FX.co ★ Hong Kong Finishes Slightly Higher

The Hang Seng Index experienced a rise of 45 points, equivalent to an increase of 0.2%, reaching a closing value of 25,819 on Wednesday. This uptick follows a slight decrease in the previous session, with most sectors demonstrating modest gains amid the light trading typical of the holiday period, spearheaded by financials. The positive sentiment was bolstered by the Shanghai benchmark's sixth consecutive advance. In parallel, on Tuesday, the Trump administration disclosed plans to impose tariffs on Chinese semiconductor imports due to what it describes as Beijing's aggressive pursuit of dominance in the chip industry. However, these tariffs are expected to come into effect only in June 2027, which mitigates any immediate impact. Looking ahead, investors are keenly anticipating Hong Kong's November trade data, set to be released next week. This follows October's data, where exports surged by 17.5% compared to the previous year, and imports rose by 18.3%, thereby expanding the trade deficit. Noteworthy market movers included SMIC, which saw a 3.1% increase, China Hongqiao Group at 2.3%, China Merchants Port Holdings at 1.9%, and CK Infrastructure Holdings at 1.8%. The markets closed early for the Christmas Eve holiday and are scheduled to reopen on Monday, December 29.