The benchmark VN-Index on the HCM Stock Exchange edged down one per cent to stand at 667.7 points. — Photo tinnhanhchungkhoan.vn

Shares fell more steeply in morning trade as large-cap stocks declined across the two markets.

The benchmark VN-Index on the HCM Stock Exchange edged down one per cent to stand at 667.7 points. The index inched down 0.1 per cent yesterday.

On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange, the HNX-Index decreased 0.13 per cent to 79.8 points. The gauge was up 0.3 per cent on Monday.

Market breadth was negative with 233 stocks declining, 146 advancing and 316 remaining flat.

Over 73 million shares worth nearly VND1.3 trillion (US$57.3 million) were traded on the two markets.

Blue chips led the downturn as 23 of the top 30 largest stocks by market capitalisation and liquidity lost value and only five increased.

Vinamilk (VNM), the largest stock, slumped 2.4 per cent.

Brewery giant Sabeco (SAB), the second highest valued stock on HCM City’s market, dropped for the second day, down 3.8 per cent to VND204,000 per share, but remained the most expensive stock here.

Insurer giant Bao Viet Holdings (BVH) slipped 2.8 per cent while private equity Masan Group (MSN) decreased nearly two per cent.

The afternoon session starts at 1pm. — VNS