Around the World's Markets: Hong Kong

BARGAIN-HUNTING pushed Hong Kong shares higher, with the benchmark Hang Seng index closing up 46.31 points at 13,179.70. The index dipped below the 13,000 level during the trading day to set an intraday low of 12,881.60.

Howard Gorges, head of research at South China Securities, said: "The market seems to be alive and well but a bit cautious on blue chips and the big rises."

The Tokyo market was closed for a national holiday.