Stocks open flat as volatility continues

Dhaka stocks opened flat amid continued volatility on Wednesday morning as concern grows about a new strain of coronavirus that could spread more rapidly.

The DSEX edged down over 1 point or 0.03 percent at 5,096, in the first 30 minutes of trading, putting the benchmark index on track to remain flat for a second day after setting its record high two weeks back.

Among other indices, the DSES lost 2 points or 0.19 percent at 1,175 and blue-chip DS30 slipped 4 points or 0.23 percent at 1,811.

The market’s volatility came despite the fact that the government has been making efforts to bring pace in stimulus package disbursement to the coronavirus-hit industries.

Beximco Ltd continued to remain the most traded issue, followed by Republic Insurance, Lafarge Holcim Bangladesh Ltd, Rupali Insurance, Beximco Pharmaceuticals, Phoenix Insurance, BGIC and Sonar Bangla Insurance.