Indices close on a mixed note

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylinco Insurance, Commercial Bank and Browns Investments with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.0 bn. 

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. Crossings were witnessed in Sampath Bank and Pan Asia Banking Corporation accounting for 43.3% of the turnover. 

Mixed interest was observed in Hayleys, Melstacorp and John Keells Holdings, whilst retail interest was noted in Nation Lanka Finance, LOLC Finance and SMB Leasing. 

Furthermore, foreigners closed as net buyers. The Banking sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank and Pan Asia Banking Corporation) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.11%. 
The share price of Sampath Bank increased by Rs. 0.60 (0.78%) to close at Rs. 77.80. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation gained Rs. 0.10 (0.48%) to close at Rs. 21.00. Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hayleys and Hemas Holdings) whilst the sector index increased by 0.44%. The share price of Hayleys closed flat at Rs. 101.25. The share price of Hemas Holdings closed flat at Rs. 81.40. 

Melstacorp was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Melstacorp declined by Rs. 0.40 (0.47%) to close at Rs. 85.00.