Stocks on the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) continued their losing streak, with the DSEX index plunging 96.6 points to settle at 5,419 points. This follows a previous session close at 5,515 points, marking a persistent downward trend that has gripped the market from the week’s outset. The bearish sentiment has prompted investors to offload holdings in an attempt to minimize further losses.
The market showed no signs of recovery as trading progressed, with widespread price corrections across most scrips. This has left overall investor sentiment in a state of persistent uncertainty. Market turnover increased by 4.9 percent to BDT 5.7 billion from BDT 5.4 billion in the previous session, indicating heightened trading activity despite the negative market conditions.
On the sectoral front, Textile accounted for the highest share of turnover at 25.9 percent, followed by General Insurance at 15.0 percent and Bank at 11.5 percent. However, all sectors posted negative returns, with Travel suffering the sharpest correction at -5.4 percent, followed by Ceramic at -4.1 percent and Jute at -3.7 percent.
Of the 395 issues traded, only 27 advanced, while 336 declined and 32 remained unchanged. The Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) also closed in negative territory, with the Selective Categories’ Index (CSCX) losing 79.7 points and the All Share Price Index (CASPI) dropping 150.9 points.
The ongoing nationwide gas and electricity crisis, coupled with escalating conflicts in the Middle East, has significantly impacted investor sentiment. These external factors, along with the market’s near-term outlook, have contributed to the persistent bearish trend. Investors are increasingly cautious, leading to a continued sell-off in the market.
The situation underscores the vulnerability of the stock market to both domestic and international factors. For Bangladeshi investors, this period of market instability highlights the importance of diversification and risk management strategies to navigate through uncertain times. The ongoing crises and market volatility are likely to keep investor sentiment fragile in the near term.
