Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Ceylon Tobacco Company and Ceylon Cold Stores with the turnover crossing Rs 424 Mn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Ceylon Cold Stores, Hayleys, John Keells Holdings and Ceylon Hospitals. Mixed interest was observed in Access Engineering and Melstacorp. Furthermore, foreigners closed as net buyers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hayleys, John Keells Holdings and Access Engineering) whilst the sector index lost 1.32%. The share price of Hayleys closed flat at Rs 160.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved down by Rs 2.90 (1.86%) to close at Rs 152.60. The share price of Access Engineering declined by Rs 0.30 (1.44%) to close at Rs 20.50.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Cold Stores) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.70%. The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores decreased by Rs 19.60 (2.42%) to close at Rs 790.00. Ceylon Hospitals was also included amongst the top turnover

contributors. The share price of Ceylon Hospitals recorded a loss of Rs 1.00 (1.15%) to close at Rs 86.00.

Furthermore, Chevron Lubricants announced an interim dividend of Rs 2.00 per share whilst Seylan Bank and Seylan Developments announced their first and final dividends of Rs 1.00 and Rs 1.10 per share respectively. Commercial Development Company and Hatton National Bank announced their final dividends of Rs 4.00 and Rs 3.50 per share respectively.