Full Stock Market

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylon Cold Stores, Commercial Leasing & Finance and Dialog Axiata with the turnover crossing Rs 444 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 closed in red. Crossings were witnessed in John Keells Holdings, accounting for 61.6% of the turnover. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net buyers mainly due to foreign purchasing in John Keells Holdings. Total foreign purchases

accounted for 63.3% of the turnover.

Diversified sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings and Browns Investments) whilst the sector index gained 0.21%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 0.50 (0.36%) closing at Rs 137.50 whilst foreign holdings increased by 1,310,022 shares. The share price of Browns Investments appreciated by Rs 0.20 (14.29%) to close at Rs 1.60.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.24%. The share price of Sampath Bank moved down by Rs 0.90 (0.65%) to close at Rs 138.10. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a gain of Rs 0.40 (0.44%) to close at Rs 90.50.

Ceylon Hospitals nonvoting was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Ceylon Hospitals nonvoting lost Rs 4.00 (5.52%) to close at Rs 68.50.

Furthermore, Central Finance, LB Finance and Samson International announced their final dividends of Rs 0.70, Rs 4.00 and Rs 2.00 respectively. Meanwhile, Diesel & Motor Engineering and United Motors Lanka announced their first and final dividends of Rs 2.50 and Rs 4.00 respectively.