Week begins with foreign buying

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Commercial Bank, Hatton National Bank and Ceylon Tobacco Company with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.2 Bn. A similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High networth and institutional investor participation was noted inCeylon Tobacco Company, Richard Pieris & Company and Hatton National Bank. Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Royal Ceramics and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing, Dialog Axiata and Browns Investments. 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) whilst the sector index lost 0.68%. The share price of Ceylon Tobacco Company decreased by Rs 40.25 (3.30%) to close at Rs 1,177.75.

The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Hatton National Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 1.91%. The share price of Hatton National Bank lost Rs 4.25 (2.60%) to close at Rs 159.00.

Richard Pieris & Company, John Keells Holdings and Royal Ceramics were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Richard Pieris & Company closed flat at Rs 20.50. The share price of John Keells Holdings recorded a loss of Rs 1.50 (0.91%) to close at Rs 164.00. The share price of Royal Ceramics declined by Rs 1.40 (4.68%) to close at Rs 28.50.