Market closes on a mixed note

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Lion Brewery, Overseas Realty and Dialog Axiata with the turnover crossing Rs 246 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Lion Brewery. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, Commercial Bank and Asian Hotels & Properties. Furthermore,foreigners closed as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in Lion Brewery and Commercial Bank.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank, Singer Finance and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.07%. The share price of Sampath Bank edged up by Rs 0.10 (0.04%) to close at Rs 277.10. The share price of Singer Finance closed flat at Rs 14.10.

The share price of Commercial Bank appreciated by Rs 0.90 (0.74%) closing at Rs 121.90 whilst foreign holdings increased by 92,500 shares.

Hotels and Travels sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Asian Hotels & Properties) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.34%. The share price of Asian Hotels & Properties moved down by Rs 1.80 (4.83%) to close at Rs 35.50.

Lion Brewery was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lion Brewery lost Rs 16.60 (2.57%) closing at Rs 630.00 whilst foreign holdings increased by 18,375 shares.