Hong Kong Stocks Start the Week Lower

According to Trading Economics data, Hong Kong stocks declined by approximately 165 points, or 0.6%, to 25,915 points in morning trading on Monday, ending a two-session gain, with most sectors down, led by financial and consumer stocks.

This decline comes amid cautious investor sentiment ahead of the release of Chinese trade data for November later today, following unexpected declines in exports and weaker-than-expected imports reported for October. Attention is also on the upcoming consumer and producer price index readings this week, amid ongoing deflationary risks.

At the same time, U.S. stock futures were mixed as markets await the Federal Reserve's decision this week, influenced by signs of a slowing labor market and anticipated changes in central bank leadership.

Despite the decline, new data showing an increase in China's foreign exchange reserves in November helped limit losses ahead of the Central Economic Work Conference. Additionally, Hong Kong's reserves rose for the second consecutive month, reaching a five-month high.

Notable losers included:

• Pop Mart (-5.8%)
• Innovent Biologics (-5.7%)
• Cherry Auto (-4.2%)
• China Hongqiao (-3.4%)