Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2026-01-05 22:45Core Viewpoint - The report from Shenwan Hongyuan indicates a significant positive correlation between the Renminbi (RMB) and Hong Kong stocks historically, but recent rapid appreciation of the RMB has not translated into gains for Hong Kong stocks due to weak earnings and the absence of revaluation and foreign capital allocation effects [1][2]. Group 1: RMB and Hong Kong Stocks Relationship - Historically, there has been a notable positive correlation between the RMB and Hong Kong stocks, particularly since 2016, with a correlation coefficient of -0.54 between the Hang Seng Index and the USD/RMB exchange rate [2]. - When the RMB appreciates by more than 1.5% in a month, the Hang Seng Index has a 93.5% probability of rising; however, since November 13, the RMB has appreciated by 1.9%, while the Hang Seng Index has declined by 4.8%, indicating a significant divergence [2][3]. Group 2: Factors Affecting Hong Kong Stocks - The weak performance of key sectors in Hong Kong stocks has limited the positive impact of RMB appreciation on earnings, with the Hang Seng Index's expected earnings per share (EPS) continuing to decline since Q4 2025 [3]. - The appreciation of the RMB can amplify both profits and losses for Hong Kong stocks, but recent declines in property and oil prices have hindered the asset revaluation logic that typically benefits the market [3]. Group 3: Future Outlook for Hong Kong Stocks and RMB - The potential for a return to a positive correlation between Hong Kong stocks and the RMB hinges on improvements in earnings and the restoration of foreign capital allocation effects [4]. - The combination of upward earnings growth expectations for the next fiscal year and downward expectations for the current fiscal year may signal a recovery in profit expectations for Hong Kong stocks [4]. - As the year-end profit-taking period concludes, the January effect is expected to be strong, and the resilience of the RMB may continue, supported by the gradual restoration of revaluation and allocation effects [4].