China stocks close flat despite new consumption measures
Chinese stocks ended nearly unchanged on Monday as new government plans to boost domestic consumption did not attract investor interest. The State Council announced measures to increase income and introduce childcare subsidies, but details remain unclear. The blue-chip CSI300 Index fell 0.2%, while the Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.2%. Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index increased by 0.8%. Despite some retail sales growth, the property sector continues to struggle, with declines in prices and investment. Consumer staples stocks initially rose but lost most gains by the end of the day. Real estate shares increased by 0.7%. Investors are looking for more regional support measures following a subsidy announcement in Inner Mongolia.