Sri Lanka, Oct. 16 -- Indices closed in red as a result of price losses in counters such as Sampath Bank, Hatton National Bank and Melstacorp with the turnover crossing Rs. 5.6 Bn. High net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Dialog Axiata, Hemas Holdings and Citizens Development Business Finance. Mixed interest was observed in Merchant Bank of Sri Lanka & Finance, People's Merchant Finance and Panasian Power whilst retail interest was noted in SMB Leasing nonvoting, Tess Agro and Hikkaduwa Beach Resort. Foreign participation in the market activity remained at subdued levels with foreigners closing as net sellers.

The Diversified Financials sector was the top contributor to the market turnover (due to Merchant Ban...