Fundraising activity in Hong Kong more than doubled during the first half of the year, as companies raised $45.5 billion during the period, including $31.4 billion via follow-on offerings and equity-lined deals, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKG:0388) said in a report released Wednesday, citing Dealogic and Bloomberg data.

The figure, which represents a 152% rise from a year earlier, was supported by stronger investor sentiment and a steady stream of quality companies entering the market, the bourse said.

The region also saw the most IPO fundraising during the period, with companies generating $14.1 billion in proceeds -- up 695% year over year and far ahead of the 8% growth in total IPO funds raised across the world.

Among the companies going public were eight A-share firms that collectively raised $10.1 billion to finance their international expansion.