China's retail sales rise boosts Hong Kong stocks

China's retail sales rose 4 percent in January and February, surpassing the expected 3.8 percent increase. This positive economic data has led to gains in Hong Kong stocks. The Hang Seng Index increased by 1.2 percent, reaching 24,238.41. AIA Group saw a 3.4 percent rise after reporting a significant profit jump and announcing a stock buy-back plan. Li Ning and HSBC also posted gains. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index fell slightly by 0.1 percent, while the Shanghai Composite Index rose by 0.3 percent. Industrial production and fixed-asset investment also exceeded projections.