Countdown to World Expo propels stocks

SHANGHAI: As bells are going to ring out in Shanghai on Thursday to mark the start of the 100-day countdown to the 2010 World Expo, some fair-related stocks have reason to celebrate after witnessing an "Expo-fever" surge.

Shanghai precious metal retailer Lao Feng Xiang Co saw its shares rise a 10 percent daily limit to close at 32.55 yuan yesterday. Over the last month alone the company's stock has soared 20.5 percent, while the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index rose a mere 4.27 percent during the same period.

Shanghai Jinjiang International Hotels Development Co Ltd is also reaping rewards from Expo fever via its 91.2 percent stake in budget hotel chain, the Jinjiang Inn.