Foreign buying continues

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Melstacorp, John Keells Holdings and Central Finance Company with the turnover crossing Rs. 513 mn. 

A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank. 

Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Ceylon Cold Stores and Nations Trust Bank whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, SMB Leasing nonvoting and Vallibel Power Erathna. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank, Nations Trust Bank and Pan Asia Banking Corporation) whilst the sector index lost 1.03%. 

The share price of Commercial Bank moved down by Rs. 0.80 (0.89%) to close at Rs. 89.30. The share price of Nations Trust Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 2.50 (2.14%) to close at Rs. 114.50. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation declined by Rs. 0.20 (1.04%) to close at Rs. 19.00. 

The food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Cold Stores) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.84%. 

The share price of Ceylon Cold Stores lost Rs. 1.10 (2.05%) to close at Rs. 52.50. John Keells Holdings was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs. 3.00 (1.69%) to close at Rs. 174.50.