Indices continue to close on a mixed note

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as SMB Leasing nonvoting, DFCC Bank and National Development Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.9 bn.

Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings and Melstacorp. 

Mixed interest was observed in Hikkaduwa Beach Resort, Sampath Bank and Hela Apparel Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in LOLC Finance, Waskaduwa Beach Resort and Citrus Leisure. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. 
The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index gained 0.47%. The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs. 1.75 (0.89%) to close at Rs. 199.00. 

The Consumer Services sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hikkaduwa Beach Resort) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.67%. The share price of Hikkaduwa Beach Resort lost Rs. 0.60 (14.63%) to close at Rs. 3.50. Sampath Bank, Hela Apparel Holdings and Melstacorp were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. 

The share price of Sampath Bank moved up by Rs. 0.40 (0.48%) to close at Rs. 82.90. The share price of Hela Apparel Holdings closed flat at Rs. 7.20. The share price of Melstacorp closed flat at Rs. 90.00.