Indices gain 2% for the week

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as LOLC Development Finance, LOLC Holdings and Expolanka Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 5.6 bn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged down. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Lanka Milk Food, Expolanka Holdings and Alumex.

Mixed interest was observed in Ambeon Holdings, Royal Ceramics and Dipped Products whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing voting and nonvoting, and Browns Investments. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

During the week, the ASPI and the S&P

SL20 gained 2.13 percent and 2.05 percent respectively, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs. 5.59 bn.

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics and Hayleys) whilst the sector index gained 0.24 percent. The share price of Royal Ceramics gained Rs. 0.90 (2.36 percent) to close at Rs. 39.10. The share price of Hayleys appreciated by Rs. 1.50 (1.82 percent) to close at Rs. 83.90. Transportation sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Expolanka Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 3.22 percent. The share price of Expolanka Holdings increased by Rs. 2.10 (3.24 percent) to close at Rs. 66.90.

Dipped Products and Lanka Milk Foods were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dipped Products moved up by Rs. 0.90 (1.54 percent) to close at Rs. 59.30. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods recorded a gain of Rs. 4.50 (2.68 percent) closing at Rs. 172.25 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 2,492,000 shares.