Shanghai stocks down ahead of next China data release

Hong Kong: Shanghai stocks opened slightly lower Wednesday ahead of the release of more Chinese economic data following recent weak readings on trade and inflation. The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.15 percent, or 5.49 points, to 3,635.00, while the Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, edged up 0.09 percent, or 1.90 points, to 2,211.51.

In Hong Kong the benchmark Hang Seng Index added 0.17 percent, or 37.96 points, to 22,439.66, tracking a broadly positive lead from Wall Street.