Week begins in red

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, National Development Bank and Hayleys with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.1 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, Sampath Bank and Lanka Realty Investments. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka IOC, Browns Investments and Lanka Milk Foods whilst retail interest was noted in LOLC Finance, Co- Operative Insurance Company and HNB Finance. 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) whilst the sector index lost 2.05%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 0.40 (2.17%) to close at Rs 18.00.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 1.17%. The share price of Sampath Bank lost Rs 0.75 (0.48%) to close at Rs 155.50.

Lanka IOC, Browns Investments and Lanka Milk Foods were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka IOC moved up by Rs 0.75 (0.54%) to close at Rs 140.00. The share price of Browns Investments recorded a gain of Rs 0.30 (5.26%) to close at Rs 6.00. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods declined by Rs 3.20 (3.85%) to close at Rs 79.90.