Welcome to a fresh month, traders. Hong Kong and mainland stocks gained on data showing mainland manufacturing activity increased. Catch up on the day's action below. Please help us improve our blog by taking this quick -- under 2 minutes! -- survey . Your feedback will really help us make the blog better for you! Also, if you would like the Live Stocks Blog emailed to you each morning, click here . -- Deb Price and Snow Xia in Hong Kong Note: Information in this blog is on an "as is" basis and not a solicitation or offer to buy or sell any securities or otherwise; and is not investment/professional advice or services in this regard. It is subject to our T&C. SCMP (as defined in T&C ) shall not be liable for any loss, damage and costs relating to any investments in securities or otherwise in this connection.