Indices close in green

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Hemas Holdings, Sampath Bank and Access Engineering with the turnover crossing Rs 277 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings and Access Engineering. Mixed interest was observed in Hayleys Fabric, John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments and Tokyo Cement Company nonvoting. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers.

Diversified sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hemas Holdings and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.55%. The share price of Hemas Holdings increased by Rs 4.40 (6.28%) to close at Rs 74.50. The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs 152.00.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover whilst the sector index increased by 0.37%.

Access Engineering, Hayleys Fabric and Colombo Land & Development Company were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Access Engineering gained Rs 1.10 (6.15%) to close at Rs 19.00. The share price of Hayleys Fabric moved up by Rs 0.20 (1.32%) to close at Rs 15.30. The share price of Colombo Land & Development Company appreciated by Rs 1.40 (6.28%) to close at Rs 23.70.