Indices continue to close in red

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 900 mn. 
High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Melstacorp, John Keells Holdings, and Hemas Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, Sampath Bank and Pan Asia Banking Corporation whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, Browns Investments and LOLC Finance. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Melstacorp) whilst the sector index lost 0.44%. 

The share price of Melstacorp closed flat at Rs. 86.90. The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 2.36%.   The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 3.50 (2.02%) to close at Rs. 170.00. The share price of Sampath Bank declined by Rs. 2.00 (2.87%) to close at Rs. 67.80. Hemas Holdings and John Keells Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. 

The share price of Hemas Holdings lost Rs. 0.80 (0.99%) to close at Rs. 80.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved down by Rs. 2.25 (1.19%) to close at Rs. 187.00.