Shanghai composite hits year-to-date high

China's benchmark Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.16 percent, closing at 3,639.67 points on Thursday, marking the fourth consecutive session of gains and the highest level so far this year.

The rise was driven by gains in sectors including energy equipment, aerospace, and healthcare, while the Shenzhen Component Index fell 0.18 percent to close at 11,157.94 points. The ChiNext Index, which tracks China's Nasdaq-style board for growth enterprises, dropped 0.68 percent to finish at 2,342.86 points.