Indices continue to close in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Lanka IOC, Commercial Bank, and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs. 2.5 bn. 
Similar behavior was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was remained subdued for the day. 

Mixed interest was observed in John Keells Holdings, Lanka IOC, and Commercial Bank whilst retail interest was noted in The Kingsbury, Browns Investments, and Kotagala Plantations. 
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 gained 0.20%. 

The share price of John Keells Holdings increased by Rs. 1.25 (0.79%) to close at Rs. 159.00. The Banking sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank) whilst the sector index decreased by 0.22%.

 The share price of Commercial Bank recorded a loss of Rs. 1.00 (1.11%) to close at Rs. 88.80. The share price of Sampath Bank declined by Rs. 0.10 (0.13%) to close at Rs. 74.90. Lanka IOC and The Kingsbury were also included among the top turnover contributors. 
The share price of Lanka IOC lost Rs. 14.50 (10.38%) to close at Rs. 125.25. The share price of The Kingsbury moved up by Rs. 0.40 (3.85%) to close at Rs 10.80. Furthermore, People’s Leasing & Finance announced its interim dividend of Rs. 0.7 per share.