Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, SMB Leasing nonvoting and Browns Investments with the turnover crossing Rs 1.7 Bn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings, Piramal Glass and Renuka Foods (Rights). Mixed interest was observed in Royal Ceramics, John Keells Holdings and Ambeon Capital whilst retail interest was noted in LOLC Finance, SMB Leasing and Browns Investments. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hemas Holdings, Royal Ceramics and John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.55%. The share price of Hemas Holdings increased by Rs 1.00 (1.15%) to close at Rs 88.00. The share price of Royal Ceramics moved up by Rs 0.50 (1.37%) to close at Rs 36.90.

The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a loss of Rs 1.75 (0.87%) to close at Rs 207.00.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover whilst the sector index decreased by 0.23%.

Piramal Glass and Ambeon Capital were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Piramal Glass gained Rs 0.30 (1.03%) to close at Rs 29.30. The share price of Ambeon Capital appreciated by Rs 0.80 (5.97%) to close at Rs 14.20.