Hong Kong stocks fell sharply at the open on Thursday after US and European markets ended in a sea of red due to inconclusive US election results and a turbulent cryptocurrency market.

The Hang Seng Index shed 1.35 percent, or 220 points, to 16,138.

The Shanghai Composite Index dropped 0.71 percent, or 21.67 points, to 3026, while the Shenzhen Composite Index was down 0.59 percent, or 11.93 points to 1999 in early trade. (AFP)