Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Sampath Bank, Richard Pieris & Company and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.3 bn.

 A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings, Diesel & Motor Engineering and LOLC Holdings. 

Mixed interest was observed in Access Engineering, ACL Cables and John Keells Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Lanka Credit and Business Finance, LOLC Finance and HNB Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. 

The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hemas Holdings, Access Engineering and ACL Cables) whilst the sector index lost 0.81%. The share price of Hemas Holdings decreased by Rs. 0.20 (0.56%) to close at Rs. 35.50. The share price of Access Engineering recorded a loss of Rs. 0.70 (0.99%) to close at Rs. 69.90. The share price of ACL Cables declined by Rs. 1.75 (0.79%) to close at Rs. 219.00. 

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to LOLC Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.64%. The share price of LOLC Holdings edged down by Rs. 0.50 (0.09%) to close at Rs. 550.00. 

Diesel & Motor Engineering was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Diesel & Motor Engineering lost Rs. 111.00 (4.86%) to close at Rs. 2,174.50.