B Mirror Report: Stocks edged higher today following recent steep selloffs, as bargain hunters returned to accumulate equities at attractive prices, though overall investor participation remained subdued due to ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Middle East conflict.

The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) broad index DSEX recovered 132.4 points to close at 5,141, up from 5,009 in the previous session. Market indices remained upbeat throughout the day, supported by broad-based price gains across most scrips.

Despite the positive momentum, cautious investors largely stayed on the sidelines, monitoring market direction amid the absence of progress toward a ceasefire or resolution of the ongoing regional conflict.

Market turnover fell by 21.8% to BDT 4.2 billion from BDT 5.3 billion in the prior session. Sector-wise, the Bank sector accounted for the highest share of turnover at 25.5%, followed by Pharma (19.3%) and Textile (8.9%). Bank (4.6%), Jute (3.8%), and Paper (3.3%) sectors posted the strongest gains on the bourse.

Out of 397 traded issues, 349 advanced, 16 declined, and 32 remained unchanged.

Meanwhile, the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) also closed in positive territory, with the Selective Categories Index (CSCX) rising 51.9 points and the All Share Price Index (CASPI) gaining 82.6 points.

The rebound highlights investor interest in bargain buying, even as geopolitical tensions continue to temper overall market participation.