Price losses in counters such as Dialog Axiata, Sri Lanka Telecom and Hemas Holdings resulted in indices closing in red whilst turnover crossed Rs 592 Mn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was witnessed in Distilleries whilst mixed interest was observed in Softlogic Finance, Union Bank and Textured Jersey Lanka. Retail interest was noted in Commercial Credit & Finance, People's Leasing & Finance and Orient Garments. Meanwhile, foreigners remained active, marginally closing as net sellers due to foreign selling in Distilleries and Union Bank.
Banks, Finance and Insurance sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Softlogic Finance and Union Bank) whilst the sector index gained 0.49%. The share price of Softlogic Finance recorded a gain of Rs 2.20 (5.33%) to close at Rs 43.50. The share price of Union Bank declined by Rs 0.10 (0.40%) closing at Rs 25.10 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 1,210,788 shares.
Beverage Food and Tobacco sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Nestle Lanka and Distilleries) whilst the sector index increased by 0.11%. The share
price of Nestle Lanka increased by Rs 1.00 (0.04%) to close at Rs 2,300.00. The share price of Distilleries gained Rs 0.30 (0.12%) closing at Rs 240.50 whilst foreign holdings decreased by 66,244 shares.