Indices close in red

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Commercial Bank, Hayleys and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs. 3.8 bn.

High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Vallibel One and Commercial Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in Tea Smallholder Factories, Hatton National Bank and Dipped Products whilst retail interest was noted in Hela Apparel Holdings, Nation Lanka Finance and LOLC Finance. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 1.88%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs. 0.20 (0.99%) to close at Rs. 20.00. 

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 2.76%. The share price of Commercial Bank moved down by Rs. 5.25 (3.66%) to close at Rs. 138.25. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 8.00 (2.61%) to close at Rs. 298.25. 

Tea Smallholder Factories and Dipped Products were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Tea Smallholder Factories gained Rs. 0.80 (1.93%) to close at Rs. 42.30. The share price of Dipped Products declined by Rs. 4.10 (7.18%) to close at Rs. 53.00.