Chinese stocks back in black after worst day in 18 months

China's stock market has rebounded slightly on Tuesday after its worst day for 18 months, as the country's parliament begins its annual session.

Hong Kong's Hang Seng index was up 0.4% and the Shanghai Composite gained 0.7%, after it plummeted 3.7% on Monday, its worst loss since August 2011. The small rebound was triggered by outgoing Premier Wen Jiabao confirming a growth target for 2013 of 7.5% and unveiling other market estimates that met expectations. Meanwhile, Japan's Nikkei extended its gains on hopes that the Bank of Japan would give the green light for further monetary easing under the new central bank chief, Haruhiko Kuroda. The country's stocks were up 0.8% at 11,746.90 in mid-morning trading after rising as far...