Indices close on a mixed note

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters

such as LOLC Holdings, Nations Trust Bank and Asian Hotels & Properties with the turnover crossing Rs 540 Mn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Dialog Axiata, Distilleries, Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank and Seylan Bank nonvoting whilst retail interest was noted in Galadari Hotels. Furthermore, foreigners remained active closing as net sellers mainly due to foreign selling in Distilleries. Total foreign sales accounted for 45.3% of the turnover.

Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank, Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank) whilst the sector index lost 0.46%. The share price of Sampath Bank gained Rs 1.50 (0.91%) to close at Rs 166.50. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a loss of Rs 1.10 (0.64%) to close at Rs 171.00. The share price of Commercial Bank closed flat at Rs 98.00.

Telecommunications sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Dialog Axiata) whilst the sector index increased by 0.19%. The share price of Dialog Axiata increased by Rs 0.10 (0.89%) to close at Rs 11.30.

Distilleries was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Distilleries closed flat at Rs 16.50 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 3,290,820 shares.