Hong Kong's office and shop transactions rose by nearly 31 percent in September over the previous month.

But overall, the number of industrial and commercial deals declined by 4.1 percent.

An agent said there were 209 transactions worth a total of HK$5.56 billion last month, down 8.5 percent over the previous month and 25.7 percent from a year ago.

There were nine large-value deals exceeding HK$100 million compared to five in August.

There were 34 office deals including at least four worth over HK$100 million each and 52 shop transactions, together worth HK$1.01 billion and up by 15.7 percent month-on-month.

While the number of industrial deals fell by 16 percent to 123, their total value rose by nearly 40 percent to HK$2.38 billion.

He said the significant increase in transactions showed confidence was returning to the market, which has been boosted by China's stimulus blitz. He expects better sales this month, including an increase in large-value transactions.

In other news, Australian cycling apparel brand MAAP opened its first flagship store in Hong Kong yesterday.

The store, located on the ground floor of Man Yee Arcade for leasing in Central, occupies an area of 2,061 square feet.