Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Richard Pieris & Company and LOLC Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.6 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Aitken Spence, Hatton National Bank and Dialog Axiata. Mixed interest was observed in RIL Property, HNB Finance and Royal Ceramics whilst retail interest was noted in Hela Apparel Holdings, HNB Finance Nonvoting and HVA Foods.

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

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Aitken Spence) whilst the sector index lost 0.71%. The share price of Aitken Spence recorded a loss of Rs 0.25 (0.18%) to close at Rs 137.00.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.23%. The share price of Hatton National Bank moved up by Rs 2.00 (0.51%) to close at Rs 397.25.

Dialog Axiata, RIL Property PLC and HNB Finance were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dialog Axiata increased by Rs 1.60 (3.76%) to close at Rs 44.20. The share price of RIL Property PLC gained Rs 1.80 (6.87%) to close at Rs 28.00. The share price of HNB Finance closed flat at Rs 9.90.