Retail Sales Rebound Signals Growth in New Year

Retail Sales Rebound Signals Growth in New Year

The US retail sector experienced growth at the beginning of the year, indicating a gradual recovery in the consumer market. Key drivers include a stable job market, lower energy prices, and adjustments in savings rates. Experts predict steady retail growth in 2016. However, retailers need to pay attention to evolving consumer demands, digital transformation, and market competition. By seizing opportunities and addressing these challenges, retailers can usher in a new era of prosperity for the industry.

US Rail Freight Rebounds on Auto Intermodal Growth

US Rail Freight Rebounds on Auto Intermodal Growth

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a recovery in total U.S. rail freight traffic for the week ending October 26th. Automobiles & parts and intermodal transportation showed strong performance, while coal shipments remained weak. In the first 43 weeks of 2024, intermodal volume increased by 8.9%, while traditional carload categories faced downward pressure. The rail freight market is undergoing structural adjustments, highlighting the shift in demand and the increasing importance of intermodal solutions.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Market Slows Amid Winter Demand Drop Bank Index

US Freight Market Slows Amid Winter Demand Drop Bank Index

The U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index for Q2 indicates a continued decline in U.S. freight volumes and spending, although the rate of decrease has slowed. The report highlights varying regional market performances and analyzes key factors impacting the freight market, such as the shift in consumer spending towards services and high operating costs. Experts suggest the market may be nearing its bottom, but the path to recovery remains challenging. The index offers insights into the current state of the freight industry and potential future developments.

US Container Imports Slow in August Amid Demand Concerns

US Container Imports Slow in August Amid Demand Concerns

S&P Global data indicates that U.S. container imports grew by 10.8% year-over-year in August, but the growth rate slowed, decreasing by 2.6% compared to July. Imports of consumer goods and capital goods showed divergent trends. Experts believe that demand persists, but growth momentum is weakening. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, flexibly adjust inventory, diversify supply chains, strengthen risk management, and improve operational efficiency.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises As Traditional Cargo Falls

US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises As Traditional Cargo Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail traffic showed a mixed picture for the week ending February 15th. Traditional carload traffic decreased by 4.8% year-over-year, dragged down by coal, metals, and chemicals. Intermodal traffic, however, increased by 7.0% year-over-year, although slightly lower than the previous two weeks. Cumulative data for the first eight weeks shows a 0.7% decrease in carload traffic and a 9.3% increase in intermodal traffic. The reshaping of global supply chains and the growth of e-commerce are key drivers of intermodal growth.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Cass Freight Index Reveals Key Trends in Cargo Market

Cass Freight Index Reveals Key Trends in Cargo Market

The latest Cass Freight Index reveals a mixed picture for the freight market in November: while shipment volumes slightly decreased, expenditures continued to rise. Experts believe the market is generally stable, but declining imports suggest a potential softening of short-term trends. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize operational efficiency, embrace digital transformation, and strengthen risk management to seize opportunities in a complex and volatile market environment. Overall, the index highlights the need for agility and strategic planning in navigating the current logistics landscape.

US Rail Freight Carloads Up Intermodal Traffic Down

US Rail Freight Carloads Up Intermodal Traffic Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 27th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.4% year-over-year, while intermodal containers and trailers decreased by 0.3%. In the first 34 weeks of 2022, carload traffic rose by 0.1% year-over-year, but intermodal traffic fell by 5.3%. These figures highlight the complexity of the U.S. economy. Investors should analyze the data rationally and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Steady Despite Mixed Signals AAR

US Rail Freight Growth Steady Despite Mixed Signals AAR

The latest report from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both decreased year-over-year for the week ending September 13th. However, rail freight maintains a steady long-term growth trend. While shipments of chemicals, automobiles, and parts increased, traditional freight categories like coal face challenges. Digital transformation, sustainability, and intermodal transportation are expected to be key trends for future development. The report suggests a mixed picture, reflecting both short-term fluctuations and long-term strategic shifts in the rail freight industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Growth Slows in March ISM Report

US Service Sector Growth Slows in March ISM Report

The March ISM Non-Manufacturing Report indicates a slower but still expanding non-manufacturing sector in the US. Most industries experienced growth, while the retail sector contracted. The employment market showed strong performance, and inflation pressures remained manageable. Labor shortages and trade war impacts are easing, contributing to a positive long-term outlook. However, potential risks warrant continued monitoring. The report suggests a resilient but moderating expansion in the non-manufacturing sector, with underlying strengths in employment and controlled inflation, despite some sectoral weaknesses.

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Growth Slows but Remains Resilient in January

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Growth Slows but Remains Resilient in January

The ISM's January report indicates a slight decrease in non-manufacturing activity to 56.7, marking the 108th consecutive month of growth. Business activity and new orders indices declined, while the employment index rose, and the prices index continued to increase. Performance varied across industries, with the government shutdown introducing uncertainty. Experts anticipate continued growth, albeit at a slower pace. Businesses should closely monitor macroeconomic conditions, policy environment, and changes in market demand.