Hong Kong stocks edge up in early trade

HONG KONG: Hong Kong stocks were slightly higher in early trade on Tuesday as bargain buyers stepped in after the index closed at its lowest level in more than two years in the previous session.

The benchmark Hang Seng Index was 1.62 points up at 16,823.77.

The market's gains come despite heavy selling across Asia caused by growing fears that Greece's sovereign debt crisis will lead to it defaulting, which could spread to other economies.

On Monday the Hang Seng fell more than four percent to 16,822.15, its lowest close since May 15, 2009.