Bourse remains positive despite profit taking

Stocks at the CSE remained positive though some profit taking was seen in the last stages of trading. The broader market index, ASPI gained 7 points (+0.2 percent) at the close of the day to finish at 4,022 while the more liquid MPI gained 4 points (0.1 percent) to close at 4,580.

Turnover for the day was a healthy Rs 1.9 billion with trading in Sampath Bank shares accounting for Rs 333 million of the day's business. The share gained Rs 2.00 to close at Rs 256.00.

Hotel Services, which owns the Ceylon Continental Hotel gained Rs 1.75 to close at Rs 29.75 on a turnover of Rs 153 million.

John Keells Hotels lost 25 cents to end at Rs 21.75 on a turnover of Rs 129 million as there was evidence of profit taking.

Swadeshi Industries share which rarely trades as it is tightly held saw 200 shares trade Rs 3,800.00.

Touchwood Investments gained Rs 11.00 to close at Rs 126.00 as the company announced the ex-rights date of May 17.

The new issue is priced at Rs 60.00 per share on the basis of one new share for every one held. First Guardian Equities