Indices decline

Market dips The indices at the Colombo Stock Exchange declined despite early morning gains with the broader market ASI ending 99 points (1.4 percent) down to close at 6,991.

The more sensitive Milanka Index lost 108 points (1.4 percent) to close at 7,680. Turnover for the day was Rs 4 billion with Hatton National Bank shares dominating trading with business of Rs 542 million. The share closed down by Rs 7.30 to Rs 408.20. HNB Bank's non voting share closed at Rs 249.90 on turnover of Rs 14 million.

Nawaloka Hospitals gained 10 cents to close at Rs 9.30 on the announcement of a two (2) for one (1) split, with turnover from the shares at Rs 410 million. John Keells Holdings closed at Rs 338.10, down Rs 11.50 on turnover of Rs 318 million. First Guardian Equities