Week starts with foreign selling

Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Commercial Bank, Melstacorp and Hatton National Bank with the turnover crossing Rs 678 Mn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hayleys, ACL Cables and John Keells Holdings. Mixed interest was observed in Browns Investments, Hatton National Bank and Royal Ceramics whilst retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, UB Finance Company and LOLC Finance. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

Capital Goods sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Hayleys, John Keells Holdings and ACL Cables) whilst the sector index lost 1.37%. The share price of Hayleys decreased by Rs 1.00 (0.99%) to close at Rs 100.00.

The share price of John Keells Holdings lost Rs 2.75 (1.42%) to close at Rs 191.25. The share price of ACL Cables moved down by Rs 1.00 (1.20%) to close at Rs 82.10.

Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Browns Investments) whilst the sector index decreased by 1.70%.

The share price of Browns Investments recorded a loss of Rs 0.20 (3.57%) to close at Rs 5.40. Hatton National Bank was also included amongst the top turnover contributors. The share price of Hatton National Bank declined by Rs 3.75 (1.95%) to close at Rs 188.25.