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This article from Four Four Two discusses 30 football teams that have had particularly difficult starts to their seasons. The teams come from different leagues and time periods, and the article provides details on each team's struggles, whether they were able to improve their performance, and any noteworthy moments or events related to their poor start. The given text consists of a collection of photographs, but without accompanying text or descriptions, it is unclear what the specific content of the photographs is. It is suggested to refer to the original source of the photographs for more information. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Four Four Two ranks the top 30 pundits in the history of UK television. The list includes well-known figures such as Robbie Savage, Slaven Bilic, Jurgen Klinsmann, Joe Cole, Chris Sutton, Glenn Hoddle, Rodney Marsh, Micah Richards, Alan Shearer, Jack Charlton, Paul Merson, Rio Ferdinand, Martin O'Neill, Emma Hayes, Derek Dougan, Thierry Henry, Mark Lawrenson, Ian St John, Graeme Souness, Jamie Carragher, Andy Gray, Alan Hansen, Ally McCoist, Malcolm Allison, Gary Neville, Jimmy Greaves, Ian Wright, Jimmy Hill, Roy Keane, and Brian Clough. Each pundit is described briefly, highlighting their notable moments and style. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Four Four Two explores the 30 greatest games in the history of the European Championship. It covers a variety of matches from different tournaments, highlighting notable victories, surprising upsets, and exciting comebacks. The article provides concise summaries of each game, along with quotes and interesting facts. It offers a diverse perspective on the tournament's history and emphasizes the cultural significance of these matches. Additionally, the article discusses a significant moment in soccer, specifically the goal scored by Pajtim Kasami, and includes relevant photographs. [Extracted from the article]

This document presents a list of the top 14 full-backs in the history of football. It includes players from different countries and eras, showcasing their accomplishments and distinctive attributes. The players mentioned have achieved great success, represented their respective national teams, and made notable contributions to the sport. The document also provides interesting facts and anecdotes about each player, offering a comprehensive overview of their impact on the game. [Extracted from the article]

This article highlights 30 notable instances of professional football players making unexpected moves to different countries or leagues throughout their careers. Examples include Dixie Dean joining Sligo Rovers in Ireland, Peter Beardsley playing for Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada, and Taribo West briefly joining Paykan in Iran. The article provides brief summaries of each player's experience in their new locations, including their achievements and any notable moments. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Four Four Two highlights 30 of the weirdest transfer moments in football history. Some of the notable incidents include Pascal Chimbonda submitting a transfer request in his kit after a match, Real Madrid loaning Julien Faubert who was accused of falling asleep on the bench, and Ashley Cole almost swerving off the road after hearing his contract offer from Arsenal. The article provides a range of bizarre and unexpected transfer stories that have occurred throughout the years. [Extracted from the article]

This article ranks the top 30 British club sides of all time. It highlights notable teams such as West Ham in 1964-65, Aberdeen in 1982-85, Rangers in 2020-21, Celtic in 2016-17, Liverpool in 2000-01, Ipswich in 1980-81, Blackburn in 1994-95, Wolves in 1957-59, Leeds in 1973-75, Preston in 1888-89, Aston Villa in 1980-82, Tottenham in 1960-61, Leicester in 2015-16, Everton in 1984-85, Arsenal in 1997-98, Huddersfield in 1923-26, Rangers in 1992-93, Manchester United in 2006-09, Liverpool in 2018-20, Nottingham Forest in 1977-80, Manchester United in 1992-94, Chelsea in 2004-06, Manchester City in 2017-19, Liverpool in 1975-78, Arsenal in 2003-04, Manchester United in 1967-68, Celtic in 1966-67, Manchester United in 1998-99, Liverpool in 1980-84, and Manchester City in 2022-23. Each team's highlights and achievements are mentioned, such as winning league titles, European trophies, and domestic trebles. [Extracted from the article]

Deng Zhouzhi stands beside a dry river bed in the shadow of Beijing's sixth ring road. Dressed in a polyester sports suit, he sports a black microphone that bounces beside [...]

