Briefing 2023-06-23

Losers in business become winners on DSE

Rumours of speculative betting on securities caused loss-making companies to dominate the list of top gainers on the Dhaka Stock Exchange. Despite ongoing business losses, these companies experienced surges in stock prices, attracting investors hoping for quick profits. The rise of small-cap stocks susceptible to price manipulation is attributed to major contributors to the index being stuck at floor prices. Page 9

Tigers face injury scare ahead of Afghan series

Tamim Iqbal, Liton Das, and Naim Sheikh encountered injury concerns simultaneously during a practice session for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. Tamim Iqbal, already ruled out of the Test, aggravated his back issue. Liton Das suffered discomfort after a hit to his hand, while Naim Sheikh took a blow to the knee but continued batting. Team management assures no major worries. Page 17

China restaurant blast kills 31

A gas explosion at a barbecue restaurant in Yinchuan, China, killed 31 people, including high school students and retirees. The incident occurred during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday weekend. Gas and chemical blasts are not uncommon in China, despite safety improvement efforts. Locals express concern over potential risks and urge vigilance. Page 18

Nepal sees energy co-op potential with BD

The Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari highlighted the significant potential for cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the energy sector. In the keynote speech at a dialogue in Dhaka, he expressed optimism about the first trilateral power transaction from Nepal to Bangladesh through the Indian grid and discussed ongoing talks for joint investment in a hydropower project. Page 20