Mainland Data Fails To Impress HK Investors

Hong Kong stocks ended the morning barely moved on Tuesday as data showed that the mainland's economy grew more than expected in the first three months of the year.

The Hang Seng Index inched up just 0.6 points to 30,316 by the break.

On the the Shanghai Composite Index edged down 0.5 percent to 3,093, while the Shenzhen Composite Index slipped 1.1 percent, to 1,804.

Most other Asian markets rose, but trade and geopolitical tensions continue to dog sentiment.

Sydney, where a number of firms that rely on Chinese business are based, added 0.4 percent, while Singapore gained 0.1 percent.

Tokyo ended the morning session marginally higher.

But Seoul eased 0.1 percent, Wellington dipped 0.2 percent and Taipei fell 0.8 percent.

Asian dealers are keeping a close watch on global events, while the trade row with China remains in focus after the Wall Street Journal reported the US is considering measures over Beijing's restrictions on tech devices.

That came just after Washington banned exports of sensitive tech to Chinese firm ZTE for seven years over the way it handled a probe into the illegal sale of goods to Iran and North Korea.

ZTE halted trading of its shares in Hong Kong and Shenzhen following the announcement, saying in a statement on its website it was "assessing the possible impact of the incident". (AFP)

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