Indices close in red

The price losses in counters such as Ceylon Cold Stores, Sri Lanka Telecom and Trans Asia Hotels resulted in ASPI closing in red whilst turnover crossed Rs 382 Mn. Similar behavior was witnessed in S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in Tokyo Cement Company and Chevron Lubricants. Mixed interest was observed in Access Engineering. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in John Keells Holdings and Commercial Bank.

Manufacturing sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Chevron Lubricants and Tokyo Cement Company) whilst the sector index lost 0.71%. The share price of Chevron Lubricants lost Rs 1.40 (0.82%) to close at Rs 170.30. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company moved up by Rs 0.10 (0.16%) to close at Rs 62.00.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.11%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 0.30 (0.21%) closing at Rs 142.00 whilst foreign holdings increased by 657,322 shares.

Commercial Bank and Hatton National Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a gain of Rs 0.10 (0.07%) closing at Rs 143.10 whilst foreign holdings increased by 186,222 shares. The share price of Hatton National Bank increased by Rs 0.90 (0.39%) to close at Rs 231.00.

Furthermore, Printcare announced an interim dividend of Rs 0.40 per share whilst Ceylinco Insurance announced its first & final dividend of Rs 27.50 per share.