ASPI loses after seven consecutive days of gains

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Richard Pieris & Company, DFCC Bank and Commercial Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.8 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Sampath Bank, Cargills and Cargills Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Lanka Milk Foods, Pan Asia Banking Corporation and Access Engineering whilst retail interest was noted in Tess Agro, LOLC Finance and Hikkaduwa Beach Resort. Foreign participation in the market activity 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 Pan Asia Banking Corporation) whilst the sector index lost 0.36%. The share price of Sampath Bank increased by Rs 1.50 (1.71%) to close at Rs 89.40. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation recorded a gain of Rs 0.20 (0.77%) to close at Rs 26.30.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Melstacorp and Lanka Milk Foods) whilst the sector index increased by 0.48%. The share price of Melstacorp gained Rs 5.20 (5.24%) to close at Rs 104.50. The share price of Lanka Milk Foods moved up by Rs 1.00 (3.23%) to close at Rs 32.00.

Cargills was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Cargills appreciated by Rs 0.75 (0.19%) to close at Rs 395.00.

Furthermore, Vidullanka announced its interim dividend of Rs 0.20 per share.