Sri Lanka *market update* ASPI close up 0.1-pct, Turnover Rs.725mn

The ASPI gained marginally due to price increases in the market heavy-weight, John Keells Holdings. The day’s turnover was recorded at moderate levels to which John Keells Holdings (Voting) made the highest contribution with the assistance of two crossings. Crossings were also recorded in Lion Brewery Ceylon and Chevron Lubricants Lanka. The bourse saw net foreign buying during the day. The All Share Price Index gained 7.4 points to close at 6,522.1 (+0.1%), while the S&P SL20 Index gained 12.2 points to close at 3,566.8 (+0.3%). Total turnover for the day stood at LKR 725.0mn (USD 4,990.7k) vs. 12-months average daily turnover of LKR 943.3mn (USD 6,493.2k), whilst the volume traded for the day was 27,424k against the 12-month average daily volume of 36,952k. Top contributory counters towards the day’s turnover were John Keells Holdings (Voting) LKR 195.5mn (USD 1,345.9k, +1.6%), Lion Brewery Ceylon LKR 114.0mn (USD 785.0k, +0.8%), Chevron Lubricants Lanka LKR 50.5mn (USD 347.9k, -0.3%), Hatton National Bank (Voting) LKR 43.4mn (USD 298.4k, +0.9%), Lanka Orix Leasing Company LKR 36.2mn (USD 248.9k, +0.1%). Foreign purchases amounted to LKR 355.5mn (USD 2,447.2k), whilst foreign sales amounted to LKR 200.8mn (USD 1,382.4k). This resulted in a net foreign inflow of LKR 154.7mn being recorded at the end of the day’s trading. · Market capitalization stood at LKR 2,779.4bn. YTD performance of the ASPI is -5.4%.