FX.co ★ Hang Seng Edges Higher at Finish

The Hang Seng Index edged up by 18 points, or 0.1%, to conclude at 25,946 on Thursday, extending its rally for the fourth consecutive session, primarily driven by gains in the financial sector. Investor sentiment received a boost from Beijing's latest initiative to stimulate consumption. This plan involves upgrading rural consumer goods and providing support to sectors such as pet care and toys. Additionally, a slight uptick in mainland stocks contributed to the improved risk sentiment, buoyed by optimism surrounding the domestic AI industry. However, economic data revealed a decline in China's industrial profits for October, marking the first drop in three months. This decline underscores the challenges posed by weak domestic demand and export issues. Trading activity remained subdued as U.S. markets were closed for the Thanksgiving holiday, with a shorter trading day anticipated on Friday. In corporate developments, the state-supported developer China Vanke announced plans to postpone an onshore bond repayment for the first time, raising concerns about the property sector. Among the notable stock movements were Pop Mart International with a 7.1% increase, Smoore Holdings rising by 4.3%, Laopu Gold up by 4.1%, and Akeso Inc. gaining 3.8%.