Full Stock Market

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as LOLC Holdings, Nestle Lanka and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 1.7 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hayleys and Expolanka Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Browns Investments, LOLC Holdings and John Keells Holdings, whilst retail interest was noted in Dipped Products, Royal Ceramics and LB Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

During the month, the ASPI gained 5.87% and the S&P SL20 lost 0.35%, whilst recording an average daily turnover of Rs 2.21 Bn.

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings), whilst the sector index lost 0.74%. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a loss of Rs 0.25 (0.18%) closing at Rs 135.25 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 320,715 shares.

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to LOLC Holdings), whilst the sector index increased by 2.02%.

The share price of LOLC Holdings moved down by Rs 7.25 (1.80%) to close at Rs 394.50.

Browns Investments, Expolanka Holdings and Hatton National Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Browns Investments decreased by Rs 0.10 (1.67%) to close at Rs 5.90. The share price of Expolanka Holdings gained Rs 0.30 (0.60%) to close at Rs 50.10. The share price of Hatton National Bank declined by Rs 1.50 (1.11%) to close at Rs 134.00.

Furthermore, Panasian Power, Prime Lands Residencies and Hatton Plantations announced their interim dividends of Rs 0.14, Rs 0.40 and Rs 0.50 per share respectively. Printcare and Malwatte Valley Plantations announced their final dividends of Rs 1.00 and Rs 0.10 per share respectively.