The stock market experienced a week of mixed reactions, with the benchmark index ending flat by the week’s close.
The volatility dominated the market as sellers retained their control, while cautious investors held back, preferring to watch the market’s trends and conserve cash, awaiting more attractive investment opportunities following recent corrections.
Despite this, the market saw a modest recovery driven by positive sentiment sparked by reports of the central bank’s approval of anticipated Tk3,000 crore sovereign-guaranteed loans to the Investment Corporation of Bangladesh (ICB).
Dhaka Stock Exchange sees positive momentum in early Thursday trading
But, the recovery was short-lived as profit-taking by wary investors erased most of the gains by the final session, amid waning market momentum.
The DSEX, the broad index of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), dipped by 5 points, or 0.1 percent, to close at 5,193 points.
Investor participation also shrank, falling by 18.1 percent to Tk381.3 crore as ongoing economic uncertainties, political tensions, and social unrest made market participants more cautious, leading many to remain on the sidelines.
The Bank sector saw the highest investor activity, accounting for 18 percent of the total turnover, followed by the Pharma sector at 12.3 percent and the Food sector at 10.7 percent.
Most sectors ended the week in positive territory, with the IT sector gaining 3.8 percent as the top performer. On the other hand, the Life Insurance sector was the biggest loser, dropping by 0.9 percent.
Stock market sees upward trend in early trading
The capital market saw a slight upward movement, with the DSEX climbing 4.3 points, or 0.15 percent, to reach 5,193 points. Average daily turnover stood at Tk281.7 crore, representing an 18.14 percent decrease in market participation compared to the previous week.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh's economy continues to navigate a complex landscape.
Efforts to stabilise essential goods markets are ongoing, with a notable 5 percent drop in onion prices attributed to increased imports. The tourism sector, particularly in Cox’s Bazar, is enjoying a resurgence, boosted by the winter vacation period.
In the industrial sector, businesses are dealing with inflationary pressures, higher energy costs, and rising storage expenses.
The central bank has been actively addressing liquidity concerns, offering credit limit extensions and collateral-free loans. Despite these efforts, worries persist about the rising level of non-performing loans and high inflation.
Mixed trend at Dhaka Stock Exchange amid reduced turnover
Chattogram's fourth-largest bank has secured a significant loan to mitigate liquidity issues caused by irregularities. While the economy shows signs of growth, macroeconomic indicators reflect both opportunities and challenges, including rising wages and continued digitalisation efforts.
Bangladesh is also focusing on reforms to attract foreign direct investment, aiming to streamline permit procedures and improve its institutional framework.
International cooperation, such as with Norway, highlights the importance of global partnerships in supporting development efforts. But, structural vulnerabilities remain, with fiscal constraints and the need for a transition to renewable energy posing long-term challenges.
Mixed performance in Dhaka Stock Exchange: DSEX gains 5.65 points in early trading
Amid these economic developments, domestic gold prices have fallen, reflecting declines in the international market, while the price of white sugar has increased due to import dependency.