Indices close on a negative note

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Melstacorp and Nations Trust 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 Dialog Axiata, ACL Cables and Commercial Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in Asia Siyaka Commodities, Access Engineering and ACME Printing & Packaging whilst retail interest was noted in Co-Operative Insurance Company, Browns Investments and HVA Foods. 

Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to ACL Cables, Access Engineering and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.91%. The share price of ACL Cables gained Rs. 1.50 (1.48%) to close at Rs. 103.00. 

The share price of Access Engineering recorded a gain of Rs. 1.10 (1.46%) to close at Rs. 76.30. The share price of John Keells Holdings declined by Rs. 0.50 (2.21%) to close at Rs. 22.10. Telecommunication Services sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Dialog Axiata) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.02%. The share price of Dialog Axiata decreased by Rs. 0.10 (0.30%) to close at Rs. 32.80. 

Asia Siyaka Commodities was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Asia Siyaka Commodities moved up by Rs. 1.90 (11.88%) to close at Rs. 17.90.