Hong Kong stocks fell 82 points or 0.3% to 25,855 in Friday’s morning session, reversing gains from the prior day amid broad sector losses. Sentiment weakened as traders turned cautious ahead of key November data from China next week, including CPI, PPI, and trade figures, while also awaiting potential policy signals from the upcoming Central Economic Work Conference. Adding to the pressure were renewed concerns over China’s shadow banking system, after reports that some provinces are turning to costly credit from non-bank lenders. The benchmark Hang Seng Index is on track to end the week slightly lower, down about 0.1% so far, after posting gains in the previous period. Limiting declines were an uptick in U.S. futures following a muted Wall Street session overnight, with markets preparing for next week’s Fed interest rate decision. Among early notable laggards were Shenzhou International (-4.1%), Trip.com (-2.2%), Galaxy Entertainment (-2.1%), and Haidilao International (-1.0%).
