Kathmandu| After three consecutive days of upward momentum, the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) experienced a decline of 16.95 points yesterday. However, on Wednesday, the market regained its positive trajectory, increasing by 23.86 points (0.89%). NEPSE opened at 2,693.13, reached a high of 2,712.25, a low of 2,669.06, and ultimately closed at 2,700.04, marking a strong recovery.

Although the index recorded gains, market turnover declined by approximately NPR 37 crore. The total turnover value  stood at NPR 5,444,435,901.36, compared to NPR 5,744,030,785.50 in the previous session.

Market Activity

The market witnessed robust trading activity, with a total of 318 stocks traded. Among them, 166 stocks advanced, while 78 declined. A total of 53,884 transactions were recorded, involving 10,442,683 shares. Market capitalization reached NPR 4,483,463,393,212.84, reflecting an increase in the overall valuation of listed companies.

Sectoral Performance

Most sectors performed well, except for the Manufacturing & Processing and Non-Life Insurance sectors, which saw declines. The Trading sector led the market, rising by 9.44 points, largely influenced by Bishal Bazar Company (BBC) and Salt Trading Corporation (STC). The Finance sector followed with a gain of 3.12 points. On the other hand, the Manufacturing & Processing sector suffered the most significant loss, declining by 1.47%.

Top Gainers and Losers

Among the top-performing stocks:

• Central Finance Company Limited (CFCL) surged by 10%, hitting the positive circuit limit.

• Bishal Bazar Company Limited (BBC) gained 9.96%.

• Upkar Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (ULBSL) increased by 9.29%.

Biggest losers:

• Bottlers Nepal Limited fell by 10%, hitting the negative circuit limit.

• Balephi Hydropower Limited declined by 4.85%.

Top Turnover Stocks

The highest turnover stock of the day was CEDB Holdings Limited (CHDC), followed by Himalayan Reinsurance Limited (HRL). In terms of volume, Ngadi Group Power Limited (NGPL) led the market with 1 million shares traded, followed by Kumari Bank Limited (KBL). HRL and NGPL also topped the transaction charts for the day.

Market Outlook

The market showed signs of recovery, with gains across most sectors. However, the decline in turnover raises uncertainty about investor sentiment. While the index’s upward movement is positive, a continued drop in turnover could indicate weakening market confidence. The significant gain in the Trading sector was driven by strong performances from Bishal Bazar Company (BBC) and Salt Trading Corporation (STC). Investors will be closely monitoring upcoming economic data and sector-specific developments to gauge future trends.