ASPI edges down

The ASPI edged down as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Hatton National Bank and Seylan Bank nonvoting with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.6 bn. 
A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Sampath Bank, John Keells Holdings, and Ceylon Grain Elevators. Mixed interest was observed in Asian Hotels & Properties, Capital Alliance and Lanka IOC whilst retail interest was noted in The Kingsbury, Browns Investments and LOLC Finance. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers. Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Ceylon Grain Elevators) whilst the sector index gained 0.44%. The share price of Ceylon Grain Elevators increased by Rs. 5.00 (3.02%) to close at Rs. 170.50.  
Consumer Services sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Asian Hotels & Properties) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.61%. The share price of Asian Hotels & Properties gained Rs. 0.30 (0.56%) to close at Rs. 53.80.

John Keells Holdings, Capital Alliance and Lanka IOC were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of John Keells Holdings moved down by Rs. 1.25 (0.69%) to close at Rs. 180.00. The share price of Capital Alliance recorded a gain of Rs. 6.00 (7.93%) to close at Rs. 81.70. The share price of Lanka IOC appreciated by Rs. 2.75 (2.43%) to close at Rs. 115.75. 
Furthermore, Lake House Printers & Publishers and Lee Hedges announced their dividends of Rs. 5.00 and Rs. 1.00 per share respectively.