The Shanghai Composite fell 0.9% to below 4,090, while the Shenzhen Component dropped 0.2% to 13,995 on Wednesday, extending losses from the prior session as investors reacted to mixed PMI data. Official figures showed Chinese manufacturing and services sectors contracted for a second consecutive month in February as the long Lunar New Year holiday disrupted economic activity. In contrast, a private survey indicated that both manufacturing and services activity accelerated last month. Attention now turns to the annual “Two Sessions” gathering, where authorities are expected to set economic targets and outline policy priorities. Globally, equities remain under pressure amid the escalating Middle East conflict, which has pushed energy prices higher and stoked inflation fears. Key losers included Zhongji Innolight (-2.4%), Eoptolink Technology (-1.5%), and Zijin Mining (-1.5%).
