Indices close in red

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Commercial Bank, Dialog Axiata and Colombo Dockyard with the turnover crossing Rs. 3.8 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in CIC Holdings, Vallibel One and Hemas Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Sampath
Bank and hSenid Business Solutions whilst retail interest was noted in JF Packaging Limited, Renuka Agri Foods and Browns Investments. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. Materials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to JF Packaging Limited and CIC Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.44%. The share price of JF Packaging Limited increased by Rs 3.50 (30.17%) to close at Rs 15.10. The share price of CIC Holdings lost Rs 0.40 (1.20%) to close at Rs 33.00. Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Hayleys) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.09%. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs 0.10 (0.44%) to close at Rs 22.70. The share price of Hayleys closed flat at Rs 195.00.
hSenid Business Solutions was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of hSenid Business Solutions appreciated by Rs 1.20 (7.06%) to close at Rs 18.20.