Indices close on a mixed note

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Senkadagala Finance, John Keells Holdings and Bukit Darah with the turnover crossing Rs. 5.1 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Renuka Holdings nonvoting, Tokyo Cement Company and Distilleries. Mixed interest was observed in Colombo Dockyard, ACL Cables and Hatton National Bank nonvoting whilst retail interest was noted in EML Consultants, Agstar and Hikkaduwa Beach Resort.

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 Colombo Dockyard, ACL Cables and Renuka Holdings nonvoting) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.04%. The share price of Colombo Dockyard increased by Rs 5.50 (5.08%) to close at Rs 113.75. The share price of ACL Cables gained Rs 3.25 (3.19%) to close at Rs 105.25. The share price of Renuka Holdings nonvoting moved up by Rs 0.70 (1.71%) to close at Rs 41.60.

Materials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Tokyo Cement Company) whilst the sector index increased by 0.59%. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company recorded a gain of Rs 2.25 (2.01%) to close at Rs 114.25.

Hatton National Bank nonvoting was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hatton National Bank nonvoting closed flat at Rs 357.50.