The country’s capital market continued its downward trend on Wednesday, with the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) extending its losing streak for a third consecutive session amid cautious investor sentiment and ongoing adjustments in a heavyweight banking stock following its record date.

The DSEX, the benchmark index of the DSE, declined by 14.3 points to close at 5,234 points, compared to 5,248 points in the previous session. Although the index showed mild gains during mid-session trading, sustained selling pressure gradually erased early momentum, pushing the market into negative territory by the close.

Market turnover, however, increased by 10.1 percent to Tk 8.4 billion from Tk 7.7 billion in the previous session, indicating active repositioning by investors across selected sectors despite the overall decline in the index.

Sector-wise performance remained mixed. Engineering led turnover with a 15.5 percent share, followed by Textile at 13.5 percent and General Insurance at 12.9 percent. Among the sectors, General Insurance posted the highest gain of 2.5 percent, while Travel and Ceramic rose by 0.8 percent and 0.5 percent respectively. In contrast, Paper fell by 1.4 percent, while Life Insurance and Jute each declined by 0.8 percent.

Market analysts said investor sentiment remained cautious due to ongoing global uncertainties, including developments related to ceasefire negotiations in the Middle East. However, selective buying interest was observed in the insurance sector, driven by short-term trading opportunities.

Out of 396 traded issues on the DSE, 123 advanced, 194 declined, and 79 remained unchanged.

Meanwhile, the Chattogram Stock Exchange (CSE) also closed lower. The Selective Categories Index (CSCX) dropped by 61.7 points, while the All Share Price Index (CASPI) fell by 98.8 points.