browns Investments and Distilleries with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.6 bn.

A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings and Sampath Bank.

Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Commercial Bank and Ceylon Tobacco Company whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, Access Engineering and LOLC Holdings.

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 1.07%.

The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 0.90 (0.67%) to close at Rs 135.90. Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Tobacco Company) whilst the sector index increased by 0.50%.

The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company declined by Rs 20.00 (2.06%) closing at Rs. 950.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 83,994 shares. Sampath Bank, Expolanka Holdings and Commercial Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors.

Furthermore, the share price of Sampath Bank lost Rs 0.80 (0.65%) to close at Rs 122.50 while the share price of Expolanka Holdings moved up by Rs. 0.10 (1.45%) to close at Rs 7.00. The share price of Commercial Bank closed flat at Rs. 79.00.