Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Melstacorp, Vallibel One and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.0bn. 

A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Lanka IOC, Ceylon Cold Stores and Hatton National Bank nonvoting. 

Mixed interest was observed in Dipped Products, Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Co-Operative Insurance Company, Lanka Credit and Business Finance and LOLC Finance. 

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 and Hatton National Bank nonvoting) whilst the sector index lost 0.30%. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 0.25 (0.18%) to close at Rs. 137.00. The share price of Hatton National Bank nonvoting declined by Rs 4.50 (1.41%) to close at Rs 315.50. 

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Cold Stores) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.41%. The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores lost Rs. 0.50 (0.40%) to close at Rs. 124.00. Lanka IOC and Dipped Products were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka IOC closed flat at Rs. 136.00. The share price of Dipped Products moved down by Rs. 0.50 (0.88%) to close at Rs. 56.00.