The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) experienced its lowest turnover in four months on Monday, 9 December, with trading volume falling by 5% to Tk278 crore. This marked the weakest market activity since the interim government assumed control following the removal of the Sheikh Hasina-led administration. The previous low turnover of Tk207 crore occurred on 4 August.

The benchmark DSEX index dropped 14 points to 5,166, and the DS30 index fell by 4 points to 1,904. Among traded stocks, 126 gained, 179 declined, and 90 remained unchanged. Analysts attributed the downturn to cautious investor sentiment amid domestic and economic uncertainties. Rising interest rates on bonds and deposits have also diverted investments, reducing market liquidity, according to Rahmat Pasha of UCB Stock Brokerage.

Despite three consecutive bearish sessions, market capitalisation surged by Tk57,000 crore, reaching a four-month high of Tk7.19 lakh crore. This growth is primarily due to treasury bond price adjustments updated by the Bangladesh Bank, which have significantly boosted their value.

Meanwhile, the Investment Corporation of Bangladesh (ICB) received central bank approval for a Tk3,000 crore loan at 4% interest, aimed at stabilising the stock market. A portion of these funds will be injected into the market to bolster investor confidence. Analysts remain optimistic about regulatory efforts to address market challenges and restore stability.