Crossings boost turnover

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Dialog Axiata and Softlogic Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 924 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in Teejay Lanka accounting for 52.5% of turnover. Retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, Browns Capital and Lanka IOC. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Teejay Lanka. Total foreign sales accounted for 80.0% of turnover.

Manufacturing sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Teejay Lanka) whilst the sector index lost 0.15%. The share price of Teejay Lanka increased by Rs 0.40 (1.35%) closing at Rs 30.10 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 8,548,612 shares.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings, Hemas Holdings and Melstacorp) whilst the sector index decreased by 1.16%. The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs 2.00 (1.23%) to close at Rs 160.00. The share price of Hemas Holdings edged down by Rs 0.10 (0.08%) to close at Rs 125.00. The share price of Melstacorp closed flat at Rs 58.00.

Sampath Bank was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Sampath Bank declined by Rs 0.80 (0.27%) to close at Rs 298.50.

Furthermore, Haycarb announced its first and final dividend of Rs 6.00 per share.