Full Stock Market

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Distilleries and Central Finance Company with the turnover crossing Rs 810 Mn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. Crossings were witnessed in Ceylon Tobacco Company, Commercial Bank and Piramal Glass, accounting for 59.7% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Orient Finance whilst retail interest was noted in MTD Walkers.

Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in John Keells Holdings. Total foreign sales accounted for 82.7% of the turnover.

During the week, the ASPI edged up by 0.06% whilst the S&P SL20 increased by 0.86%. The average daily turnover for the week was recorded at Rs 659 Mn.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Orient Finance) whilst the sector index lost 0.21%. The share price of Commercial Bank closed flat at Rs 114.00. The share price of Orient Finance declined by Rs 0.40 (2.41%) to close at Rs 16.20.

Beverage, Food and Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Tobacco Company) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.23%. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company closed flat at Rs 1,430.00.

John Keells Holdings and Piramal Glass were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved down by Rs 1.90 (1.20%) closing at Rs 156.00 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 1,261,380 shares.

The share price of Piramal Glass recorded a gain of Rs 0.10 (2.70%) to close at Rs 3.80.

Furthermore, Vallibel Power Erathna announced an interim dividend of Rs 0.40 per share.