Around the World's Markets: HONG KONG

THE HANG SENG index rose more than 200 points to 9,985.54, before settling back to close at 9.927.05, a net gain of 148.14 and its best closing level since 12 May, following the Hong Kong government's assurance that it is in no hurry to unload the shares bought in its support operation.

Property and banking shares led the way, while Swire Pacific "A" rose HK$2 to HK$34.60 and Hutchison Whampoa gained 75 cents to HK$52.50.

The market is closed today.