Indices close in red

ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylon Cold Stores, Sri Lanka Telecom and Lion Brewery. A similar behavior was witnessed in S&P SL20. The turnover crossed Rs 596 Mn for the day. Crossings were witnessed in Cargills, Sampath Bank and Nestle Lanka. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Cargills and Nestle Lanka. Total foreign sales accounted for 41.0% of turnover.

During the week, ASPI and S&P SL20 lost 1.08% and 1.71% respectively. Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Cargills and Nestle Lanka) whilst the sector index lost 1.12%. The share price of Cargills gained Rs 0.60 (0.29%) closing at Rs 204.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 449,000 shares. The share price of Nestle Lanka moved down by Rs 1.60 (0.10%) closing at Rs 1,625.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 17,985 shares.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.42%. The share price of Sampath Bank closed flat at Rs 345.00.

Namunukula Plantations and Watawala Plantations were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Namunukula Plantations recorded a gain of Rs 3.90 (4.53%) to close at Rs 90.00. The share price of Watawala Plantations increased by Rs 1.40 (5.07%) to close at Rs 29.00.