(Yicai Global) Feb. 21 - China's mainland stock markets began the day slightly lower, while shares of non-banking financial firms and leasing companies swam against the current to lead gains.

The Shanghai Composite Index declined 0.05 percent to open at 2,759.94 points. The Shenzhen Component Index slid 0.07 percent to 8,467.15 points. The ChiNext Price Index, involving Shenzhen's small caps, dropped 0.20 percent to 1,405.52 points.

Editor: Emmi Laine