Hong Kong Stocks Begin Month Higher

The Hang Seng Index edged up 0.4%, or 94 points, to 25,978 on Monday, tracking gains across global markets as investor sentiment improved on optimism over renewed US-Iran talks. Oil prices declined while US equity-index futures advanced after US President Donald Trump announced that fresh negotiations with Iran would begin on Monday, raising hopes of easing tensions in the Middle East and the eventual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. In addition, Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan signaled that the government is expected to raise its 2026 GDP growth forecast later this month following stronger-than-expected economic performance, while the launch of offshore China Government Bond Futures reinforced the city’s role as an international financial hub. Notable movers included Tencent (2.1%), Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (0.5%), Kuaishou (1.2%), Lenovo (0.5%), and Shenzhen Xunce (15.8%).





