Crossings boost turnover

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as National Development Bank, LOLC Holdings and DFCC Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.8 bn. 

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged down. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hayleys, Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, LB Finance and Access Engineering whilst retail interest was noted in HNB Finance, LVL Energy Fund and Prime Lands Residencies. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. 

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hayleys and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.27%. The share price of Hayleys increased by Rs. 5.00 (3.13%) to close at Rs. 164.50. The share price of John Keells Holdings declined by Rs. 0.10 (0.46%) to close at Rs. 21.80. 

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.14%. The share price of Commercial Bank gained Rs.1.00 (0.66%) to close at Rs. 153.00. The share price of Sampath Bank moved up by Rs. 1.75 (1.46%) to close at Rs. 121.75. LB Finance was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of LB Finance recorded a gain of Rs. 4.00 (3.45%) to close at Rs. 120.00.