Indices close on a mixed note

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Central Finance Company, Janashakthi Insurance Company and ACL Cables with the turnover crossing Rs. 5.2 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. Crossings were witnessed in Softlogic Life Insurance, Ceylon Tobacco Company and Hayleys Fabric accounting for 47.3% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Softlogic Capital, HVA Foods and Janashakthi Insurance Company whilst retail interest was noted in ACME Printing & Packaging, LVL Energy Fund and Lanka Credit and Business Finance. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers.

Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Softlogic Life Insurance) whilst the sector index gained 4.63%. The share price of Softlogic Life Insurance increased by Rs 2.40 (2.61%) to close at Rs 94.40.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Tobacco Company and HVA Foods) whilst the sector index increased by 0.41%. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company edged up by Rs 0.25 (0.01%) to close at Rs 1,780.00. The share price of HVA Foods appreciated by Rs 0.30 (3.61%) to close at Rs 8.60.

Hayleys Fabric and Softlogic Capital were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hayleys Fabric moved up by Rs 0.70 (2.27%) to close at Rs 31.50. The share price of Softlogic Capital recorded a loss of Rs 0.50 (2.91%) to close at Rs 16.70.