The university's preliminary figure for October was 75.4, down from September's final reading of 76.9.

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This is a preliminary figure, but it contrasts sharply with third quarter growth of 3.1%.

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The final result undershot the preliminary figure of 49.6, released on May 23, which precipitated a sharp selloff across Asia back then.

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That preliminary figure is based on shares comprising around 81 per cent of the company and constitutes a majority yes vote on executive pay.

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Preliminary press reports indicate that the figure skating competition won a hefty 42 share last night, trouncing other programming.

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