Indices close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as John Keells Holdings, Richard Pieris & Company and Aitken Spence with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.3 bn. A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hatton National Bank. Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Lanka IOC and John Keells Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, Ambeon Capital and First Capital Holdings. 

Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net buyers. Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to First Capital Treasuries) whilst the sector index lost 1.03%. The share price of First Capital Treasuries recorded a loss of Rs. 0.10 (0.36%) to close at Rs. 27.80. Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Browns Investments) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.43%. The share price of Browns Investments closed flat at Rs. 8.10. 

Expolanka Holdings, Lanka IOC and John Keells Holdings were also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Expolanka Holdings increased by Rs. 0.50 (0.24%) to close at Rs. 206.75. The share price of Lanka IOC gained Rs. 3.00 (1.33%) to close at Rs. 228.25. The share price of John Keells Holdings declined by Rs. 3.75 (2.59%) to close at Rs. 141.00. Furthermore, Commercial Development Company announced an interim cash dividend of 
Rs. 3.00 per share.