Hong Kong: Stocks end higher after China data

[HONG KONG] Hong Kong shares closed slightly higher Wednesday as data showed China's economy grew at its slowest quarterly rate since the height of the global financial crisis, raising hopes for further monetary easing.

The benchmark Hang Seng Index added 57.33 points or 0.21 per cent to 27,618.82. Turnover was HK$216.15 billion.

In mainland China the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index fell 1.24 per cent, or 51.40 points, to 4,084.16 on turnover of 773.1 billion yuan.

The Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, dived 3.68 per cent, or 80.24 points, to 2,101.65 on turnover of 558.1 billion yuan.

AFP