Shares failed to retain yesterday's gains in Ha Noi, with the HNX-Index closing at 69.79 points, a 0.94 per cent off.

Trading was sluggish, and many listed stocks were not traded. The value and volume of transaction reached VND193.8 billion and 19.7 million shares, respectively.

Blue chips were the major cause of the fall, with the HNX30 representing the exchange's top 30 shares retreating 1.5 per cent to 132.93 points.

VNDirect Securities Co (VND) was the most heavily traded code. About 2.8 million shares changed hands. However, it lost 2.6 per cent during this morning's session.

On the HCM City Stock Exchange, the VN-Index Composite edged up 0.28 per cent to finish this morning at 424.35 points.

About 23.5 million shares worth a total of VND401.2 billion (US$19 million) changed hands.
However, many blue chips tracked by the VN30 tumbled, such as insurer Bao Viet Holdings (BVH), Phu My Fertiliser (DPM), software giant (FPT), property developer Tan Tao (ITA), financial conglomerate Ocean Group (OGC) and Sai Gon Securities Inc (SSI).

The VN30, however, still gained 0.3 per cent to hit 504.49 points.

Tay Bac Mineral Co (KTB) was the most active stock on the southern bourse. It saw nearly 1.7 million shares exchanged and hit a ceiling price of VND9,000 per share.

The market will resume at 1pm.