Business
Notable dip in blue-chip counters as macro and micro uncertainties weigh on bourse
By Hiran H.Senewiratne
The CSE surrendered its early gains to close marginally lower yesterday as looming macro and micro economic uncertainties weighed on investor sentiment amid a significant drop in blue-chip counters, stock market analysts said.
Despite global tensions with regard to the Russian- Ukraine issue easing out, since Russia is reportedly looking for a diplomatic intervention, the local micro economic front did not seem to facilitate profitable stock market operations, which factor dragged the bourse to negative territory, stock market analysts added. Moreover, an increase in world crude oil prices to the higher level of US $ 94 per barrel from US $ 72, put more pressure on the Sri Lankan economy due to the ongoing currency crisis, market analysts pointed out.
Against this backdrop, the stock market started on a positive note but later turned negative, especially with regard to blue-chip counters. Both indices moved downward. The All- Share Price Index went down by 106 points and S and P SL20 declined by 16.8 points.
Turnover stood at Rs 3.2 billion with a single crossing. The crossing was recorded from Melstacorp, which crossed 390,000 shares to the tune of Rs 26.6 million, its shares traded at Rs 56.
In the retail market, top seven companies that were mainly contributed to the turnover were; Commercial Leasing and Finance Rs 756 million (16.9 million shares traded), LOLC Finance Rs 460 million (17.2 million shares traded), Browns Investments Rs 229 million (16.2 million shares traded), Expolanka Rs 163 million (503,000 shares traded), Sinhaputhra Finance Rs 142 million (4.2 million shares traded), Softlogic Life Insurance Rs 102.6 million (738,000 shares traded) and Softlogic Holdings Rs 68.8 million (953,000 shares traded). During the day 108 million share volumes changed hands in 36000 share transactions.
The index pared early gains thereupon and slipped into negative territory as investors realized quick profits, capitalizing on recent sharp price increases in select heavyweight counters. However, activity continued at moderate levels with daily turnover coming in at a four-month low. The breadth of the market ended negative with 78 price gainers and 121 decliners, market watchers said.
It is said that foreigners recorded a net outflow of Rs. 42 million, while their participation increased marginally to 2.7 per cent of turnover (previous day 2.3 percent). Reportedly, high net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Royal Ceramics, Softlogic Life Insurance and LOLC Holdings.
Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Vallibel Finance and Sunshine Holdings, while retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing non-voting, Dialog Axiata and Browns Investments. The share price of Vallibel Finance gained Rs. 3.50 to close at Rs. 55.
The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover (due to Royal Ceramics), while the sector index increased by 0.06 per cent. The share price of Royal Ceramics recorded a gain of 60 cents to close at Rs. 71.90. Further First Capital Holdings and First Capital Treasuries announced subdivision of shares from one existing share into four new shares.
Yesterday, the US dollar was quoted at Rs 202.52, which was the controlled price of the Central Bank. The Central Bank has imposed a ceiling of Rs 203 per US dollar. However, market sources said that the actual price would be more than Rs 250.
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”
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