Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as C T Holdings, Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.0 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Melstacorp, Hatton National Bank nonvoting and JAT Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, Commercial Bank and ACL Cables whilst retail interest was noted in LVL Energy Fund , Cargills Bank and R I L Property. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank, Hatton National Bank nonvoting and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index lost 0.70%. The share price of Sampath Bank decreased by Rs 1.50 (1.08%) to close at Rs 137.25. The share price of

Hatton National Bank nonvoting moved down by Rs 7.75 (2.36%) to close at Rs 320.00. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a loss of Rs 2.25 (1.10%) to close at Rs 203.00.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Melstacorp) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.64%. The share price of Melstacorp lost Rs 2.25 (1.21%) to close at Rs 183.25.

Jat Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Jat Holdings closed flat at Rs 37.50.