Indices close in red

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Dialog Axiata, Melstacorp and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.5 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Sathosa Motors and Windforce. Mixed interest was observed in ACL Cables, Haycarb and HNB Finance whilst retail interest was noted in Lanka Credit and Business Finance, Browns Investments and Renuka Agri 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 John Keells Holdings and Access Engineering) whilst the sector index lost 0.24%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 0.10 (0.50%) to close at Rs 20.00. The share price of Access Engineering recorded a gain of Rs 0.30 (0.38%) to close at Rs 78.40.

Retailing sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sathosa Motors) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.03%. The share price of Sathosa Motors lost Rs 53.25 (4.25%) to close at Rs 1,200.25. Windforce Limited and Chevron Lubricants were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Windforce Limited moved down by Rs 0.10 (0.24%) to close at Rs 40.80. The share price of Chevron Lubricants appreciated by Rs 1.25 (0.63%) to close at Rs 200.50.