Crossings drive turnover

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Sampath Bank, Commercial Bank and National Development Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.3 bn. 
Crossings were witnessed in Sampath Bank, John Keells Holdings, People’s Leasing & Finance and Hayleys accounting for 46.6% of the turnover. 

Mixed interest was observed in First Capital Holdings and Sri Lanka Telecom whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, First Capital Treasuries and LOLC Finance. 
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) whilst the sector index lost 2.09%. The share price of Sampath Bank decreased by Rs. 1.90 (2.84%) to close at Rs. 65.00. 

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.44%. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs. 0.75 (0.39%) to close at Rs. 192.00. People’s Leasing & Finance, First Capital Holdings and Sri Lanka Telecom were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. 

The share price of People’s Leasing & Finance moved down by Rs. 0.50 (4.67%) to close at Rs. 10.20. The share price of First Capital Holdings recorded a loss of Rs. 3.20 (6.35%) to close at Rs. 47.20. The share price of Sri Lanka Telecom declined by Rs. 1.00 (0.98%) to close at Rs. 101.00.