Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as LOLC Holdings, Distilleries and Vallibel One with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.9 bn.

A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was remained subdued for the day. Mixed interest was observed in Sampath Bank, Haycarb and Hayleys, whilst retail interest was noted in Vallibel One, Expolanka Holdings and Dipped Products.

Foreign participation in the market remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank and Hatton National Bank), whilst the sector index lost 1.15%.

The share price of Sampath Bank decreased by Rs 2.00 (1.28%) closing at Rs. 154.50 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 3,736,236 shares. The share price of Hatton National Bank declined by Rs. 3.25 (2.44%) to close at Rs. 129.75.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover, whilst the sector index decreased by 1.28%. Expolanka Holdings, Browns Investments and Dipped Products were also included amongst the top turnover contributors.

The share price of Expolanka Holdings lost Rs. 1.10 (2.34%) to close at Rs. 46.00.

Furthermore, the share price of Browns Investments moved down by Rs. 0.10 (1.75%) to close at Rs. 5.60, whilst the share price of Dipped Products recorded a loss of Rs. 2.20 (4.49%) to close at Rs. 46.80.