Equities edge up on growth numbers

Mainland stocks rose for a second day, led by materials producers and retailers, after the nation's manufacturing grew at the fastest pace since April 2004 and the government said it will extend efforts to boost consumption.

The Shanghai Composite Index rose 40.06, or 1.25 percent, to 3235.36 at the close. The gauge surged 3.2 percent on Monday after the government pledged to maintain stimulus policies next year. The CSI 300 Index added 1.4 percent to 3560.83.

"We are still confident that China's economy is on a solid track," said Nina Wu, who co-manages a $991-million Greater China fund at Hamon Asset Management Ltd.