(Yicai Global) Jan. 13 -- Stock markets on China's mainland continued their upward momentum at the open, with most major market indexes setting out at highs unseen for several years.

The Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.14 percent to 3,613.28 at the gate, while its Nasdaq-like Star Market Board 50 Index, or Star 50, gained 0.49 percent to 1,412.07.

The Shenzhen Component Index was up 0.20 percent at 15,491.07. The ChiNext Price Index, which tracks growth enterprises listed in Shenzhen, advanced 0.01 percent to 3,180.75

Chinese stocks went steadily higher yesterday afternoon, with the Shanghai Composite Index and the Shenzhen Component Index both closing at more than five-year peaks.

Editor: Ben Armour