Indices close in green

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Expolanka Holdings, LOLC Holdings and Vallibel One 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 John Keells Holdings, Teejay Lanka and Hayleys. Mixed interest was observed in Ceylon Grain Elevators, LOLC Holdings and Royal Ceramics, whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, SMB Leasing nonvoting 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 8.40%. The share price of Expolanka Holdings increased by Rs 6.20 (8.45%) to close at Rs 79.60.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics and Vallibelone), whilst the sector index increased by 2.02%. The share price of Royal Ceramics moved up by Rs 1.60 (3.99%) to close at Rs 41.70. The share price of Vallibel Oneappreciated by Rs 4.20 (7.20%) to close at Rs 62.50.

Browns Investments and Teejay Lanka were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Browns Investments gained Rs 0.10 (1.49%) to close at Rs 6.80. The share price of Teejay Lanka recorded a gain of Rs 1.50 (3.56%) closing at Rs 43.60, whilst foreign holdings decreased by 5,263,584 shares.