Indices edge down

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylon Tobacco Company, Distilleries and John Keells Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 238 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Commercial Bank, Ceylinco Insurance, Chevron Lubricants and Hemas Holdings. Retail interest was noted in East West Properties. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in Commercial Bank and Central Finance Company. Total foreign purchases accounted for 53.3% of the turnover.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank, Central Finance Company and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.23%. The share price of Commercial Bank increased by Rs 1.00 (0.78%) closing at Rs 130.00 whilst foreign holdings increased by 480,270 shares. The share price of Central Finance Company gained Rs 2.00 (2.05%) closing at Rs 99.50 whilst foreign holdings increased by 425,000 shares. The share price of Sampath Bank moved down by Rs 1.00 (0.33%) to close at Rs 301.00.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hemas Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.35%. The share price of Hemas Holdings edged down of Rs 0.10 (0.09%) to close at Rs 106.00.

Chevron Lubricants was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Chevron Lubricants appreciated by Rs 0.60 (0.76%) to close at Rs 80.00.