Drinks maker China Resources Beverage's shares ended 15% higher in their Hong Kong debut on Wednesday, giving dealmakers hope that more big-ticket initial public offerings could be on the way. The company sold 347.

Asian equities were mixed overnight despite a stronger US dollar. Hong Kong and South Korea outperformed, while Thailand was closed for Chulalongkorn Day, a national holiday commemorating His Majesty King Chulalongkorn the Great’s passing.

Baillie Gifford & Co. and Norges Bank Investment Management were among the investors in Horizon Robotics’ $696 million Hong Kong initial public offering, according to people familiar with the matter.

Hong Kong has recorded its busiest week for new IPO launches in almost two years with deals opened to raise up to $1.3 billion, giving bankers and investors confidence the two-year share sale freeze could be easing.

Trading under the code 2460, CR Beverage jumped 13.8 per cent to change hands at HK$16.50, from its IPO price of HK$14.50.

Horizon Robotics, a Chinese autonomous driving technology provider, aims to raise US$696 million through its Hong Kong IPO, potentially providing a boost to the city's listing market after a prolonged downturn.

China and Hong Kong stocks opened higher on Wednesday, bolstered by government support for the economy. The CSI300 Index slightly dipped, while the Hang Seng rose. Despite being lower than past highs,

Drinks maker China Resources Beverage's shares traded nearly 15% higher in their Hong Kong debut on Wednesday, giving dealmakers hope that more big-ticket initial public offerings could be on the way.