Kayes M Sohel
Dhaka Stock Exchange is expected to go for online trading by December, in a move to net more new investors from home and abroad.
Necessary infrastructure for introducing internet-based trading is being developed with the assistance of Cambridge Solution Limited, an American-Indian joint venture IT company.
Traditionally, equities trading in Bangladesh is carried out through brokers, in person or over phone, but with the availability of mobile and Internet, shopping for shares will be as easy as making a few clicks from one's PC or mobile phone.
"We will go for online trading by December this year," said Rakibur Rahman, immediate past president of the DSE. "For fast moving markets, it is necessary to introduce the system," he said.
Internet-based or online trading system means buying and selling stocks by placing the order through internet, usually on a broker's form. Confirmation is made by mail or e-mail.
ASM Khairuzzaman, head of DSE IT department said, "DSE is working with Cambridge Solution Limited to upgrade the software for paving the way for internet trading by December 15."
"It's just through a click of mouse, a registered investor can buy and sell stocks from online brokers offering executions from any place of the globe," he said.
Experts say it is a good move to keep abreast with the age of information technology.
"But the bourse should ensure more quality shares in the face of huge demand, which should also be intensified by introducing internet trading that attracts more new investors," said an expert.
Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE), the second bourse of the country, introduced the system in 2005. But it still remains unpopular among the investors due to certain disadvantage of the service.
As part of its efforts for making the online trading easier and popular across the country and among non-resident Bangladeshis, it recently launched road show from Sylhet.
The CSE, so far, allowed 21 brokerage houses to offer online trading to their clients out of a total member of 135.
The average trading value of the CSE was Tk 660 million in 2009 and Tk 420 million in 2008. Over 200 companies are listed with the second bourse of the country.
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