Indices closed on a mixed note

The ASPI closed in green as a result of price gains in counters such as Melstacorp, Seylan Bank and Ceylon Tobacco Company with the turnover crossing Rs. 5.2 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged down. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hatton National Bank, Hatton National Bank nonvoting and The Lighthouse Hotel. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, ACL Cables and Softlogic Finance whilst retail interest was noted in Agarapatana Plantations, BPPL Holdings and Citrus Leisure. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings, Access Engineering and ACL Cables) whilst the sector index lost 0.64%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 0.30 (1.23%) to close at Rs 24.10. The share price of Access Engineering recorded a loss of Rs 0.30 (0.50%) to close at Rs 60.20. The share price of ACL Cables appreciated by Rs 6.50 (3.66%) to close at Rs 184.25.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank nonvoting and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index increased by 0.38%. The share price of Hatton National Bank nonvoting lost Rs 1.00 (0.34%) to close at Rs 293.00. The share price of Hatton National Bank edged up by Rs 0.25 (0.07%) to close at Rs 361.75.