Baidu AI Tools Aim to Boost Smes During Economic Slowdown

Baidu AI Tools Aim to Boost Smes During Economic Slowdown

Facing a consumption market downturn, SMEs are struggling. Baidu Ai Purchasing's strategic cooperation with Yiwu Commodity City, focusing on the consumer goods market, may offer new growth opportunities for SMEs. SMEs should seize this opportunity and actively embrace digital transformation. Simultaneously, focusing on brand building and user experience is crucial for SMEs to stand out in the competitive market. This collaboration aims to provide SMEs with broader market access and enhanced digital capabilities, ultimately contributing to their sustainable development and resilience in a challenging economic climate.

Lowes Targets Key Home Improvement Trends for 2026 Growth

Lowes Targets Key Home Improvement Trends for 2026 Growth

High interest rates are fueling a surge in US home renovation demand, presenting new opportunities for Lowe's. Reports predict record-high US home improvement spending by 2026. The prevalence of DIY culture empowers consumers, increasing their decision-making power. Promising categories for Lowe's Marketplace include designer building materials, urban gardening supplies, personalized decor, stylish furniture, and home improvement accessories. Chinese sellers must meet specific requirements to join the platform. This presents a significant opportunity for cross-border e-commerce in the home improvement sector.

Middle East Travel Trends Drive Noons Topselling Bags

Middle East Travel Trends Drive Noons Topselling Bags

The best-selling bag list on the Middle Eastern e-commerce platform NOON reveals new trends in efficient travel. Functional backpacks, large-capacity outdoor bags, front-opening suitcases, and accessible luxury handbags cater to consumers' needs for business commuting, outdoor travel, convenient travel, and gift-giving. Scene segmentation, function integration, and value identity are the three major trends in the current bag market. These trends highlight the growing demand for bags that are not only practical but also reflect personal style and cater to specific activities.

Streaming Giants Grapple With Valuation Woes As Hits Fade

Streaming Giants Grapple With Valuation Woes As Hits Fade

This article analyzes the stock price surge of Mango Excellent Media driven by the hit show 'Sisters Who Make Waves,' arguing that a single blockbuster is insufficient to sustain long-term platform value. It compares the valuation differences of video platforms in the Chinese and American capital markets. The article also explores three models for long-form video platforms (content, platform, and ecosystem) and their future development trends, suggesting that cross-industry competition and media convergence will become the new normal in the industry.

US Regulators Extend Review of Rail Industry Switching Proposal

US Regulators Extend Review of Rail Industry Switching Proposal

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the deadline for comments on “Reciprocal Switching,” aiming to provide rail freight customers with more options, break industry monopolies, and improve service quality. The proposed rule focuses on three performance standards: service reliability, service consistency, and local service inadequacy. It quantifies service levels to protect shipper rights and potentially reshape the U.S. rail industry landscape. The new regulations are intended to ensure fair access and promote competition within the rail network, ultimately benefiting shippers and improving overall rail service.

US Rail Freight Declines As Intermodal Gains Offset Losses

US Rail Freight Declines As Intermodal Gains Offset Losses

The US rail freight market is showing signs of divergence. Carload volume is down year-over-year, dragged down by commodities like coal and grain. However, intermodal transportation is growing, becoming a new growth driver. Full-year cumulative data presents a mixed picture, highlighting the impact of economic conditions, energy transition, and global trade. Moving forward, rail freight needs to embrace intermodal transportation, diversified business models, technological innovation, and strengthened partnerships to adapt to market changes. This is crucial for sustained success in a dynamic logistics landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Up Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Up Intermodal Down

U.S. rail freight volume increased by 3.5% in May, driven by metallic ores. Intermodal transportation declined by 11.6%, leading to an overall freight volume decrease of 4.1%. The railway industry faces transformation challenges. The growth in metallic ores suggests potential strength in related industries, while the decline in intermodal transportation highlights shifts in shipping preferences or economic slowdown in certain sectors. The overall decrease in freight volume underscores the need for the railway industry to adapt to evolving market demands and explore new revenue streams.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volume Drops Prompting Business Adjustments

US Rail Freight Volume Drops Prompting Business Adjustments

Recent data indicates a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes, though performance varies across sectors. Automotive and parts, and nonmetallic minerals, experienced growth. The North American market is generally weak, and cross-border trade faces challenges. Companies should diversify transportation modes, optimize supply chain management, monitor policy changes, and actively embrace technological innovation to identify new growth opportunities. The key is to adapt to the changing landscape and find niche areas for expansion amidst the overall downturn in rail freight volume.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Messe Mnchen Expands to US Partners with MODEX for Logistics Growth

Messe Mnchen Expands to US Partners with MODEX for Logistics Growth

Messe München brings Transportation & Logistics America's (TLA) logistics exhibition to the US, co-located with MODEX, aiming to integrate global logistics expertise with North American market demands and drive transformation in the North American logistics industry. Through strategic planning, strong alliances, and exhibition highlights, TLA will inject new vitality into the North American logistics market, promote innovative cooperation, and contribute to the industry's sustainable development. The event promises to be a key platform for networking and showcasing the latest advancements in logistics and supply chain management.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Freight Forwarders Guide to Handling Equipment Receipt Expirations

Freight Forwarders Guide to Handling Equipment Receipt Expirations

This article is designed for novice freight forwarders, providing a detailed explanation of the concept and calculation methods of the Equipment Interchange Receipt (Release Order) validity period. It offers practical advice to help freight forwarders avoid errors caused by expired release orders and improve work efficiency. The guide covers key aspects of managing release orders effectively, ensuring smooth equipment handover and preventing potential delays or complications in the shipping process. It aims to empower new freight forwarders with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle release orders with confidence and competence.