Stocks on the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) extended their losing streak to a third consecutive trading session as investor sentiment remained subdued amid concerns over gas supply disruptions, heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and persistent uncertainty over the amendment to margin lending rules. The broad index, DSEX, fell 19.9 points to close at 5,784, down from 5,804 in the previous session.
Trading was volatile throughout the day as investors were active on both the buying and selling sides. However, late-session corrections in several large-cap stocks pushed the market into negative territory. Market turnover declined 16.9 percent to Tk 7.8 billion from Tk 9.4 billion in the previous session, reflecting cautious investor participation.
Sectoral Performance
Insurance stocks attracted fresh buying interest following strong corporate earnings announcements, leading to selective gains across the sector. Among sectors, textiles accounted for the largest share of turnover at 19.2 percent, followed by general insurance (11.0 percent) and pharmaceuticals (10.4 percent). Most sectors ended lower, with mutual funds falling 2.2 percent, ceramics 2.0 percent, and financial institutions 1.5 percent. In contrast, general insurance gained 2.9 percent, while services and food sectors advanced 0.6 percent and 0.2 percent, respectively.
Overall Market Performance
Out of the 396 issues traded on the DSE, 116 advanced, 237 declined, and 43 remained unchanged. Meanwhile, the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) also closed lower, with the Selective Categories' Index (CSCX) dropping 91.9 points and the All Share Price Index (CASPI) losing 141.9 points.
