Indices close on a negative note

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Commercial Bank and

Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 6.5 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Ceylon Land & Equity, John Keells Holdings and Hatton National Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Commercial Bank, Prime Lands Residencies and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Cargills Bank Rights, Browns Investments and Softlogic Finance.Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to CeylSon Land & Equity and Ceylon Land & Equity PLC Rights) whilst the sector index lost 3.40%. The share price of Ceylon Land & Equity decreased by Rs 1.40 (12.17%) to close at Rs 10.10. The share price of Ceylon Land & Equity PLC Rights recorded a loss of Rs 2.40 (53.33%) to close at Rs 2.10.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 3.82%. The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs 1.00 (5.00%) to close at Rs 19.00. Commercial Bank and Prime Lands Residencies were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Commercial Bank moved down by Rs 6.25 (3.05%) to close at Rs 198.50. The share price of Prime Lands Residencies declined by Rs 3.80 (7.58%) to close at Rs 46.30.