CSE positive ahead of Independence Day

The Colombo stock market yesterday ended positive ahead of the Independence Day holiday today. 

The All Share Price Index inched by 1.28 points and the S&P SL20 index improved by four points with turnover being Rs. 387.7 million. 

NDB Securities said the ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylon Tobacco Company, Distilleries and Dialog Axiata.

Crossings were witnessed in Commercial Bank and Nations Trust Bank, accounting for 47.2% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Overseas Realty and Hayleys Fibre. 

Foreigners remained active closing as net sellers. Total foreign sales accounted for 57.7%of the turnover.

Banks sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Nations Trust Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.23%. The share price of Commercial Bank increased by Rs. 0.40 (0.43%) to close at Rs. 92.40. The share price of Sampath Bank closed flat at Rs. 163.20. The share price of Nations Trust Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 0.20 (0.26%) to close at Rs. 77.80.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.04%. The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs. 0.20 (0.12%) to close at Rs. 161.90. Hayleys Fibre was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hayleys Fibre appreciated by Rs. 6.80 (6.31%) to close at Rs. 114.60. 

Furthermore, Commercial Bank announced their interim dividend of Rs. 3 per share.