Indices closed in red

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Melstacorp, Sampath Bank and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 8.4 bn. 

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Access Engineering, Amana Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in Browns Investments, Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, LVL Energy Fund and Agstar. 

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 John Keells Holdings and Access Engineering) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.01%. 

The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs. 0.30 (1.31%) to close at Rs. 22.60. The share price of Access Engineering gained Rs. 2.60 (6.88%) to close at Rs. 40.40. 

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Amana Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.98%. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 1.75 (1.17%) to close at Rs. 148.00. 

The share price of Amana Bank appreciated by Rs. 0.20 (0.79%) to close at Rs. 25.40. Browns Investments was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Browns Investments moved up by Rs. 0.20 (2.20%) to close at Rs. 9.30.