Dhaka stocks sink over 1.8%

DSEX, the benchmark index of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) lost 119 points or 1.82 percent before closing on Monday amid the big bang of the trading of the government securities.

The two bourses – Dhaka and Chittagong stock exchanges – opened this new platform for general investors. Market analysts and investors think that bond trading will make the country’s secondary stock markets more vibrant and participatory though these securities failed to attract any buyers on the first day.

“Investors look very cautious as the economic situation is getting critical,” said a merchant banker. “Comments of high-ups on the economy also impacted the sentiment of the investors,” he added.

Among other indices, the shariah-based DSES was down by 28 points or 1.91 percent and the blue-chip DS30 fell by 47.43 points or 2 percent.