Full Stock Market

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Hatton National Bank, John Keells Holdings and Union Assurance with the turnover crossing Rs 333 Mn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Sampath Bank and Hemas Holdings. Retail interest was noted in East West Properties.

Furthermore, foreigners closed as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Sampath Bank and Hemas Holdings. Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index lost 0.98%. The share price of Sampath Bank decreased by Rs 1.60 (1.04%) closing at Rs 152.20 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 288,455 shares.

Land and Property sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to East West Properties) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.54%. The share price of East West Properties gained Rs 0.30 (1.57%) to close at Rs 19.40. Hemas Holdings, John Keells Holdings and Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors.

The share price of Hemas Holdings moved down by Rs 0.20 (0.28%) closing at Rs 71.80 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 405,701 shares. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a loss of Rs 1.10 (0.79%) to close at Rs 138.40. The share price of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings declined by Rs 0.50 (2.38%) to close at Rs 20.50.

Furthermore, East West Properties announced its interim dividend of Rs 8.50 per share whilst Keells Food Products announced its final dividend of Rs 2.00 per share.

Meanwhile, Lanka IOC announced its first and final dividend of Rs 0.75 per share.