Indices close in red while weak turnover persists

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Vallibel One, John Keells Holdings and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs. 861 mn. 
A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in National Development Bank, Sampath Bank and John Keells Holdings. 

Mixed interest was observed in Lanka IOC, Expolanka Holdings and ACL Cables whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing nonvoting, Browns Investments and Softlogic Capital.
Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to ACL Cables) whilst the sector index lost 0.93%. 

The share price of ACL Cables moved down by Rs.1.10 (1.34%) to close at Rs. 80.90. The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.72%. The share price of Sampath Bank closed flat at Rs. 51.00. 

Lanka IOC, Expolanka Holdings and Softlogic Capital were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka IOC decreased by Rs. 2.50 (1.50%) to close at Rs. 163.75. 
The share price of Expolanka Holdings lost Rs. 1.50 (1.13%) to close at Rs. 130.75. The share price of Softlogic Capital declined by Rs. 0.20 (1.71%) to close at Rs. 11.50.