HSI Higher On US Lead, Strong China Data

Hong Kong stocks closed slightly higher on Monday, extending a recent winning streak, following a healthy lead from Wall Street and after data showed retail sales in China rose more than expected last month.

The Hang Seng Index rose 0.25 percent, or 62.94 points, to 25,390.91.

The Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.16 percent, or 5.80 points, to 3,533.30, while the Shenzhen Composite Index on China's second exchange eased 0.19 percent, or 4.77 points, to 2,462.39.

Asian equity markets mostly rose to build on a recent run-up following the healthy showing on Wall Street, though inflation concerns continue to dampen the mood.

While optimism about the global economic recovery remains intact, the rise in prices at rates not seen for decades has traders increasingly worried that central banks will have to tighten monetary policy quicker and more sharply than previously thought. (AFP)