Kathmandu- The Nepal Stock Exchange index declined on Wednesday as investors booked profits across sectors.

The NEPSE index fell 9.43 points to close at 2,705.38. The market dropped by 0.34 percent by the end of trading.

Out of the traded stocks, 174 declined while 82 advanced. Three stocks remained unchanged, showing broad based selling pressure.

Total turnover reached Rs 8.92 billion. Investors traded 21.64 million shares through 89,766 transactions. A total of 324 scrips changed hands.

Ankhu Khola Jalvidhyut Company Ltd (AKJCL)  led the turnover table with transactions worth over Rs 433.6 million. NRN Infrastructure and Development Limited (NRN)
followed with Rs 350.5 million, while Himalayan Reinsurance Limited (HRL) recorded turnover of Rs 332.3 million.

Kalika power Company Ltd (KPCL) emerged as the top gainer. Its share price rose by Rs 56.10 or 9.84 percent. Narayani Development Bank Limited ( NABBC ) gained 9.16 percent, while River Falls Power Limited (RFPL) added 5.50 percent.

Market sentiment remained cautious throughout the session. The index moved downward for most of the trading hours and closed near the day’s low.