Canada's December 2025 CPI exceeded expectations, rising 2.4% year-over-year, fueling market speculation about potential interest rate hikes. Rising food and restaurant prices were the primary drivers. The Bank of Canada faces the challenge of balancing inflation and economic growth. It needs to closely monitor the global economic situation and flexibly adjust its monetary policy to address the 'last mile' of the inflation challenge.
Bank of America's Q2 Freight Payment Index indicates a continued slump in the US freight market. Both shipment volume and expenditures decreased year-over-year, although the decline narrowed. Sequential growth in some regions suggests a potential market bottom. Consumer spending patterns, inflation, interest rates, and energy prices will continue to influence the freight market. Logistics companies should closely monitor market dynamics and adapt accordingly.
UPS reported strong first-quarter results, with revenue up 27% year-over-year to $22.9 billion. Adjusted earnings per share surged 141% to $2.77, significantly exceeding Wall Street expectations. Consolidated operating profit soared 158% to $2.8 billion, demonstrating the company's robust profitability and operational efficiency, providing positive news for investors. The impressive performance highlights UPS's ability to capitalize on current market conditions and deliver substantial value.
BYD, leveraging its strength in new energy vehicles, achieved sales of 41,570 units in 2023, becoming the top-selling Chinese brand in the Thai market. This represents a 53.8% year-over-year increase and places them fourth in the Thai light vehicle market. This accomplishment signifies a breakthrough for Chinese new energy vehicles in Thailand and may intensify competition within the Thai automotive market.
The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reports a 3.7% year-over-year decrease in U.S. intermodal volume for March. Trailer volume experienced the most significant drop at 12.1%. Domestic and international container volumes also saw declines. These figures indicate that the intermodal market is facing multiple pressures, and its future trajectory remains uncertain. The downturn reflects broader economic concerns and potential shifts in freight demand.
August retail sales showed both month-over-month and year-over-year growth, indicating a steady economic recovery. However, challenges such as e-commerce disruption, last-mile delivery issues, inventory management, supply chain visibility, and sustainability are becoming increasingly prominent. Businesses need to embrace digital transformation, optimize supply chain networks, strengthen collaboration, enhance resilience, and cultivate talent to navigate these changes and maintain a competitive edge.
North American Class 8 truck orders in July decreased year-over-year and month-over-month, but remained within seasonal expectations. This decline represents a rational correction from previously strong demand and is not indicative of a market downturn. Factors such as economic conditions, freight volumes, fuel prices, interest rates, government regulations, and technological innovation collectively influence the market. The future presents both opportunities and challenges.
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.
Panjiva reports that U.S. container imports increased by 6.9% year-over-year in February, with daily volumes reaching a new high, potentially indicating easing supply chain pressures. Energy and consumer goods imports saw significant growth, while raw materials and IT products declined. Inflation and shifting consumer preferences may lead to future demand declines. Maersk's acquisition of Pilot Freight aims to expand its logistics services.
ACT Research reports that Class 8 trailer orders increased by 31% month-over-month and 22% year-over-year in September, with a significant increase in shipments. The order growth is influenced by seasonal factors and expectations of rising prices. Trucking companies should refine operations, optimize the value chain, and pay attention to the trends of intelligence, green development, and intensification to seize opportunities and meet challenges.
