Shares of military, tech firms mobilize stock rally

The mainland's benchmark stock index rose to a 15-month high, led by defense and technology companies, amid speculation the government will increase military spending as part of its efforts to bolster economic growth.

China Spacesat Co and Aerospace Communications Holdings Co rallied 10 percent. President Xi Jinping called for more innovation in the country's armed forces and a new strategy for "information warfare", the Xinhua News Agency reported on Sunday.

Liquor makers Kweichow Moutai Co and Wuliangye Yibin Co paced gains for consumer companies most immune to swings in the economy. Hong Yuan Securities Co led a rally for brokerages, up 6.5 percent.