A surprise rebound in Macau's housing market has kindled hopes for recovery - despite clouds of uncertainty still hanging over the battered property sector.

The number of home sales jumped to nearly 1,000 last month, compared to a monthly volume of between 400 and 500 at the end of last year and in the first two months of this year, according to Centaline Property Agency in Macau.

A government plan to subsidise home buyers is believed to be a key factor behind the improved figures.

South China Morning Post