Indices gain for 5th consecutive day

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Expolanka Holdings, LOLC Holdings and Commercial Leasing & Finance with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.6 bn.

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Browns Investments, Hayleys and John Keells Holdings.

Mixed interest was observed in LOLC Holdings, Commercial Leasing & Finance and Royal Ceramics whilst retail interest was noted in Lanka Orix Finance, Galadari Hotels and Expolanka Holdings. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

Transportation sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Expolanka Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 3.03%. The share price of Expolanka Holdings increased by Rs. 5.75 (3.04%) to close at Rs. 195.00.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.75%. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs. 3.00 (2.21%) to close at Rs. 139.00.

Browns Investments, Lanka Orix Finance and LOLC Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Browns Investments gained Rs. 0.10 (1.03%) to close at Rs. 9.80. The share price of Lanka Orix Finance closed flat at Rs. 9.70.

The share price of LOLC Holdings appreciated by Rs. 21.75 (3.87%) to close at Rs. 583.50.

Furthermore, Singer Sri Lanka and Haycarb announced their interim dividends of Rs. 0.30 and Rs. 0.80 per share respectively.