Continuing the Conversation: Answers & Insights

We weren't able to address all the questions during our recent webinar, 2025 Transportation Outlook: Transportation Challenges in a Shifting Political Landscape. So, we're taking the opportunity to answer them here!

Question: With the trucking market stabilizing post-pandemic / post freight recession, are you expecting an uptick in new truck buying -- or will that be driven by regulations?

Answer: Trucking companies, on the whole, have overbought equipment over the last few years and are getting ready to do so again in the near future, ahead of the 2027 NOx regulation. 2025 is likely to be a more muted year for new truck purchasing, but we could see some additional activity towards the latter portion of the year as we gear up for strong purchasing activity in 2026.

Question: What upside/downside impacts, if any, do you see to Panama Canal disruption this year with new White House policy? 

Answer: None. Any Panama Canal disruption is likely to stem from water flow, not politics.

Question: Do you believe the consumer has the ability to hold up the economy when real inflation is still much higher than 2019 (baseline), and how do you see consumer debt keeping spending down on goods and services? 

Answer: Inflation on Goods is very much back in line with what we saw during the Teens. With employment growth still staying robust, we see no major reason why the consumer will pull back considerably in 2025. There are clearly differences in outcomes when we look at the lower income segments, but retail (on the whole) should be able to stay afloat in 2025. And that would be enough to keep the overall economy growing.

Missed the Webinar?

2025 Transportation Outlook: Transportation Challenges in a Shifting Political Landscape

Watch the Replay!

We truly value the opportunity to engage with you and are always happy to answer any questions or participate in meaningful discussions on these topics. Feel free to reach out anytime—your insights and inquiries are always welcome! 

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