The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) concluded the trading session on a slightly positive note, with the benchmark index edging up by a mere 0.2 points to close at 5,896, falling short of the crucial 5,900-point mark. This came despite a sharp rise in market turnover, which increased by 20.5% to Taka 12.6 billion from the previous session's Taka 10.4 billion.
Impact of Central Bank's Rate Cut
The recent decision by the Bangladesh Bank to cut the policy rate for the first time in nearly two years initially spurred optimism among investors, leading to early gains in the session. However, persistent concerns about the domestic economic climate and global geopolitical uncertainties dampened market enthusiasm, preventing the index from sustaining higher levels.
The trading activity saw a noticeable improvement, with the turnover jumping significantly. Textile stocks were the most actively traded, accounting for 21.4% of the total turnover, followed by general insurance and pharmaceuticals, each contributing 11.9%.
Sector-Wise Performance
The sectoral performance remained mixed, with mutual funds posting the highest gain of 5.6%, followed by jute (1.6%) and services (1.5%). Conversely, the cement and life insurance sectors declined by 0.8%, and bank shares fell by 0.5%.
Out of the 397 issues traded, 192 advanced, 149 declined, and 54 remained unchanged, indicating a moderately positive market breadth.
Meanwhile, the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) also experienced a mixed session, with its Selective Categories' Index (CSCX) falling by 16.4 points and the All Share Price Index (CASPI) declining by 33.8 points at the close.
