Crossings boost turnover

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylinco Holdings, LOLC Holdings and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.8 bn.

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in Sampath Bank, John Keells Holdings, Hatton National Bank accounting for 54.7% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Ceylon Cold Stores, Swisstek and Lanka IOC whilst retail interest was noted in Hela Apparel Holdings, SMB Leasing and LOLC Finance. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index lost 0.20%. The share price of Sampath Bank closed flat at Rs 121.75. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a loss of Rs 2.25 (0.71%) to close at Rs 315.00. 

The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.04%. The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs 0.10 (0.49%) to close at Rs 20.30. Ceylon Cold Stores and Browns Investments were also included amongst the top turnover contributors.

The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores moved up by Rs 1.90 (2.40%) to close at Rs. 81.20. The share price of Browns Investments appreciated by Rs 0.10 (1.35%) to close at Rs. 7.50.