Week begins in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as R I L Property, C T Holdings and Dialog Axiata with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.1 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Access Engineering, Janashakthi Insurance Company and Central Finance Company. Mixed interest was observed in Softlogic Finance, Hikkaduwa Beach Resort and Softlogic Capital whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, Waskaduwa Beach Resort and Co-Operative Insurance Company. 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 Softlogic Holdings and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.51%. The share price of Softlogic Holdings recorded a gain of Rs 0.60 (3.51%) to close at Rs 17.70. The share price of John Keells Holdings closed flat at Rs 20.40.

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Softlogic Finance and Softlogic Capital) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.76%. The share price of Softlogic Finance increased by Rs 0.90 (11.25%) to close at Rs 8.90. The share price of Softlogic Capital moved down by Rs 0.10 (0.58%) to close at Rs 17.00.

Hikkaduwa Beach Resort was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hikkaduwa Beach Resort gained Rs 0.80 (13.79%) to close at Rs 6.60.