Chinese stocks are expected to have a strong opening after the Lunar New Year break, following positive travel and tourism data. While the broader economy is struggling, spending patterns during the holiday indicate increased consumption. Market watchers anticipate that this data will provide a short-term boost to equities and help revive investor confidence. However, concerns remain about the sustainability of any rebound in the face of deeper economic challenges. Traders are hopeful for further policy support and stimulus measures, which will be closely watched ahead of the annual meetings in March. [Extracted from the article]

Chinese stocks are expected to have a strong opening after the Lunar New Year break, with positive travel and tourism data providing relief to the struggling market. While the broader economy is facing challenges, spending patterns during the holiday indicate increased consumption. Market watchers anticipate that this positive data will boost equities in the short term and help restore investor confidence. However, concerns remain about the sustainability of any rebound given deeper economic issues. [Extracted from the article]

German companies' direct investment in China reached a record high of nearly €12 billion ($13 billion) in 2023, indicating a desire to expand in the second-largest economy despite increased scrutiny from the European Union due to security concerns. The investment was financed by the retained profits of German-controlled enterprises in mainland China and Hong Kong. The report suggests that larger German companies view China as a large and growing market with a significant customer base, and they plan to base more of their business activities in China to mitigate risks from global trade tensions. A survey by the German Chambers of Commerce in Greater China found that 73% of large companies operating in China plan to increase investment in the next two years. The report also mentions that German companies are reinvesting their profits made in China within the country to lower costs. [Extracted from the article]

China's Lunar New Year holiday saw a surge in travel, indicating a potential pickup in consumer spending in the country. Over 61 million rail trips were made in the first six days of the holiday, a 61% increase compared to the previous year. Initial data also showed improvements in road and air trips, as well as hotel sales on Chinese e-commerce platforms. However, box office receipts were slightly lower, suggesting reduced spending per trip. The Lunar New Year holiday is an important indicator of consumption in China, and while travel has increased, consumer confidence remains weak due to factors such as declining home prices and decreased car sales. [Extracted from the article]

China's Lunar New Year holiday saw a surge in travel, indicating a potential pickup in consumer spending in the country. Over 61 million rail trips were made during the holiday, marking a 61% increase compared to the previous year. Initial data also showed improvement in road and air trips, and hotel sales on Chinese e-commerce platforms surged over 60%. However, box office receipts were slightly lower, suggesting reduced spending per trip. The Lunar New Year holiday is an important indicator of consumption in China, and the country is expected to release tourism spending data at the end of the holiday period. [Extracted from the article]

President Xi Jinping's frequent use of the phrase "high-quality development" has left investors questioning its meaning and implications for China's growth in 2024. While the concept initially appeared to prioritize sustainable GDP growth, its ambiguity has made it difficult to define. Some officials suggest that it allows policymakers to address long-term issues, such as reducing dependence on coal and promoting green energy. As China's economy faces challenges like a property slump and weak domestic demand, understanding the meaning of this slogan becomes crucial for investors. However, its broad scope and deliberate vagueness make it open to interpretation and flexible for policymakers. [Extracted from the article]

China's latest housing initiative aims to address the issue of vacant properties, which has been a major problem for almost three years. However, analysts believe that the measures announced are too small to effectively end the housing crisis. The support package includes a 300 billion yuan ($42 billion) facility from the People's Bank of China to fund bank loans for state companies tasked with buying unsold housing stock. Economists are concerned about the limited size of the measure relative to the stock of unsold housing and the risk of incomplete implementation. While Chinese state media has reported positive coverage of the program, doubts remain about whether banks will fully utilize the new facility. [Extracted from the article]

China's latest housing initiative aims to address the issue of vacant properties, which has been a major problem for almost three years. However, analysts believe that the measures announced are not sufficient to end the housing crisis. The package includes a 300 billion yuan ($42 billion) facility from the People's Bank of China to fund bank loans for state companies tasked with buying unsold housing stock. Economists are concerned about the limited size of the measure compared to the stock of unsold housing and the risk of incomplete implementation. The real estate sector has become a significant drag on China's economy, affecting sentiment and consumer spending. [Extracted from the article]

