Stocks opened positive on Monday amid volatile trading as investors remained active on both sides of the market while maintaining a cautious stance amid the persistent energy crisis and other domestic headwinds.
Market operators said investors were trading cautiously as concerns over a potential downturn in corporate earnings continued to weigh on sentiment. Persistent economic challenges kept many investors on the sidelines despite the market opening on a positive note.
The benchmark DSEX index of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) rose 10 points, or 0.17 per cent, to 5,624 at 11:00 am, when the report was filed.
The DS30 index, comprising blue-chip stocks, edged down 0.15 point to 2,122, while the Shariah-based DSES index gained three points to 1,131.
Trading activity remained subdued, with turnover on the premier bourse standing at Tk 1.40 billion during the first hour, indicating limited participation from investors.
Market breadth was positive, with 197 issues advancing against 100 declining, while 84 remained unchanged.
Sharp Industries emerged as the most-traded issue during the period, with shares worth Tk 164 million changing hands.
The Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) also opened higher. Its All Share Price Index (CASPI) gained 16 points to 15,108, while the CSE Selective Categories Index (CSCX) rose 13 points to 9,216 at 11:00 am.
