Here are the top stories shaping the world of commerce today. For deeper analysis, data, and strategic insights, upgrade to our Premium Digest.

Today's news digest reveals a landscape of cautious optimism and significant cross-currents. In the supply chain sector, ocean freight rates are declining amid muted demand, while the trucking industry faces a sharp contraction in employment, signaling a broader freight market slowdown. In retail, consumer sentiment is on the rise, but persistent concerns about inflation and job security temper the outlook. Retailers are innovating with loyalty programs and new service models, though major players like Ford are reporting significant losses. In international trade, the Trump administration's protectionist policies are facing unprecedented challenges from Congress, with a symbolic vote to overturn tariffs on Canada and private discussions about a potential US withdrawal from the USMCA. Geopolitical tensions are also rising in the Arctic as China advances its "Polar Silk Road" strategy. These developments point to a period of significant uncertainty and transition across global supply chains, retail markets, and international trade relations.

•        Ocean Freight Rates Decline Post-Lunar New Year

•        GXO Logistics Reports Stable Demand, Conservative 2026 Outlook

•        Truck Transportation Jobs Decline Sharply in Annual Revision

•        Consumer Sentiment Improves Despite Persistent Concerns

•        Sephora's Gamification Strategy Achieves 30% Adoption

•        Major Retailers Report Mixed Q4 Results

•        Retail Innovation and Strategic Shifts

•        US House Votes to Overturn Trump's Canada Tariffs

•        Trump Privately Weighs Exiting USMCA Trade Pact

•        China Advances Polar Silk Road Arctic Strategy

•        UK Trade Deficit Reaches Record High

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