DHAKA, March 09, 2026 (BSS) - Stocks today edged higher following the steep selloff in recent sessions, as bargain hunters turned back to accumulate equities at attractive price points; however, overall investor participation remained subdued amid lingering uncertainties surrounding the ongoing Middle East conflict. 

DSEX, the broad index of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), recovered 132.4 points to settle at 5,141 points as against 5,009 points in the previous trading session. 

Market indices maintained an upbeat trajectory throughout the session, supported by broad-based price appreciation across most scrips. However, cautious investors remained on the sidelines, closely monitoring market direction amid the absence of any visible progress toward a resolution or ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.

Apparently, market turnover decreased by 21.8% to BDT 4.2 billion from BDT 5.3 billion in the previous session. On the sectoral front, Bank (25.5%) accounted for the highest share of turnover, followed by Pharma (19.3%) and Textile (8.9%). All the sectors displayed positive returns, out of which Bank (4.6%), Jute (3.8%), Paper (3.3%) exhibited the most positive returns on the bourse today.

Of the 397 issues traded, 349 advanced, 16 declined, and 32 remained unchanged. 

The port city bourse, CSE, also settled on a positive territory. The Selective Categories' Index (CSCX) and All Share Price Index (CASPI) advanced by 51.9 points and 82.6 points, respectively.