Indices close on a mixed note

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Ceylinco Insurance, LOLC Holdings and SMB Leasing nonvoting with the turnover crossing Rs 547 Mn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Sampath Bank, Melstacorp and Pan Asia Banking Corporation. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Prime Lands Residencies and ACL Cables whilst retail interest was noted in Nation Lanka Finance, SMB Leasing nonvoting and Marawila Resorts. 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 gained 0.27%. The share price of Sampath Bank increased by Rs 0.90 (1.17%) to close at Rs 77.90. The share price of Pan Asia Banking Corporation moved up by Rs 0.20 (1.01%) to close at Rs 20.00.

Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index edged up by 0.03%. The share price of John Keells  Holdings recorded a loss of Rs 0.25 (0.14%) to close at Rs 182.25. 

Melstacorp and Prime Lands Residencies were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Melstacorp lost Rs 0.20 (0.24%) to close at Rs 81.70. The share price of Prime Lands Residencies appreciated by Rs 0.20 (2.41%) to close at Rs 8.50.