Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Trans Asia Hotels, Distilleries and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 172 Mn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional

investor participation was witnessed in Central Finance

Company and John Keells Holdings. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Central Finance Company.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Central Finance Company) whilst

the sector index lost 0.26%. The share price of Central Finance Company edged up by Rs 0.10 (0.11%) closing at Rs 90.20 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 500,000 shares.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.20%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 1.00 (0.65%) to close at Rs 154.00.

Overseas Realty, Royal Ceramics and Chevron Lubricants were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Overseas Realty moved up by Rs 0.30 (1.94%) to close at Rs 15.80.

The share price of Royal Ceramics recorded a loss of Rs 0.10 (0.14%) to close at Rs 68.90. The share price of

Chevron Lubricants declined by Rs 4.60 (6.11%) to close at Rs 70.70.

Furthermore, Seylan Bank announced its first and final dividend of Rs 0.50 per share for both voting and nonvoting shareholders.