Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Lanka Orix Leasing Company and Ceylon Tobacco Company with the turnover crossing Rs 566 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Cargills, John Keells Holdings and Melstacorp. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank and Teejay Lanka whilst retail interest was noted in Dialog Axiata and Nations Trust Bank. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in John Keells Holdings and Melstacorp. Total foreign sales accounted for 62.0% of the turnover.

Diversified sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Melstacorp) whilst the sector index lost 2.18%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 4.90 (3.39%) closing at Rs 139.80 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 1,283,467 shares. The share price of Melstacorp lost Rs 1.00 (1.96%) closing at Rs 50.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 1,503,116 shares.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.66%. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a loss of Rs 4.10 (1.37%) to close at Rs 295.00.

Cargills and Lion Brewery were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Cargills moved up by Rs 0.40 (0.20%) to close at Rs 200.00. The share price of Lion Brewery declined by Rs 6.30 (1.11%) to close at Rs 563.70.

Furthermore, ACL Cables announced its interim dividend of Rs 1.50 per share.