Briefing 2023-04-08

Stocks snap three-week losing streak

Snapping a three-week losing streak, the benchmark index of the Dhaka bourse posted a modest gain in the outgoing week, as bargain hunters showed interest in some oversold stocks in anticipation of quick gains. The market managed to close in the green as the investors deemed some selective issues lucrative following their recent erosions, market operators said. Page 9

Eid shopping gains momentum in Ctg

As Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, city dwellers in Chattogram are flocking to various shopping centres to purchase their preferred attire. The festival is the biggest celebration for the Muslim community, and many shoppers have received their salaries at the beginning of the month, adding to the momentum of the trend. Page 16

Putin, Lukashenko hold talks on defence

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Belarusian counterpart on Thursday discussed expanding economic cooperation and bolstering defense ties between their nations, which include a plan to deploy Russia's nuclear weapons to Belarus amid the fighting in neighboring Ukraine. The Kremlin talks involved senior officials from both countries and followed Putin's one-on-one meeting with President Alexander Lukashenko on Wednesday. Page 14

Mushfiq steers Tigers to easy Test win

Bangladesh registered its first win at home since 2020 after overcoming a spirited Ireland side to win the one-off Test by seven wickets at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Friday. Since its landmark victory in New Zealand early in 2022, Bangladesh in fact lost eight tests and drew one before coming back to winning way in the longer version finally. Page 13