Negative input from oversea markets dragged the Qatar Exchange (QE). The QE Index closed 0.78% lower at 6,963.53 points. Investors booked profits in the financial segment in particular. The country's largest financial institution Qatar National Bank (QNB) ended 0.43% lower at QR137. Fitch ratings services affirmed the 'A+' rating of QNB with outlook 'stable'. Trading volumes dropped insignificantly as 3.77m stocks changed hands (compared to 3.91m shares on Wednesday).