Hong Kong stocks close sharply higher
Hong Kong stocks ended another strong week on a positive note on Friday as traders welcomed data showing US inflation slowing further in December, raising hopes the Federal Reserve would ease back in its monetary tightening drive. The Hang Seng Index rose 1 percent, or 224 points, to 21,738. The Shanghai Composite Index rallied 1 percent, or 31 points, to 3,195, while the Shenzhen Composite Index climbed 0.9 percent, or 18 points, to 2,067. (AFP)