Indices continue to close in red

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs 732 Mn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Ceylon Tobacco Company, Melstacorp and Sierra Cables. Mixed interest was observed in Browns Investments, Commercial Bank and John Keells Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, LOLC Finance and LVL Energy Fund. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers.

The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Tobacco Company, Melstacorp and Browns Investments) whilst the sector index lost 1.32%. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company decreased by Rs 25.25 (2.05%) to close at Rs 1,206.50. The share price of Melstacorp lost Rs 2.40 (3.07%) to close at Rs 75.70. The share price of Browns Investments moved down by Rs 0.10 (1.96%) to close at Rs 5.00.
The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 1.12%. The share price of John Keells
Holdings declined by Rs 1.25 (0.72%) to close at Rs 173.25.
The Commercial Bank was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a loss of Rs 2.70 (3.02%) to close at Rs 86.60.