The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) continued its downward trend on Wednesday, falling by 22.73 points to settle at 2,610.21. This marks the sixth consecutive trading day of decline for the index, which has lost a total of 219.97 points during this period.

The declining market saw over 15 million shares traded, resulting in a turnover of Rs 6.85 billion, down from Rs 7.25 billion on Tuesday.

With the market in a downturn, share prices have become considerably cheaper. Brokers report that, apart from urgent situations, there is a reluctance among investors to sell their shares due to these lower prices. 

Technical analysts noted that sellers are hesitant to sell at reduced prices, while buyers are cautious about purchasing at current levels. This has led to a slowdown in investor activity and a decrease in turnover.

Experts also observed that NEPSE's recent slowdown is partly due to profit-takers who have not yet re-entered the market after a significant 46 percent surge within a short span. 

The Sensitive Index and Float Index fell by 0.92% and 0.86%, respectively, while the Sensitive Float Index dropped by 0.73%.

Out of the traded stocks, 175 experienced a decline in their prices, 65 saw an increase, while share prices of 4 companies remained unchanged.

Wean Nepal Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (WNLB), Three Star Hydropower Limited (TSHL), Samaj Laghubittya Bittiya Sanstha Limited (SAMAJ) were the top gainers of the day, with increases of 10%, 9.48%, and 6.81%, respectively.

In contrast, Asian Hydropower Limited (AHL) experienced the largest decline, plunging 6.88%.

On the turnover front, CEDB Hydropower Development Company Limited (CHDC) led the pack followed by NLG Insurance Company Ltd. (NLG).

In terms of sector wise performance, the Life Insurance Index recorded the largest decrease, falling by 1.87%, while the Finance Index saw the most significant gain of 0.43%.