Indices close on a negative note

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylon Tobacco Company, Sampath Bank and National Development Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 3.6 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, LOLC Holdings and John Keells Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Dialog Axiata,

Hemas Holdings and Hatton National Bank whilst retail interest was noted in People’s Leasing & Finance, Ceylon Land & Equity and LOLC Finance. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net buyers.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index lost 0.92%. The share price of Commercial Bank lost Rs 1.50 (0.99%) to close at Rs 150.25. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a loss of Rs 1.75 (0.51%) to close at Rs 339.50.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hemas Holdings and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.82%. The share price of Hemas Holdings moved down by Rs 1.00 (0.81%) to close at Rs 122.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings declined by Rs 0.10 (0.45%) to close at Rs 22.20.

Dialog Axiata was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dialog Axiata closed flat at Rs 14.00.