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The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) opened sharply lower on Wednesday as political tensions weighed on investor sentiment, with the DSEX benchmark index falling 52 points within the first hour of trading.

By 11am, the turnover stood at Tk106 crore, reflecting cautious participation amid growing concerns over possible unrest ahead of the announcement of the verdict date in a crimes against humanity case against Sheikh Hasina.

Market data showed a broad-based decline — 273 issues lost value, while only 46 advanced and 48 remained unchanged.

Other indices also slipped in tandem. The DSES, which tracks Shariah-compliant stocks, dropped 13 points, while the DS30, comprising blue-chip companies, shed 19 points.

Analysts said investors are staying on the sidelines amid political volatility, preferring to wait for clarity before making new commitments.