Indices close in red

ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as CT Holdings, Nestle Lanka and Melstacorp. A similar behavior was witnessed in S&P SL20. The turnover crossed Rs 334 Mn for the day. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in John Keells Holdings, Commercial Bank and Nestle Lanka whilst mixed interest was observed in Richard Peiris & Company. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers. Total foreign purchases accounted for 42.4% of turnover.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank, Lanka Orix Leasing Company and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index edged up 0.03%. The share price of Commercial Bank lost Rs 0.20 (0.15%) to close at Rs 137.00. The share price of Lanka Orix Leasing Company recorded a gain of Rs 4.20 (3.87%) to close at Rs 112.60. The share price of Sampath Bank increased by Rs 1.60 (0.55%) to close at Rs 295.00.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.29%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 1.50 (0.94%) to close at Rs 161.50.

Nestle Lanka was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Nestle Lanka moved down by Rs 41.90 (2.21%) to close at Rs 1,850.00.

Furthermore,elpitiya Plantations announced its first & final dividend of Rs 1.00 per share.