01 Feb 2024

Anticipated Shifts in 2024 US Container Import Patterns Aligning with Key Sourcing

The slight shifts in the percentage of containerized imports from China to the United States align with three major trends acknowledged by both the business and geopolitical communities: China Plus One, incremental gains in friendshoring by volume, and an increased reliance on Vietnam and India. To mitigate their dependence on China, US retailers and other […]

Read More
15 Jan 2024

West Coast Ports Prepare for Import Wave Amid Global Turmoil

West Coast ports are bracing for a tidal wave of incoming goods as supply chain woes and international tension collide. This perfect storm stems from several factors: Inventory restocking: Retailers are replenishing shelves after periods of low stock, driving up import demand. Homecoming cargo: Goods that shifted to other ports during last year’s labor talks are returning to […]

Read More
08 Jan 2024

Trade policy tango continues! USTR extends Section 301

  On December 26, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) made an important announcement regarding the extension of active Section 301 China product exclusions. Originally slated to conclude on December 31, 2023, the 429 exclusions are now set to endure until May 31, 2024, as outlined in a comprehensive report by the […]

Read More
05 Jan 2024

US Mortgage Rates Fall for Ninth Straight Week, Offering Relief in Hot Market

Good news for homebuyers! Mortgage rates have dropped for the ninth consecutive week, providing a glimmer of hope in a housing market that has been tough on wallets since the 1980s. After dipping below 7% for the first time since August in early December, rates continued their downward slide. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage now […]

Read More
29 Dec 2023

Trump’s Trade Storm Clouds: Prepare for More Friction if He Returns

Donald Trump’s first term as president was a seismic shift in U.S. trade policy. He launched a tariff war with China, pulled out of major trade agreements, and earned the nickname “Tariff Man.” Now, if he wins re-election, expect the ground to tremble again. Trump’s campaign documents and interviews hint at a second term filled […]

Read More
21 Dec 2023

Outlook 2024 key points from the Global Investment Strategists at J. P. Morgan

Good news! The recession you feared in 2023 may not materialize. While the U.S. economy could slow next year, our experts predict it will avoid a recession. This offers breathing room for your finances and investment decisions. However, a shifting financial landscape demands attention. The key development? Rising bond yields. This impacts markets and your […]

Read More
20 Dec 2023

Canals in Chaos: Suez Attacks and Panama Drought Threaten Global Trade

  Double Trouble: Global supply chains are bracing for a potential “milder version” of the pandemic’s crisis due to disruptions at both the Suez and Panama Canals. Attacks by Houthi militants in the Red Sea have forced shipping companies to reroute vessels, adding 7-10 days to voyages and potentially doubling ocean freight prices. Meanwhile, drought-induced […]

Read More
18 Dec 2023

Holiday Cheer Boosts U.S. Imports: Retailers Gear Up for Record Season

  Despite mixed economic signals, a wave of optimism is cresting through U.S. retail as stronger-than-expected holiday sales prompt stores to ramp up imports for early 2024. This bullish sentiment has revised import forecasts upwards, painting a picture of a potentially record-breaking festive season. The Global Port Tracker (GPT) is predicting a 11.5% y/y surge […]

Read More
01 Dec 2023

America’s Tech Leadership at Risk: A Call for Renewed Commitment

America’s once-unquestioned dominance in technological innovation is facing a serious challenge. The recent withdrawal of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) from key digital trade proposals at the World Trade Organization raises alarming questions about our commitment to maintaining this leadership position. This decision is not just a missed economic opportunity; it’s a strategic blunder with […]

Read More