Crossings boost turnover

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, C T Holdings and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 8.8 bn. 

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. Crossings were witnessed in East West Properties, Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank accounting for 59.0% of the turnover. 

Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, John Keells Holdings and CIC Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in LVL Energy Fund, Renuka Agri Foods and Browns Investments. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. The Real Estate sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to East West Properties) whilst the sector index lost 0.55%. 

The share price of East West Properties increased by Rs. 5.80 (22.31%) to close at Rs. 31.80. The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank, Commercial Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.05%. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs. 0.25 (0.20%) to close at Rs. 126.00. The share price of Commercial Bank moved up by Rs. 1.00 (0.63%) to close at Rs. 159.50. The share price of Hatton National Bank declined by Rs. 2.25 (0.68%) to close at Rs. 330.00. John Keells Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a loss of Rs. 0.40 (1.69%) to close at Rs. 23.20.