The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) index has continued its declining trend, closing below the 2,600-point mark on the second trading day of the week. 

Following a decline of 50.73 points on Sunday, the index fell further by 57.03 points, or 2.16 percent, ending Monday at 2,580.76 points.

The index had rapidly surged past 3,000 points last month. Alongside the index, daily turnover amount has also been sliding down.

But, experts continue to be optimistic. The drop in share prices following the index's decline may motivate investors to buy stocks, potentially boosting trading volume in the coming days.

The monday’s session witnessed the trade of 312 scrips in 92,815 transactions. 

The declining market saw over 17 million shares traded, resulting in a turnover of Rs 7.36 billion, down from Rs 10.34 billion on Sunday.

The Sensitive Index and Float Index decreased by 1.82 percent and 2.15 percent, respectively, while the Sensitive Float Index decreased by 1.97 percent.

Out of the traded stocks, 14 saw an increase in their prices, 227 experienced a decline, while share prices of three companies remained unchanged.

Aatmanirbhar Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (ANLB) became the top gainer of the day, hitting the upper circuit limit. Himalayan Hydropower Limited (HHL) and Janautthan Samudayic Laghubitta Bittya Sanstha Limited (JSLBB) also experienced significant gains, with their share prices increasing by 9.99 percent and 9.92 percent, respectively. 

In contrast, Goodwill Finance Limited (GFCL) became the biggest loser of the day, with its share prices plunging by 9.91 percent.

On the turnover front, CEDB Hydropower Development Company Limited (CHDC) led the pack followed by Sanima Reliance Life Insurance Limited (SRLI).

In terms of sector wise performance,  the Finance Index experienced the largest drop of 5.66 percent, whereas the Mutual Fund Index saw the smallest decline of 1.17 percent.