Crossings account for~65% of the turnover

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Dialog Axiata, Lanka Orix Leasing Company and Access Engineering with the turnover crossing Rs 729 Mn. Crossings were witnessed in Ceylon Tobacco Company, National Development Bank and Teejay Lanka, accounting for 64.6% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Access Engineering and Seylan Bank whilst retail interest was noted in MTD Walkers. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers. Total foreign purchases accounted for 64.9% of the turnover.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Tobacco Company) whilst the sector index lost 0.13%. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company closed flat at Rs 1,424.00

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to National Development Bank and Seylan Bank ) whilst the sector index decreased by 1.06%. The share price of National Development Bank lost Rs 2.50 (2.43%) to close at Rs 100.30. The share price of Seylan Bank declined by Rs 2.10 (2.91%) to close at Rs 70.00

Teejay Lanka and Access Engineering were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Teejay Lanka moved down by Rs 0.40 (1.22%) to close at Rs 32.50. The share price of Access Engineering recorded a loss of Rs 1.60 (9.20%) to close at Rs 15.80.

Meanwhile, Bairaha Farms announced an interim dividend of Rs 4.00 per share.