Indices close on a mixed note

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Expolanka Holdings, Vallibel One and DFCC Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 1.0 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was remained subdued for the day. Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, LOLC Holdings and Lanka IOC, whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, SMB Leasing and LOLC Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

Transportation sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Expolanka Holdings), whilst the sector index lost 2.80%. The share price of Expolanka Holdings decreased by Rs 4.75 (2.8%) to close at Rs 164.75.

Diversified Financials sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to LOLC Holdings and LOLC Finance), whilst the sector index increased by 3.87%. The share price of LOLC Holdings gained Rs 36.75 (8.40%) to close at Rs 474.25. The share price of LOLC Finance declined by Rs 0.10 (1.47%) to close at Rs 6.70.

Lanka IOC and Browns Investments were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka IOC moved up by Rs 8.10 (32.14%) to close at Rs 33.30. The share price of Browns Investments recorded a loss of Rs 0.10 (1.64%) to close at Rs 6.00.

Furthermore, Harischandra Mills announced an interim dividend of Rs 25.00 per share. Union Chemicals Lanka announced a final dividend of Rs 10.00 per share.