AFS Cowen Launch Predictive Freight Index for Market Trends

AFS Cowen Launch Predictive Freight Index for Market Trends

Cowen and AFS have jointly launched a forward-looking freight index. Leveraging AI and ML technologies, it forecasts trends in LTL, TL, and parcel freight rates. This provides decision support for investors, shippers, carriers, and logistics service providers, helping businesses optimize strategies, reduce costs, and improve profitability. The index allows stakeholders to gain a competitive edge and capitalize on opportunities in the rapidly changing market. It offers valuable insights for informed decision-making and proactive planning in the logistics industry.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Rebounds As TD Cowen Index Signals Rate Hikes

Freight Market Rebounds As TD Cowen Index Signals Rate Hikes

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index reveals pockets of optimism amidst challenges of soft demand and excess capacity. Truckload spot rates are increasing, and parcel pricing strategies are proving effective. However, LTL pricing discipline may be weakening. The index anticipates varying degrees of rate increases across different transportation modes in Q1 2025. While headwinds persist, certain segments demonstrate resilience and potential for growth, suggesting a complex and evolving freight market landscape. Monitoring these trends is crucial for informed decision-making.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shipping Industry Balances Capacity Contracts and Sustainability

Shipping Industry Balances Capacity Contracts and Sustainability

Breakthrough's report forecasts ample freight capacity in the coming year, prompting companies to prioritize contract stability. Despite strong interest in emissions reduction, electric vehicle adoption faces hurdles. Freight rates are likely to remain elevated, with fuel price volatility a primary concern. Businesses need to optimize efficiency and enhance collaboration to navigate market fluctuations. While sustainability remains a key goal, practical implementation in the freight sector requires addressing infrastructure and cost challenges. The focus will be on strategic partnerships and leveraging technology to improve resource utilization.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cargo Sector Faces Economic Uncertainty Amid Diverging Trends

Cargo Sector Faces Economic Uncertainty Amid Diverging Trends

The current divergence between macroeconomic data and the perceived experience of the freight logistics industry challenges the 'freight-first' theory. This article analyzes factors such as consumption structure transformation, inventory cycle adjustments, and inflation. It emphasizes that data analysts should utilize granular data analysis, high-frequency data tracking, and multi-source data integration to penetrate the fog and gain insights into the true state of the economy. This approach helps businesses and governments find certainty amidst uncertainty.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Logistics Market Trends to Watch in 2026

Global Logistics Market Trends to Watch in 2026

Flexport is launching a webinar series featuring industry experts providing in-depth analysis of the global logistics market. The series will forecast air and ocean freight market trends for 2026, interpret holiday consumption patterns and tariff policies, and showcase Flexport's latest technology. Participants can engage in live Q&A sessions, gain valuable market intelligence, and learn practical strategies to optimize their supply chains and gain a competitive edge. This series aims to empower businesses to navigate the complexities of the global market and prepare for future challenges.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Datadriven Strategy Boosts Amazon Best Seller Success

Datadriven Strategy Boosts Amazon Best Seller Success

This paper addresses the challenge of selecting products with multiple variations on Amazon. It proposes two practical methods: first, utilizing product selection tools to forecast sales; and second, analyzing the ratio of Ratings to Reviews to gain insights into user preferences. The paper emphasizes the importance of combining various data metrics to optimize inventory management, reduce operational risks, and ultimately help sellers achieve profitable growth.

01/06/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Freight Index Forecasts Future Shipping Costs for Logistics

Freight Index Forecasts Future Shipping Costs for Logistics

The Cowen/AFS Freight Index, a collaboration between Cowen Inc. and AFS Logistics LLC, provides businesses with predictive pricing tools across LTL, Truckload, and Parcel sectors. Leveraging AFS's extensive freight data and advanced machine learning algorithms, the index forecasts future freight rate trends. This enables companies to optimize logistics strategies and reduce operational costs by providing insights into anticipated price fluctuations. The index aims to be a valuable resource for businesses seeking to improve their freight management and budgeting processes.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Parcel Discounts Rise As LTL Rates Hold Truckload Demand Slows TD Cowen

Parcel Discounts Rise As LTL Rates Hold Truckload Demand Slows TD Cowen

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index indicates a fragmented freight market: unprecedented discounts in parcel shipping, resilient or potentially increasing LTL pricing, and sluggish demand in truckload. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics and flexibly adjust logistics strategies to capitalize on opportunities and navigate challenges. This includes leveraging parcel discounts while preparing for potential LTL rate hikes and optimizing truckload operations in a low-demand environment. Proactive adaptation is key to success in the current volatile freight landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Retail Imports Slow Holiday Sales Still Strong

US Retail Imports Slow Holiday Sales Still Strong

Despite headwinds like government shutdowns, U.S. retail container ports remain on a growth trajectory, albeit at a slower pace. The report forecasts holiday sales growth, but retailers should focus on consumer confidence and inventory management. Experts advise strengthening supply chain management, diversifying sourcing channels, and investing in technological innovation to navigate market changes. Proactive measures are crucial for retailers to optimize operations and maintain competitiveness in a dynamic environment.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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NRF Predicts Sustained Retail Growth Through 2025

NRF Predicts Sustained Retail Growth Through 2025

The National Retail Federation (NRF) forecasts a 2.7%-3.7% increase in retail sales for 2025, with online channels continuing to drive growth. The report analyzes the macroeconomic environment and consumer behavior, providing retailers with strategic recommendations such as omnichannel integration and product mix optimization. It also highlights the importance of monitoring potential risks associated with policy uncertainty.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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