Week begins on a mixed note

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as Hayleys, Central Finance Company and Royal Ceramics with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.4 Bn. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 edged up. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Dialog Axiata, Hatton National Bank and Commercial Bank nonvoting. Mixed interest was observed in ACL Cables, John Keells Holdings and Kelani Cables whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, Browns Investments and Lanka Credit and Business Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. The Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to ACL Cables, John Keells Holdings and Kelani Cables) whilst the sector index edged down by 0.01%. The share price of ACL Cables gained Rs 4.00 (4.55%) to close at Rs 92.00. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs 0.25 (0.13%) to close at Rs 197.25. The share price of Kelani Cables appreciated by Rs 19.50 (6.20%) to close at Rs 334.00.

The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover whilst the sector index edged down by 0.02%. Dialog Axiata and Hatton National Bank were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Dialog Axiata increased by Rs 0.30 (2.75%) to close at Rs 11.20. The share price of Hatton National Bank recorded a gain of Rs 0.50 (0.23%) to close at Rs 215.00.