Indices close in red

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Sampath Bank, Hayleys and Dialog Axiata with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.2bn. 

Crossings were witnessed in John Keells Holdings, E B Creasy & Company and Ceylon Cold Stores accounting for 48.4% of the turnover. 

Mixed interest was observed in Dialog Axiata, Industrial Asphalts and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Waskaduwa Beach Resort, Citrus Leisure and Softlogic Finance. 

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 E B Creasy & Company) whilst the sector index lost 0.41%. 

The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs. 20.00. The share price of E B Creasy & Company moved down by Rs. 2.00 (4.76%) to close at Rs. 40.00. 

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Renuka Foods and Ceylon Cold Stores) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.45%. The share price of Renuka Foods decreased by Rs. 0.30 (1.19%) to close at Rs. 25.00. 

The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores recorded a loss of Rs. 2.25 (1.78%) to close at Rs. 124.00. Dialog Axiata was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dialog Axiata declined by Rs. 0.60 (1.35%) to close

at Rs. 44.00.