The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Colombo Dockyard and Diesel & Motor Engineering with the turnover crossing Rs. 3.4 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in green. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings, Colombo Dockyard and DFCC Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Access Engineering, Waskaduwa Beach Resort and Jetwing Symphony whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, LOLC Finance and UB Finance Company. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.
The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Access Engineering, Hemas Holdings and Colombo Dockyard) whilst the sector index gained 0.13%. The share price of Access Engineering increased by Rs 1.30 (1.88%) to close at Rs 70.60. The share price of Hemas Holdings gained Rs 0.10 (0.28%) to close at Rs 35.70. The share price of Colombo Dockyard moved up by Rs 19.50 (4.81%) to close at Rs 424.75.
The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to DFCC Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 0.32%. The share price of DFCC Bank recorded a loss of Rs 0.25 (0.16%) to close at Rs 159.75.
Melstacorp was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Melstacorp declined by Rs 0.50 (0.27%) to close at Rs 183.50.