Week commences in green

Indices closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Sampath Bank, Hatton National Bank and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 931 Mn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, Hayleys Fabric, and Access Engineering. Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, Sampath Bank and Hayleys whilst retail interest was noted in Co-operative Insurance Company, Browns Investments and LOLC Finance.

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank, Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Nations Trust Bank) whilst the sector index gained 1.88%. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs. 4.75 (2.98%) to close at Rs. 164.00. The share price of Commercial Bank gained Rs. 0.80 (0.97%) to close at Rs. 83.20. The share price of Sampath Bank moved up

by Rs. 2.20 (3.14%) to close at Rs. 72.30. The share price of Nations Trust Bank appreciated by Rs. 4.00

(3.66%) to close at Rs. 113.25. Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hayleys) whilst the sector index increased by 2.05%. The share price of Hayleys recorded a gain of Rs. 2.70 (3.06%) to close at Rs. 91.00.