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Market Sentiment Dims as Dhaka Stocks Extend Losing Streak

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Thursday, August 21st 2025 at 5:04 GMT by The Daily Star
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The Bangladesh stock market continued its downward spiral this week, extending a three-day losing streak and reflecting growing investor anxiety about both domestic and global economic headwinds. The benchmark DSE Index (DSEX) opened lower on Wednesday, mirroring Tuesday’s performance, and struggled to regain momentum throughout the trading session, ultimately closing in negative territory. This ongoing decline highlights a shift in market sentiment, moving away from the optimism seen earlier in the year and raising concerns about potential further corrections.

The primary driver behind this downturn is a confluence of factors. Globally, persistent inflation continues to weigh on investor confidence. The United States Federal Reserve’s aggressive interest rate hikes, aimed at curbing inflation, have sparked fears of a recession in major economies, impacting global trade and investment flows – effects that are inevitably felt in emerging markets like Bangladesh. Concerns about the ongoing war in Ukraine and its impact on energy prices and supply chains further contribute to this uncertainty.

Domestically, anxieties surrounding upcoming national elections are also playing a role. While elections are a regular feature of Bangladeshi democracy, they often introduce periods of volatility into the stock market as investors assess potential policy shifts and their implications for corporate earnings. The current political climate, coupled with concerns about macroeconomic stability, is prompting some investors to adopt a more cautious approach.

Specifically, rising import costs, driven by currency devaluation against the US dollar, are putting pressure on businesses. The Bangladesh Taka has depreciated significantly in recent months, making imported raw materials and goods more expensive for local manufacturers and retailers. This increased cost burden is impacting profitability and eroding investor confidence in companies reliant on imports. Furthermore, concerns about rising non-performing loans (NPLs) within the banking sector are adding to the overall sense of unease. While the Bangladesh Bank has taken measures to address NPLs, lingering doubts remain about the true extent of the problem and its potential impact on financial stability.

The market’s performance this week reflects these anxieties. Trading volume remained relatively thin, indicating a lack of strong buying interest. Sector-wise, most indices experienced declines, with pharmaceuticals, textiles, cement, and telecommunications sectors among those facing significant selling pressure. While some individual stocks managed to buck the trend and post gains, they were largely overshadowed by the broader negative sentiment.

Analysts point to several potential strategies for investors navigating this challenging market environment. Diversification remains a key principle – spreading investments across different sectors and asset classes can help mitigate risk. A focus on fundamentally strong companies with robust earnings and solid balance sheets is also recommended. These companies are better positioned to weather economic downturns and maintain their value over the long term.

Furthermore, some analysts suggest that the current market correction could present opportunities for patient investors. Historically, periods of market volatility have often been followed by rebounds as conditions improve and investor confidence returns. However, they caution against attempting to time the market – trying to predict when the downturn will end is notoriously difficult and can lead to costly mistakes.

The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) has acknowledged the recent market volatility and stated that it is closely monitoring the situation. The BSEC has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent market environment and ensuring investor protection. While specific interventions are unlikely in the short term, the regulator’s presence provides some reassurance to investors.

Looking ahead, the trajectory of the Dhaka stock market will likely depend on several factors. Global economic conditions, including inflation rates and interest rate policies, will continue to exert a significant influence. Domestically, political stability and policy decisions leading up to the elections will be crucial. The performance of key export sectors, such as ready-made garments, will also play a vital role in shaping investor sentiment.

Ultimately, navigating this period of market uncertainty requires a disciplined approach, a long-term perspective, and a focus on fundamental analysis. While short-term volatility is inevitable, the underlying strength of the Bangladeshi economy and its potential for future growth remain positive factors that could eventually drive a recovery in the stock market. The current downturn serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with investing in equities, but also highlights the potential rewards for those who can weather the storm and maintain a strategic outlook.