Indices close on a mixed note

The ASPI edged up as a result of price gains in counters such as Ceylinco Insurance, Melstacorp and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 320 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged down. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Central Finance Company. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, LOLC Holdings and CIC Holdings nonvoting whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, Browns Investments and Dialog Axiata. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Central Finance Company and LOLC Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.31%. The share price of Central Finance Company closed flat at Rs 105.25. The share price of LOLC Holdings moved down by Rs 0.75 (0.19%) to close at Rs 399.75.
The capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.28%. The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs 0.25 (0.14%) to close at Rs 179.25.
CIC Holdings nonvoting and National Development Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of CIC Holdings nonvoting recorded a loss of Rs 0.20 (0.40%) to close at Rs 49.60. The share price of the National Development Bank declined by Rs 0.10 (0.14%) to close at Rs 69.00.