Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as LOLC Holdings, John Keells Holdings and Sri Lanka Telecom with the turnover crossing Rs 4.9 Bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in John Keells Holdings, hSenid Business Solutions and Renuka Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Lanka IOC and CIC Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Kotagala Plantations, Prime Lands Residencies and Browns Investments. 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 John Keells Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 0.91%. The share price of John Keells Holdings decreased by Rs 2.00 (1.57%) to close at Rs 125.00. Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Kotagala Plantations and Lankem Developments) whilst the sector index increased by 0.64%. The share price of Kotagala Plantations recorded a gain of Rs 1.20 (16%) to close at Rs 8.70. The share price of Lankem Developments appreciated by Rs 0.20 (0.78%) to close at Rs 25.90.

Expolanka Holdings and Lanka IOC were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Expolanka Holdings lost Rs 2.25 (0.97%) to close at Rs 229.00. The share price of Lanka IOC moved up by Rs 1.25 (0.70%) to close at Rs 179.50.