Trading in Hong Kong financial markets opened as usual on Thursday morning despite the T8 typhoon signal - the first time since authorities scrapped trading suspension under severe weather in September.

The Hong Kong Stock Exchanges and Clearing said securities and derivatives markets will remain fully operational.

The Hang Seng Index opened down 197 points, or 0.99 percent, at 19,626 on Thursday.

On the mainland, stocks also opened lower, with the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index down 0.28 percent at 3,429. The Shenzhen Component Index opened 0.23 percent lower at 11,333 points. (Additional reporting by Xinhua)