Week commences in red

The ASPI closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Expolanka Holdings, Vallibel One and Hayleys with the turnover crossing Rs. 1.1 bn.
A similar behaviour was witnessed in the S&P SL20. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Renuka Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Lanka IOC and John Keells Holdings whilst retail interest was noted in Browns Investments, LOLC Finance and Ex-Pack Corrugated Cartons. 

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, ACL Cables and Renuka Holdings) whilst the sector index lost 1.23%.
The share price of John Keells Holdings moved up by Rs. 3.50 (2.71%) to close at Rs. 132.50. The share price of ACL Cables recorded a loss of Rs. 6.90 (8.77%) to close at Rs. 71.80. The share price of Renuka Holdings declined by Rs. 0.70 (4.52%) to close at Rs. 14.80.

Transportation sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Expolanka Holdings) whilst the sector index decreased by 7.38%. 
The share price of Expolanka Holdings decreased by Rs. 12.25 (7.39%) to close at Rs. 153.50. Lanka IOC was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Lanka IOC lost Rs. 10.50 (5.81%) to close at Rs. 170.25.  Furthermore, Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka announced a second interim cash dividend of Rs. 0.6 per share.