Hong Kong's shares faced a relatively choppy morning traded but accelerated prior to the close and sent the main stock index higher. Hang Seng index gained 0.82% or 153.96 and settled at 19,026.52. The Esprit plunged 21%, most in the index after its CEO Ronald Van der Vis resigned. He is the second top manager that resigns in 6 months. Van der Vis claimed he is resigning due to family and personal reasons.