Stocks opened lower on Thursday as investors turned cautious amid policy uncertainties and renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, prompting broad-based selling pressure.
By 11:30 am, the benchmark DSEX index of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) had fallen 15 points, or 0.26 per cent, to 5,856.
Market analysts said the recent rally encouraged many short-term investors to book profits, while uncertainty surrounding the proposed changes to the margin loan rules further dampened market sentiment.
Analysts said investors are closely monitoring both domestic policy developments and the evolving situation in the Middle East, which continue to influence risk appetite in the market.
Trading activity remained subdued, reflecting investors' cautious stance. During the first 90 minutes of trading, turnover on the premier bourse stood at Tk 3.42 billion.
Market breadth also remained negative, with 190 issues declining, 115 advancing, and 80 remaining unchanged by 11:30 am.
The Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) also witnessed a weak start to the day. Its benchmark CASPI index lost 38 points to 15,740, while the CSCX index fell 18 points to
9,615 in early trading.
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