Foreign sales account for 80% of the turnover

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Ceylinco Insurance and Softlogic Holdings with the turnover crossing Rs 788 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. Crossings were witnessed in John Keells Holdings accounting for 61.8% of the turnover. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in John Keells Holdings. Total foreign sales accounted for 79.7% of the turnover.

Diversified sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.60%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 1.70 (1.22%) closing at Rs 138.20 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 3,698,950 shares.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Tobacco Company, Lion Brewery and Distilleries) whilst the sector index increased by 1.01%. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company gained Rs 30.10 (2.41%) to close at Rs 1,280.30. The share price of Lion Brewery moved up by Rs 14.10 (2.29%) to close at Rs 630.00. The share price of Distilleries closed flat at Rs 20.50.

Sampath Bank was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Sampath Bank declined by Rs 1.80 (0.64%) to close at Rs 278.20.