The Hang Seng closed a bit higher at 26,765 on Monday, reversing early losses and marking a fourth straight gain amid strength mainly from property and financial stocks. The property index rose 1.8%, lifted by signs of stabilization in Hong Kong’s housing market on the back of falling interest rates, rising rents, and the removal of stamp duty. Financials also advanced, ahead of the U.S. Fed’s policy decision later this week, following China’s move to keep lending rates at record lows for the eighth month to bolster growth. Gold and mining stocks in Hong Kong outperformed, with Laopu Gold (7.2%), Chow Tai Fook (2.9%), and Zhaojin Mining (1.6%) buoyed by record gold above USD 5,000 and strength in base metals. Other notable movers included Sun Hung Kai Properties (3.7%), Mixue Group (3.6%), and China Hongqiao Group (2.0%). Traders now anticipate China’s 2025 industrial profit report due on Tuesday, following muted January–November growth of 0.1% and a sharp 13% drop in November.
