Indices close in red

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Richard Pieris & Company, Central Finance Company and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs. 4.8 bn. 

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Cargills Bank, Renuka Foods and Commercial Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in Lanka Milk Foods, Colombo Dockyard and Softlogic Capital whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, UB Finance Company and HNB Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. 

The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Cargills Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.29%. The share price of Cargills Bank closed flat at Rs. 9.70. The share price of Commercial Bank appreciated by Rs. 0.50 (0.22%) to close at Rs. 228.50. 

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Renuka Foods and Lanka Milk Foods) whilst the sector index increased by 0.16%. 

The share price of Renuka Foods lost Rs. 0.90 (1.27%) to close at Rs. 69.80. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods moved up by Rs. 5.70 (7.44%) to close at Rs. 82.30. Colombo Dockyard was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Colombo Dockyard recorded a gain of Rs. 5.25 (3.55%) to close at Rs. 153.00.