Indices close in red after 11 sessions of gains

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, LOLC Holdings and National Development Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.2 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Hayleys. Mixed interest was observed in Hatton National Bank, Nations Trust Bank and Vallibel One whilst retail interest was noted in LVL Energy Fund, Browns Investments and Hela Apparel Holdings Limited. 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, Commercial Bank, Hatton National Bank and Nations Trust Bank ) whilst the sector index gained 0.43%. The share price of Sampath Bank increased by Rs. 1.30 (1.66%) to close at Rs. 79.80. The share price of Commercial
Bank gained Rs 1.50 (1.45%) to close at Rs. 104.75. The share price of Hatton National Bank moved up by Rs. 0.50 (0.23%) to close at Rs. 214.75. The share price of Nations Trust Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 0.25 (0.19%) to close at Rs. 128.75.
Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Vallibel One) whilst the sector index decreased by 1.22%. The share price of Vallibel One declined by Rs. 0.40 (0.75%) to close at Rs. 52.60.