ASPI gains ~2.9% while crossing the 6,000 threshold

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Carson Cumberbatch, Bukit Darah and Nestle Lanka with the turnover crossing Rs 1.8 Bn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings and Hatton National Bank.

Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Tokyo Cement Company and Hayleys Fabric, whilst retail interest was noted in Richard Pieris & Company, Ceylon Investment and Dankotuwa Porcelain. 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 Hemas Holdings), whilst the sector index gained 2.09%. The share price of Hemas Holdings gained Rs 5.20 (7.22%) to close at Rs 77.20.

Materials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Tokyo Cement Company), whilst the sector index increased by 0.44%. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company moved down by Rs 1.60 (2.99%) to close at Rs 52.00.

Expolanka Holdings, Hayleys Fabric and Lanka IOC were also included amongst the top turnover contributors.

The share price of Expolanka Holdings decreased by Rs 0.20 (1.79%) to close at Rs 11.00. Furthermore, the share price of Hayleys Fabric recorded a gain of Rs 0.70 (3.10%) to close at Rs 23.30, whilst, the share price of Lanka IOC closed flat at Rs 26.50.