Hong Kong stocks rose at the open of trade on Thursday morning following advances on Wall Street, with a strong US retail sales report indicating the world's top economy remains robust despite surging interest rates.

The Hang Seng Index gained 0.65 percent to 20,947.

The Shanghai Composite Index was marginally higher, inching up 1.24 points to 3,281, while the Shenzhen Composite Index was also barely moved, dipping 0.42 points, to 2,187. (AFP)