Are Chinese stocks headed for a rebound?

The benchmark Shanghai Composite was the world’s worst performing major stock market last year, tumbling more than 25%. It was weighed down by fears about China’s slowing economy and the trade war with the United States.

But 2019 could be much better. Analysts at HSBC (HBCYF) forecast Chinese stocks could rise a further 18% this year after already gaining 5% in January. A resurgent stock market could help improve the gloomy mood among Chinese consumers, whose reluctance to spend has hurt top global brands like Apple (AAPL).