Indices close on positive note

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Commercial Bank, Hatton National Bank and Carson Cumberbatch with the turnover crossing Rs. 853 mn. Similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings, Vallibel Finance, and John Keells Holdings.

Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, Hayleys and LB Finance whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing voting and non voting, Nawaloka Hospitals and Industrial Asphalts.

Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hemas Holdings, John Keells Holdings and Hayleys) whilst the sector index gained 0.37%.

The share price of Hemas Holdings decreased by Rs. 0.30 (0.46%) to close at Rs. 65.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs. 1.00 (0.72%) to close at Rs. 139.75.

The share price of Hayleys appreciated by Rs. 0.70 (1.01%) to close at Rs. 70.10.

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Vallibel Finance) whilst the sector index increased by 1.23%. The share price of Vallibel Finance lost Rs. 0.70 (2.21%) to close at Rs. 31.00. Sampath Bank was also included amongst the top turnover contributors.

The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 0.20 (0.41%) to close at Rs. 49.00. Furthermore, Gestetner Of Ceylon and JAT Holdings announced their dividends of Rs. 7.00 and Rs. 0.49 per share respectively.