Hong Kong, mainland shares put on gains

Hong Kong stocks extended gains after US lawmakers reached a deal to raise the debt ceiling and avoid a catastrophic default.

The Hang Seng Index rose 0.55 percent, or 136 points, to 24,837.

Shares in mainland China also rose on Friday as investors returned from a week-long break to catch up with a global rally.

The Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.67 percent, or 24 points, to 3,592, while the Shenzhen Composite Index on China’s second exchange gained 0.79 percent, or 18 points, to 2,413. (AFP)