Indices closed in red

Price losses in counters such as Nestle Lanka, Dialog Axiata and Bukit Darah resulted in ASPI closing in red whilst turnover crossed Rs 825 Mn. Similar behavior was witnessed in S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in C. W. Mackie, accounting for 42.7% of turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Textured Jersey Lanka, Chevron Lubricants and Singer Sri Lanka whilst retail interest was noted in Asia Capital and HVA Foods. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in John Keells Holdings.

Trading sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to C. W. Mackie) whilst the sector index lost 1.67%. The share price of C. W. Mackie increased by Rs 0.30 (0.50%) to close at Rs 60.00.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.12%. The share price of John Keells Holdings gained Rs 0.70 (0.44%) closing at Rs 161.10 whilst foreign holdings increased by 579,975 shares.

Ceylon Cold Stores, Hatton National Bank nonvoting and Tokyo Cement Company were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores moved up by Rs 12.20 (2.32%) to close at Rs 537.00. The share price of Hatton National Bank nonvoting closed flat at Rs 175.00. The share price of Tokyo Cement Company declined by Rs 0.30 (0.70%) to close at Rs 42.70.

Furthermore,c T Land Development announced itsfinal dividend of Rs 1.65 per share.