Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Ceylon Tobacco Company and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 161 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Lion Brewery and Chevron Lubricants. Mixed interest was observed in Distilleries and Sampath Bank whilst retail interest was noted in East West Properties. Furthermore,foreigners closed as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in Chevron Lubricants and Central Finance Company.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank and Central Finance Company) whilst the sector index lost 0.14%. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a loss of Rs 1.80 (0.60%) to close at Rs 298.00. The share price of Central Finance Company closed flat at Rs 99.50 whilst foreign holdings increased by 102,654 shares.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Lion Brewery and Distilleries) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.29%. The share price of Lion Brewery edged up by Rs 0.50 (0.08%) to close at Rs 600.00. The share price of Distilleries closed flat at Rs 20.50.

Chevron Lubricants was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Chevron Lubricants increased by Rs 4.00 (4.83%) closing at Rs 86.90 whilst foreign holdings increased by 146,967 shares.

Furthermore, Vallibel Power Erathna announced its interim dividend of Rs 0.30 per share.