The Hang Seng Index strengthened again on Thursday (February 5th), recording its third consecutive day of gains in Hong Kong trading. The index edged up 0.1%, or +37.92 points, to 26,885.24, indicating that market sentiment remained relatively well-maintained, although the gains were not aggressive.

Today's buying activity appeared more selective. The majority of stocks rose, but the index's pace remained "slow" as some investors preferred to wait for the next catalyst whether from global interest rates, geopolitical headlines, or capital flows into specific sectors in Asia.

Among contributors, Xiaomi Corp. was the biggest driver of the index, with its shares rising around 2.8%. Xiaomi's gains provided an additional boost to the technology/consumer group, which remains a favorite when risk-on sentiment emerges, even though global volatility has not yet fully subsided.

Meanwhile, Haidilao International recorded the largest increase among major stocks today, rising around 4.0%. Haidilao's surge indicates that interest in consumer stocks remains, particularly in issuers considered to have room for performance recovery amidst dynamic regional demand.

Broadly speaking, market breadth also tended to be positive : 61 of 88 stocks rose, while 25 fell. This means that the gains were not driven by just one or two issuers, but were quite widespread although some stocks remained behind due to profit-taking or sectoral sentiment.

Sector-wise, three of the four sectors closed higher, led by the trade & industrial group, which was the backbone of today's gains. With the Hang Seng still near its 52 week peak, the market will now test whether this slight rally can translate into a stronger momentum, or whether it will enter a consolidation phase while awaiting the next major catalyst. (arl) [sma]

Source : Newsmaker.id