Cass Freight Index Reports October Decline Amid Weak Demand Strikes

Cass Freight Index Reports October Decline Amid Weak Demand Strikes

The Cass Freight Index report reveals a 9.5% year-over-year decrease in freight volume and a 23.3% year-over-year drop in expenditures for October. Weak demand, compounded by the United Auto Workers strike, contributed to these record lows. Analysts anticipate continued downward pressure on freight volume and rates in the short term. However, the impact of the strike may create the potential for a future rebound in freight activity as production resumes and backlogs are addressed.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Slows on Recession Worries Recovery Possible

Freight Market Slows on Recession Worries Recovery Possible

Bloomberg analyst Lee Klaskow noted in a webinar that the risk of a US recession is high, and the freight market has already entered a recession. Despite the challenges, a turnaround is expected in the second half of the year as capacity exits the market, seasonal demand rebounds, and inventory levels improve. Large, well-capitalized companies with diversified operations are likely to consolidate their positions during this market correction.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Expands Steadily in September

US Services Sector Expands Steadily in September

The September ISM Non-Manufacturing report shows the NMI index slightly decreased to 58.6, but remains well above the expansion threshold, indicating 56 consecutive months of growth in the non-manufacturing sector. The PMI index is above the 12-month average, suggesting a long-term growth trend. Analysis should focus on sub-indexes such as new orders, employment, and prices, as well as geopolitical factors like interest rates and inflation. A cautiously optimistic outlook is maintained for the future development of the non-manufacturing sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Retail Growth Stalls Amid Structural Challenges

US Retail Growth Stalls Amid Structural Challenges

U.S. retail sales edged up slightly in June, but the recovery remains weak, hampered by high oil prices, a sluggish housing market, and stagnant job growth. Experts advise retail businesses to refine operations, embrace change, and strengthen supply chain management. Paying close attention to macroeconomic trends is also crucial for navigating these challenges.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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Global Air Cargo Growth Slows Amid Trade Tensions

Global Air Cargo Growth Slows Amid Trade Tensions

IATA data reveals sluggish growth in the global air cargo market, impacted by weak global trade and rising protectionism. Asia-Pacific and the Middle East demonstrate relatively better performance, while Europe, the Americas, and Africa face declines. The industry is urging the dismantling of trade barriers and embracing digital transformation to address these challenges.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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US Supply Chain Council Boosts Resilience Efforts

US Supply Chain Council Boosts Resilience Efforts

The Supply Chain Council (SCC), a bipartisan organization, aims to strengthen U.S. supply chains by uniting businesses and labor. Its mission is to protect jobs, invest in infrastructure, and address global instability. Emphasizing collaboration and advocacy, the Council promotes policies at all levels to enhance supply chain resilience and sustainability, tackling current global supply chain challenges. The SCC seeks to foster a robust and secure supply chain ecosystem for the United States.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Rebounds in Late 2025 ISM

US Service Sector Rebounds in Late 2025 ISM

The US service sector showed robust growth at the end of 2025, with the PMI reaching 54.4, a new high for the year. Significant divergence exists across industries, and trade policies and tariffs continue to impact businesses. A slowdown in new order growth may indicate risks, but overall market confidence is gradually recovering. Looking ahead to 2026, the outlook for service sector growth is cautiously optimistic, with attention needed on changes in demand structure.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Expands Despite Inflation Inventory Challenges

US Manufacturing Expands Despite Inflation Inventory Challenges

The ISM's April manufacturing report shows the PMI above 50 for the second consecutive month, but highlights concerns like inventory shortages and soaring prices. While new orders and production continue to grow, employment continues to contract. Expert opinions diverge, suggesting a challenging path to manufacturing recovery. Key issues to watch include inventory levels, rising costs, and the ongoing employment situation. The report paints a mixed picture, indicating potential growth hampered by supply chain constraints and labor market difficulties.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Nears Recovery Despite Contraction

US Manufacturing Nears Recovery Despite Contraction

The US Manufacturing PMI for February remained below 50, indicating contraction, but showed improvement compared to the previous month. New orders were flat, while the production index increased, and the rate of job contraction slowed. Most companies reported positive sentiment, and low inventory levels suggest potential restocking demand. Experts believe that the manufacturing sector may be poised for a recovery.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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