19 Jan 2024

Port of Long Beach Revs Up for “Year of Rail” in 2024: Modernization, Sustainability in Focus

Long Beach, CA: The Port of Long Beach is chugging into the “Year of Rail” in 2024, with a focus on modernizing facilities, boosting air quality, and ultimately becoming the world’s first zero-emissions seaport. CEO Mario Cordero laid out the ambitious plan in his State of the Port Address, highlighting the Pier B On-Dock Rail […]

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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 […]

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09 Jan 2024

Red Sea on Fire: Houthi Attacks Threaten Global Shipping

The Red Sea, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, faces unprecedented risks as Houthi rebels launch escalating attacks on commercial vessels. Houthi Motives and the Murky Web of Attacks: The Houthis, backed by Iran, claim their strikes target vessels with Israeli ties. However, experts highlight the indiscriminate nature of attacks, raising concerns about wider […]

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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 RV […]

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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 […]

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04 Jan 2024

Air Cargo: Navigating Uncertainty with a Glimmer of Opportunity

While the 2024 crystal ball remains cloudy, a glimmer of hope shines for the air cargo industry. Geopolitical turmoil and unpredictable supply chains could create a surge in demand for its reliable services. December saw promising signs: Demand surged 9% year-over-year, partly driven by a weak 2022 comparison. Spot rates climbed to their highest in nine […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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 restrictions […]

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