US Services Sector Grows Steadily in September

US Services Sector Grows Steadily in September

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) reported a Non-Manufacturing Index (NMI) of 58.6 for September. While slightly lower than August, the index remains well above 50, indicating continued expansion in the non-manufacturing sector. This figure is also above the average for the past 12 months, reflecting the resilience of the U.S. economy. The report analyzes sub-indexes such as business activity, new orders, and employment, and highlights the challenges and opportunities facing businesses.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Nonmanufacturing Sector Grows Steadily in September

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Grows Steadily in September

The US ISM Non-Manufacturing Index (NMI) registered 58.6 in September, according to the Institute for Supply Management. While slightly below August's figure, it remains above the 50 threshold, indicating continued expansion in the non-manufacturing sector. The index is also above the average of the past 12 months, suggesting robust overall performance. Non-manufacturing is crucial to the US economy, and its healthy growth is vital for overall prosperity.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Regulators Block Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

US Regulators Block Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has deemed the merger application of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern incomplete, requesting supplementary information such as market share projections. Competitors BNSF and CN have also called for more transparent disclosures. The STB's decision is not a rejection of the merger, but rather a requirement for the two companies to amend their application to meet regulatory standards. The ultimate fate of the merger remains to be seen, pending revisions and further review by the STB.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Declines Amid Economic Slowdown

For the week ending September 20th, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic experienced a year-over-year decrease. Grain and metallic ores shipments increased, while coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals declined. Year-to-date, both freight and intermodal volumes remain positive. Recommendations include increased infrastructure investment, promotion of technological innovation, optimization of transportation structure, strengthened industry collaboration, and improved regulatory policies to bolster future growth and efficiency.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Sparks Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Decline Sparks Economic Worries

U.S. rail freight volume and intermodal traffic have declined year-over-year, raising economic concerns. A significant drop in coal shipments is putting pressure on intermodal transportation. It is crucial to monitor these changes in rail freight, address the challenges they present, and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The decline serves as a potential leading indicator of broader economic trends, warranting close observation and strategic planning within the transportation and logistics sectors.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Traffic Declines in Midseptember

US Rail Freight Traffic Declines in Midseptember

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 0.5% and intermodal volume declined by 2.6% for the week ending September 13. Despite recent weakness, year-to-date rail freight and intermodal traffic are still up 2.3% and 3.8%, respectively. The report highlights growth in sectors like chemicals and automobiles, alongside declines in coal and agricultural products, reflecting structural shifts within the U.S. economy.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Slowdown

Recent year-over-year declines in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes have raised concerns about a potential economic slowdown. While year-to-date figures remain positive, performance varies across different market segments, reflecting the diverse challenges and opportunities facing various industries. Investors should closely monitor these data and conduct in-depth analysis of the underlying economic factors to better understand market trends. The decline warrants attention as a potential leading indicator of broader economic conditions.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Industrial Real Estate Defies Demand Shifts

US Industrial Real Estate Defies Demand Shifts

A CBRE report indicates that the US industrial real estate vacancy rate remained stable at 6.6% in Q3, with robust leasing demand, but fewer new construction starts. E-commerce and 3PL are key drivers, with companies outsourcing logistics to enhance flexibility and focus on core operations. Completions continue to outpace absorption, posing a potential oversupply risk. The future of industrial real estate will increasingly emphasize efficiency, flexibility, and customization. The strong leasing demand is driven by companies seeking to optimize their supply chains and meet the growing demands of online retail.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Industrial Real Estate Defies Ecommerce Slowdown

US Industrial Real Estate Defies Ecommerce Slowdown

CBRE's Q1 data reveals a resilient US industrial real estate market, despite adjustments. New supply reached a record high, and vacancy rates slightly increased. However, rents continued to rise. While e-commerce growth slowed and financing became more challenging, demand is normalizing. Overall, the industrial real estate sector demonstrates continued strength. Although facing headwinds, the long-term outlook for industrial real estate remains positive, suggesting continued growth potential.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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