ASPI returns to 7000

The price gains in counters such as Dialog Axiata, Ceylon Tobacco Company and Ceylon Beverage Holdings resulted in indices closing in green whilst turnover crossed Rs 1.1 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Distilleries, Hatton National Bank, Commercial Bank and John Keells Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Access Engineering, National Development Bank and Janashakthi Insurance Company whilst retail interest was noted in John Keells Holdings Warrant 22, First Capital Holdings and Renuka Holdings. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Distilleries. Total foreign sales accounted for 64.9% of turnover.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 1.44%. The share price of Hatton National Bank closed flat at Rs 225.00. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a gain of Rs 1.20 (0.71%) to close at Rs 170.20.

Beverage Food and Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Distilleries) whilst the sector index increased by 1.50%. The share price of Distilleries increased by Rs 2.00 (0.84%) closing at Rs 240.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 900,000 shares.

John Keells Holdings and Chevron Lubricants were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs 2.10 (1.01%) to close at Rs 209.00. The share price of Chevron Lubricants appreciated by Rs 10.00 (2.53%) to close at Rs 405.00.