Week ends on mixed note

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylon Tobacco Company, Sri Lanka Telecom and Lanka Orix Leasing Company with the turnover crossing Rs 346 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Hatton National Bank, John Keells Holdings, National Development Bank, Sampath Bank and Renuka Agri Foods. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in John Keells Holdings.

During the week, the ASPI lost 0.39% and the S&P SL20 gained 0.49%. Meanwhile, average daily turnover for the week was recorded at Rs 1.7 Bn.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank, National Development Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.01%. The share price of Hatton National Bank lost Rs 0.80 (0.37%) to close at Rs 214.00. The share price of National Development Bank moved down by Rs 1.80 (1.73%) to close at Rs 102.40. The share price of Sampath Bank recorded a gain of Rs 0.70 (0.31%) to close at Rs 230.20.

Diversified sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.21%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs 0.60 (0.39%) closing at Rs 152.90 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 307,873 shares.

Renuka Agri Foods was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Renuka Agri Foods appreciated by Rs 0.10 (5.26%) to close at Rs 2.00.

Furthermore, On’ally Holdings and Commercial Development Company announced their interim dividends of Rs 1.20 and Rs 2.00 per share respectively.