Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Sampath Bank, LOLC Holdings and Ceylon Grain Elevators with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.1bn. 

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Dialog Axiata, Aitken Spence and Central Industries. 

Mixed interest was observed in Bogala Graphite Lanka, LB Finance and Haycarb whilst retail interest was noted in LOLC Finance, Browns Investments and Ceylon Land & Equity. 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 edged down by 0.05%. The share price of Aitken Spence recorded a gain of Rs. 1.50 (0.96%) to close at Rs. 158.25. Telecommunication Services sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Dialog Axiata) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.53%. The share price of Dialog Axiata decreased by Rs. 0.30 (0.65%) to close at Rs. 45.60. Bogala Graphite Lanka, LB Finance and Haycarb were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. 

The share price of Bogala Graphite Lanka gained Rs. 17.50 (12.73%) to close at Rs. 155.00. The share price of LB Finance moved down by Rs. 1.75 (0.99%) to close at Rs. 175.25. The share price of Haycarb appreciated by Rs. 5.25 (3.47%) to close at Rs. 156.50.