China has warned that it will take retaliatory measures against the European Union (EU) if it continues its anti-subsidy investigations into Chinese companies. The EU has launched several probes into Chinese companies in sectors such as railways, solar, security, and electric vehicles. The Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU has stated that European wine and dairy products may be affected. The EU has expressed concerns about Chinese subsidized production, but member states are divided on the issue of tariffs, with some calling for a cautious approach. [Extracted from the article]

China's latest housing initiative, aimed at addressing the issue of vacant properties, is considered insufficient to resolve the ongoing housing crisis, according to analysts. The decline in sales of new homes in China has led to an increase in unsold homes and empty land, discouraging new construction and posing a risk of defaults by developers. The support package includes a 300 billion yuan ($42 billion) facility from the People's Bank of China to fund bank loans for state companies tasked with purchasing unsold housing stock. However, economists express concerns about the limited size of the measure relative to the stock of unsold housing and the potential for incomplete implementation. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union has announced that it will be closing its investigation into bids made by Chinese companies for a solar park in Romania. The companies involved, including LONGi Green Energy Technology Co Ltd., have all indicated that they will be withdrawing from the tender. The investigation was launched last month under the EU's foreign subsidies regulation, which aims to prevent state-funded companies from using their financial power to hinder competition from EU rivals. This is the second time that Chinese companies have withdrawn from a tender following an inquiry under this regulation. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union has announced that it will close its investigation into bids by Chinese firms for a Romanian solar park, as the companies have decided to withdraw from the tender. The investigation was launched last month under the EU's foreign subsidies regulation, which aims to prevent state-funded companies from using their financial power to hinder EU competitors. This is the second time that Chinese companies have withdrawn from a tender after an inquiry was opened under this regulation. Chinese solar firm LONGi confirmed its withdrawal, stating its commitment to helping the EU achieve its climate goals. The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU expressed concerns about the EU's "selective" information disclosure and accused the European Commission of selectively enforcing the regulation against Chinese companies. [Extracted from the article]

China's ruling Communist Party has announced plans to study measures to address the country's housing surplus, indicating increased efforts to support the real estate sector. The party's decision-making body, led by President Xi Jinping, has agreed to explore options such as adjusting interest rates and reserve requirements for banks to reduce borrowing costs. The group's April meeting is closely monitored for indications of economic policy changes, as President Xi has shifted decision-making power from government bodies to party groups. This move has made closed-door meetings like this more significant for investors. [Extracted from the article]

China's overall manufacturing overcapacity has reached its peak, according to a report by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The EIU predicts that trade tensions will continue due to the rising competitiveness of Chinese companies. While certain sectors, such as electronics and consumer goods, are currently experiencing overcapacity, the EIU believes this is temporary and expects a cyclical upturn in global retail sales in 2024. The industries most affected by overcapacity include steel, cement, and construction machinery, while sectors such as electrical machinery, automotive, and pharmaceuticals face milder pressure. However, the EIU anticipates that capacity utilization and profitability will remain below pre-pandemic levels throughout 2024. The report also highlights the potential for protectionist measures against China in sectors like electric vehicles, driven by concerns over overcapacity and the competitiveness of Chinese products. [Extracted from the article]

Chinese private developers are facing a funding gap of 4 trillion yuan ($553 billion) to complete pre-sold homes, according to a research report by Goldman Sachs. The credit support from banks is insufficient to secure home completions, and the impact of property easing measures from last year is fading in the new homes market. The government needs to improve developer funding conditions and bring housing demand to normal levels, as well as mitigate a contraction in real estate construction. China is still dealing with an oversupply of housing, particularly in smaller cities, and plans to increase the share of public housing to at least 30% of the nation's total housing stock. [Extracted from the article]

