The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) witnessed a strong upward movement on Wednesday, with the benchmark index gaining more than 30 points amid increased investor participation.

According to the stock exchange, the NEPSE index rose by 30.08 points to close at 2,754.48, marking a 1.10% increase compared to the previous trading session. The market rally reflected growing optimism among investors as a majority of listed companies recorded price gains.

The Sensitive Index, which tracks the performance of large-cap companies, also climbed 3.68 points to settle at 471.06.

A total of 10.66 million shares of 346 companies were traded during the session, generating a turnover of Rs 3.82 billion. In terms of transaction value, Corporate Development Bank emerged as the top-traded company, followed by Ankhu Khola Hydropower, API Power Company, Ridi Power Company, and National Hydropower.

Hydropower and banking stocks remained among the major attraction points for investors. Shares of Upper Lohore Khola Hydropower, Mountain Hydropower, Bungal Hydropower, Shikhar Power Development, and City Hotel posted the highest gains of the day.

On the losing side, investors in Corporate Development Bank, SBL Debenture, Prime Debenture, Bottlers Nepal Balaju, and Nepal SBI Bank Debenture recorded the highest losses.

Out of the traded companies, share prices of 248 companies advanced while only 21 declined, indicating broad-based positive momentum across the market. Analysts believe improving investor confidence and increased market activity are contributing to the recent bullish trend.