Stock Market Continues Downward Trend Amid Widespread Price Decline

Economic Desk

The stock market in Bangladesh has extended its losing streak, with both major exchanges recording declines for the sixth consecutive trading day. On Monday, April 21, the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) saw most companies’ shares and units lose value, with all key indices closing lower despite a marginal increase in trading volume.

At the DSE, out of 397 traded securities, 234 declined while only 103 advanced. The benchmark DSEX index dropped 29 points to close at 5,044. The Shariah-based DSES index fell 8 points to 1,126, and the blue-chip DS30 index lost 9 points to settle at 1,863.

Trading activity showed mixed results. Total turnover at the DSE increased slightly to Tk 359.04 crore from the previous session’s Tk 351.08 crore. Beach Hatchery led the turnover chart with shares worth Tk 23.42 crore changing hands, followed by Bangladesh Shipping Corporation and Midland Bank.

The market opened with some positive movement but turned bearish after 11 AM, with most stocks maintaining downward pressure throughout the session. High-dividend paying companies were particularly affected, with 141 such stocks declining against only 49 gainers.

The Chittagong Stock Exchange mirrored the negative trend, with its all-share price index CASPI losing 62 points. Of 198 traded issues, 115 declined while only 45 advanced. Turnover at the CSE halved to Tk 3.36 crore from Tk 6.35 crore in the previous session.

Market analysts attribute the prolonged downturn to ongoing economic uncertainties and reduced investor confidence. The persistent selling pressure across most sectors indicates cautious market sentiment, with few buyers willing to enter the market despite lower valuations.

The continuous decline has raised concerns among small investors, many of whom have seen significant erosion in their portfolio values over the past week. Market observers suggest the bearish trend may continue until clear positive triggers emerge to restore investor confidence.