European shares extend sell-off on Friday

European stocks slumped on Friday, extending Thursday's rout, as U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping reciprocal tariffs raised fears of a global trade war and economic recession.

The FTSE 100 Index, which tracks the 100 largest UK companies, fell 4.95 percent to closed at 8,054.98, marking its worst daily drop since March 2020.

The plummet came amid fears about the economic impact of newly announced U.S. tariff increases. Banks were the hardest hit while utility companies were among the few gainers.

The last major daily drop occurred on the eve of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

Other stocks in the European market also closed lower on the day.

Compared with Thursday, the Paris CAC 40 closed at 7274.95 points, down 324.03 points, or 4.26 percent, and Germany' DAX Index closed at 20,641.72 points, down 1,075.67 points, or 4.95 percent, while the pan-European Stoxx 600 index closed at 496.33 points, down 5.12 percent.

European shares extend sell-off on Friday

European shares extend sell-off on Friday

European shares extend sell-off on Friday

British stock market records worst daily drop since 2020

Holiday celebrations with strong festive vibes in southwest China's Yunnan Province are attracting crowds of visitors thanks to the rich local traditions, cuisine, and culture.

Mojiang County is home to the Hani ethnic group. On Saturday, the second day of the May Day holiday, the Hani people were celebrating one of their most vibrant traditions, the Long-Street Banquet.

There was a grand open-air feast -- a hallmark of Hani culture. During major festivals, local families would line the streets with long rows of tables, and gather together to share food and music in celebration. This year, more than 100 tables have been set up, welcoming both residents and visitors to join in. And among the many dishes on offer, purple rice stands out as a local favorite, prized not only for its rich flavor but also for its deep cultural significance.

But this banquet is just one part of the county's 20th International Twins Festival. Located along the Tropic of Cancer, Mojiang is widely known as China's "Town of Twins", with a twin birth rate significantly higher than the global average.

This year, more than 1,000 pairs of twins have gathered here, including participants from nearly 20 countries. Earlier today, they took part in a vibrant parade through the town, greeting residents and visitors along the route. It's a rare sight, and one that truly brings the festival to life.

There is no shortage of experiences for visitors. Visitors can join traditional circle dances around a bonfire, while live performances by local singers add even more energy to the festive atmosphere. Another well-known tradition sees people exchange blessings by smearing an edible black powder on each other's faces, symbolizing good luck.

Unique traditions, culture in Yunnan boost holiday economy