Push to expand investor participation in stock market

Experts at a seminar on Thursday emphasised the need to expand investor participation in the stock market by drawing more investors particularly from the northern region of the country.
"We don't see investors from all parts of the country. Some districts have a higher concentration of stock investors, while others remain relatively untouched," said Md Abdul Halim, a commissioner of Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC).
"We should take steps to encourage investment from these underrepresented regions, especially in the northern parts of the country, where the number of female investors is also noticeably low," he added.
The BSEC commissioner spoke as the chief guest at the seminar on 'Sustainable Practice and Untapped Investment Opportunities' held at the DSE Multipurpose Hall.
This event, jointly organised by the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) and the DSE Brokers Association of Bangladesh (DBA), marked the conclusion of World Investor Week-2023.
Emphasising the role of the regulator, Commissioner Md. Abdul Halim noted, "As a regulator, our foremost responsibility is to safeguard the interests of investors. We have taken significant steps to ensure the protection of investors' stakes. Successfully implementing these measures would encourage investors to return to the market."
He also said, "We do not want inequality in our country, but the reality is that we have significant income inequality. We want to create a more equitable society and a sustainable economy. Achieving this goal will provide a safer environment for future generations."
He advised the prospective stock investors to be well-prepared before entering the capital market.
Mr Halim said, "No one should enter the capital market under the influence of others. Most investors who suffer losses are often ill-prepared and driven by rumours."
Chairman of Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) Dr Hafiz Md. Hasan Babu, who presided over the seminar, stressed the importance of good governance to attract foreign investment and ensure the market's sustainability.
Richard D' Rozario, President of the DBA, urged investors to educate themselves adequately to avoid risks and learn how to make long-term investments for better returns.
Managing Director of Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) Dr. ATM Tariquzzaman presented the keynote speech at the seminar.
DSE Director Md Shakil Rizvi, DBA Vice president Md Saifuddin and Director of Global Reporting Initiative Dr. Aditi Haldar also spoke at the seminar.

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