ASPI closes in green

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylinco Insurance, Bukit Darah and Distilleries with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.8 bn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Expolanka Holdings and Commercial Bank.

Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National BANKIOC, Melstacorp and Sierra

Cables. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Commercial Bank and Alumex whilst, retail interest was noted in Lanka.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Hatton National Bank), whilst the sector index gained 0.17%. The share price of Commercial Bank lost Rs. 0.20 (0.25%) closing at Rs. 80.70, whilst foreign holdings decreased by 4,310,423 shares.

The share price of Hatton National Bank edged up by Rs. 0.10 (0.08%) to close at Rs. 127.90. Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Cold Stores and Lion

Brewery), whilst the sector index increased by 1.43%.

Furthermore, the share price of Ceylon Cold Stores recorded a gain of Rs 1.10 (0.16%) to close at Rs. 671.00, whilst the share price of Lion Brewery appreciated by Rs 2.20 (0.40%) to close at Rs. 552.10. Expolanka Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Expolanka Holdings increased by Rs. 0.90 (9.28%) to close at Rs. 10.60.