Week begins in red

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Hatton National Bank, Melstacorp and Hayleys with the turnover crossing Rs. 824 Mn. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, Nations Trust Bank and Union Assurance whilst retail interest was noted in Hela Apparel Holdings, HNB Finance Rights and Waskaduwa Beach Resort. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank, Nations Trust Bank and Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index lost 0.66%. The share price of Sampath Bank decreased by Rs 0.50 (0.41%) to close at Rs 120.00. The share price of Nations Trust Bank lost Rs 1.00 (0.51%) to close at Rs 197.00. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a loss of Rs 3.25 (1.03%) to close at Rs 311.00.

The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Browns Investments) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.35%. The share price of Browns Investments declined by Rs 0.10 (1.27%) to close at Rs 7.80.

Union Assurance was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Union Assurance moved up by Rs 0.30 (0.45%) to close at Rs 66.40.