Wages for new hires in China have increased for the first time in three quarters, indicating a potential improvement in the labor market. The average monthly salary offered to new recruits in 38 major Chinese cities rose by 2.2% compared to the previous year. A survey of Shanghai residents also found that employment conditions improved in the first quarter of the year. While these developments may boost consumer spending, the surveys suggest that conditions are still weaker than in previous years. China's economic data this year has been mixed, with strong industrial output and consumer spending but weak inflation and a struggling housing market. Official data on wages, employment, and GDP growth for the first quarter will be released next week. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union (EU) has launched a preliminary investigation into Chinese involvement in wind parks in several EU countries, including Spain, Greece, France, Romania, and Bulgaria. The EU aims to transform the bloc into a green economy but is concerned about Chinese clean-tech investments potentially squeezing out local suppliers. The EU has the power to issue fines, suspend tenders, or block state takeovers if evidence of unfair subsidies by the Chinese state is found. China has expressed concern about the EU's actions, while the EU wants to reduce dependence on clean technology imports and boost its wind energy industry. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has found that the global economy is becoming divided between US- and China-centered blocs, although the level of fragmentation is less than during the Cold War. Trade flows between the two blocs have declined by about 12% more than trade within the same bloc since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Foreign direct investment projects have also fallen by around 20% more between blocs than within blocs. However, the decline in trade and investment is much smaller than during the Cold War, and many non-aligned economies are benefiting from their role as "connector" economies between the two blocs. The IMF warns that if geopolitical tensions persist and trade restrictive policies intensify, the level of fragmentation could worsen considerably. [Extracted from the article]

China's commerce minister, Wang Wentao, has rejected the European Union's probe into subsidies for Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs). He stated that accusations of domestic overcapacity and government aid propelling Chinese EVs into Europe are "groundless." Wang attributed the rapid growth of Chinese EV companies to continuous technological innovation, advanced local supply chains, and intense competition. He criticized the EU's de-risking drive, stating that it undermines the bloc's environmental ambitions. The EU is considering imposing additional tariffs on Chinese EV imports due to concerns about subsidies distorting the domestic market. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union has launched investigations into Chinese firms bidding for a Romanian solar park, as part of a new law aimed at preventing state-funded companies from using their financial power to outcompete EU rivals. The probes are focused on ENEVO Group, including LONGi Solar Technologie GmbH, and state-owned Shanghai Electric UK Co. Ltd. and Shanghai Electric Hong Kong International Engineering Co. Ltd. The EU is concerned about Chinese companies undercutting its clean tech industries, and is considering imposing additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. The investigations are the second under the EU's foreign subsidies regulation, and the China Chamber of Commerce to the EU has expressed concerns about potential discrimination against Chinese enterprises. [Extracted from the article]

China's alleged overcapacity in industries such as solar panels, electric vehicles (EVs), and batteries is a concern for the US and Europe, leading to protectionist measures. However, an analysis of the data suggests that much of China's overcapacity is in low-tech goods and industries unrelated to Western competition. In the EV industry, Chinese companies are more efficient rather than burdened with excess capacity. China's capacity utilization rates have improved in recent quarters, and its automobile exports have become more expensive, indicating rising attractiveness due to factors other than price cuts. While there is overcapacity in sectors like solar and batteries, the issue is not as significant in the EV industry. China's carmakers are more competitive due to factors such as technology, local supply chains, and lower costs. However, there is an oversupply of batteries and solar panels, which may make it harder for countries to justify onshoring production. Future demand growth in green goods may exceed expectations, but market forces are already reducing the capacity pipeline, leading to bankruptcies in the solar and battery sectors. [Extracted from the article]

China's exports of electric vehicles (EVs) to European Union (EU) countries decreased by nearly 20% in the first two months of the year, according to Chinese customs data. This decline comes amid an investigation by the EU into unfair subsidies in the industry. The EU is considering imposing additional tariffs on Chinese EVs, citing evidence of illegal financial support from the Chinese government. If tariffs are imposed, it could impact the Chinese EV market and potentially lead to similar measures in other countries. The decline in exports raises questions about the influence of the EU's investigation on import-export dynamics. [Extracted from the article]

A Chinese company, CRRC Qingdao Sifang Locomotive Co. Ltd., has pulled out of a ¿610 million Bulgarian railway tender after the European Union (EU) opened a probe into the deal. The EU regulators hailed the withdrawal as a boost to economic security. The investigation was conducted under the Foreign Subsidies Regulation, which allows the EU to vet subsidies that may distort European markets. The China Chamber of Commerce to the European Union expressed concerns that the regulation is being used to deter foreign companies. [Extracted from the article]