Large-cap stocks push DSE higher, investor participation thin
The DSEX gained 14 points to close at 4,724, while the DS30, comprising blue-chip stocks, rose 9 points to settle at 1,771
The benchmark index DSEX of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) edged up riding on selected large-cap scrips gains, but turnover still remained sluggish on the first trading day after the 10-day Eid-ul-Adha holiday.
On the day, the DSEX rose by 14 points to settle at 4,724, while the blue-chip index DS30 advanced 9 points to close at 1,771.
Of the 392 issues traded, 145 advanced, 179 declined, and 68 remained unchanged.
Turnover saw a marginal rise, reaching Tk263 crore, still well below the Tk300 crore mark, indicating subdued trading activity.
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Selected large-cap stocks – BRAC Bank, BAT Bangladesh, and Square Pharma – played a key role in lifting the index today (15 June).
EBL Securities, in its daily market commentary, said the capital bourse of the country resumed trading on a positive note after the extended Eid holidays, driven by investor interest in selective large-cap scrips, although market strength remained weak due to subdued investor participation.
Although the market opened on a slightly pessimistic note, it quickly rebounded to positive territory and sustained buyer dominance throughout the session, it added.
It further said some easing of uncertainties on the political front regarding the next parliamentary election also somewhat contributed to the market's upbeat vibe.
However, cautious investors mostly remained watchful of broader market trends, while recent tensions in the Middle East also added further strain to investor concerns regarding the overall market outlook, EBL Securities noted.
On the sectoral front, food issues exerted the highest turnover, followed by bank and pharma sectors.
Lovello Ice Cream topped the turnover chart, followed by BRAC Bank, Beach Hatchery, and Asiatic Laboratories.
Sectors mostly displayed mixed returns, out of which food, ceramic and travel exhibited the most positive returns on the bourse, while jute, tannery and engineering exerted the most correction.
Asiatic Laboratories led the gainers, while Phoenix Insurance was the day's worst performer.
Meanwhile, the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) also ended in the green. The CSCX gained 24 points, while the CASPI rose by 45 points.
