Foreign investment in Bangladesh’s stock market is on the rise as the stability of the dollar market is attracting investors. In April 2023, foreign investors purchased more shares than they sold, leading to a net investment of Tk81 crore compared to Tk3 crore in March. This trend indicates a shift as foreign investors had been selling more shares than buying for some time. The improvement in the dollar situation has restored confidence among foreign investors, who are now returning to the capital market in search of good returns.
According to the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) data, the total turnover in April reached Tk10,296 crore. The DSE index showed a rise for 12 days and a decline for six days during the month. Experts attribute the increasing foreign investment to Bangladesh’s positive brand image and the attractive valuation of the market. Notable companies with foreign investments include Brac Bank, Beximco Pharmaceuticals, Navana Pharmaceuticals, Renata, Olympic Industries, Islami Bank, Delta Brac Housing, BSRM, Square Pharmaceuticals, and Shepherd Industries. As of April, foreign investors held 33.4% of Brac Bank shares, 28.95% of Beximco Pharmaceuticals shares, 27.73% of Navana Pharmaceuticals shares, 22.73% of Renata shares, and 23.25% of Olympic Industries shares.