Indices close flat

The ASPI and the S&P SL20 closed flat for the day with the turnover crossing Rs 278 Mn. Crossings were noted in Ceylon Tobacco Company and John Keells Holdings, accounting for 61.4% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Melstacorp, Teejay Lanka and Vallibel Finance. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in Ceylon Tobacco Company and Melstacorp. Total foreign purchases accounted for 60.7% of the turnover.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Tobacco Company and Lion Brewery) whilst the sector index lost 0.27%. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company closed flat at Rs 1,400.00 whilst foreign holdings increased by 38,000 shares. The share price of Lion Brewery recorded a loss of Rs 13.90 (2.34%) to close at Rs 580.00. Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Melstacorp) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.02%. The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs 0.70 (0.45%) to close at Rs 154.00.

The share price of Melstacorp moved up by Rs 1.00 (2.22%) closing at Rs 46.00 whilst foreign holdings increased by 577,714 shares. Teejay Lanka was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Teejay Lanka declined by Rs. 0.20 (0.58%) to close at Rs 34.50.