B Mirror Report: Stocks ended the week’s opening session on a modest upward note as investors returned to take positions in December-closing stocks amid expectations of favorable corporate earnings.

The positive earnings outlook helped offset lingering concerns over market momentum, particularly in light of uncertainties surrounding ceasefire negotiations in the Middle East conflict.

The benchmark index of the Dhaka Stock Exchange, DSEX, rose by 13.7 points to close at 5,271, compared to 5,258 in the previous session.

The market experienced volatility during mid-session, with participation from both buyers and sellers. However, buying pressure strengthened in the latter half of the session, allowing the market to close on a positive note.

Insurance stocks led the upward momentum, supported by short-term investors positioning themselves ahead of anticipated earnings announcements.

Market turnover also saw a notable increase, rising by 7.8 percent to Tk 8.4 billion from Tk 7.8 billion in the previous session.

On the sectoral front, General Insurance dominated turnover with 14.2 percent, followed by Engineering at 13.7 percent and Pharmaceuticals at 11.8 percent.

Sector performance remained mixed. General Insurance (4.3%), Life Insurance (1.3%), and IT (1.0%) recorded the highest gains, while Services (-1.1%), Telecom (-1.0%), and Financial Institutions (-0.6%) posted declines.

Out of 397 traded issues, 185 advanced, 136 declined, and 75 remained unchanged.

Meanwhile, the port city bourse, the Chittagong Stock Exchange, also ended in positive territory. The Selective Categories Index (CSCX) and the All Share Price Index (CASPI) declined by 9.8 points and 0.9 points, respectively.