KATHMANDU: Stock market declined on Sunday after eight straight sessions of gains.

The NEPSE index fell by 18.44 points to close at 2,964. Although it crossed 3,012 by mid-session, selling pressure pulled it down. The 3,000-point mark again acted as resistance.

Trading volume surged to Rs 26.57 billion—highest since August 18 last year—up from Rs 18.49 billion on Thursday.

Hydropower led with Rs 11.62 billion in turnover, making up 43% of total trades. Development banks, microfinance, and manufacturing also crossed Rs 2 billion each.

Out of all listed companies, 63 saw price gains and 186 declined. Development banks, manufacturing, and trade sectors rose slightly, while finance dropped the most by 1.99%.

Three companies—Samata Microfinance, Trade Tower, and Sanvi Energy—gained 10%. Trade Tower hit Rs 713 per share. Major losers included Narayani Development Bank and Rapti Hydro.

Top traded stocks were Shivam Cement, Ngadi Group, Nepal Reinsurance, Kalika Power, and Green Ventures.