Here are the top stories shaping the world of commerce today. For deeper analysis, data, and strategic insights, upgrade to our Premium Digest.
Supply Chain & Logistics
Key Developments
Winter Storm Tightens Trucking Capacity, Major Deals Reshape Industry
Severe weather from Winter Storm Fern is causing significant disruptions in U.S. trucking, leading to higher rates. In major industry moves, Werner Enterprises has acquired FirstFleet for $245 million, becoming a top-5 dedicated carrier. The tech side of logistics is also heating up, with autonomous trucking start-up Waabi raising $750 million and AI logistics firm Datatruck securing $12 million in funding. Meanwhile, UPS is adjusting its network and partnership with Amazon, and BNSF is investing $3.6 billion in infrastructure.
Retail Industry
Key Developments
Consumer Confidence Plummets, Retailers Explore New Tech
U.S. consumer confidence has fallen to a 12-year low, and retail sales growth is projected to slow in 2026. Despite this, many retailers are looking to the future, with a growing number adopting cryptocurrency payments. In corporate news, Starbucks has reported mixed results, UPS is set to cut 30,000 jobs as its Amazon partnership winds down, and McDonald's is bringing back a nostalgic toy to drive sales.
International Trade
Key Developments
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is in China for a historic four-day visit, the first by a British leader in eight years, signalling a potential reset in relations. The visit includes a summit with President Xi Jinping and aims to deepen economic ties. This diplomatic effort comes as global trade tensions remain high, with the US threatening tariffs on allies who engage with China. In other news, the EU and India have sealed a major trade pact, while gold prices have surged.
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