Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Commercial Bank and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs 484 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Distilleries, John Keells Holdings and HNB Assurance. Retail interest was noted in Browns Capital. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in John Keells Holdings. Total foreign sales accounted for 58.6% of turnover.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Distilleries) whilst the sector index gained 0.23%. The share price of Distilleries increased by Rs 0.40 (1.90%) to close at Rs 21.40.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Browns Capital) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.37%. The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs 1.30 (0.82%) closing at Rs 157.70 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 679,091 shares. The share price of Browns Capital closed flat at Rs 4.60. HNB Assurance and Sampath Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of HNB Assurance moved down by Rs 2.00 (1.96%) to close at Rs 100.00. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a gain of Rs 0.60 (0.20%) to close at Rs 298.90.

Furthermore, Dipped Products announced itsfirst and final dividend of Rs 3.00 per share.