Business
Transport Topics business coverage focuses on the financial, economic, and commercial aspects of the modern freight business. Looking at both the microeconomic and macroeconomic forces shaping bottom lines, the news in this category includes labor news, jobs reports, tonnage and sales indicators, operations analysis, money and banking, mergers, acquisitions, e-commerce, bankruptcy, insurance issues, and more.
TA Reports Mixed Q4, Full-Year Results
TravelCenters of America reported fourth-quarter net income with a significant increase in fuel gross margin, but revenue dipped. It posted similar full-year results.
Diesel Falls 3.1¢ to $2.851 Per Gallon
The U.S. average retail price of diesel fell 3.1 cents to $2.851 per gallon, the Department of Energy reported March 2.
Amtrak Names Former Air Cargo Executive as New CEO
Amtrak named a former air cargo executive as its new president and chief operating officer March 2.
March 2, 2020Factories Expand Despite Virus, Though Deliveries Slow
WASHINGTON — American factories expanded in February for the second straight month, despite disruptions caused by the coronavirus outbreak.
US Construction Spending Up 1.8% in January to Record Level
WASHINGTON — Spending on U.S. construction projects rose to an all-time high in January, helped by strong gains for home construction and government building projects.
Most Ports See Container Volumes Decline in January
Facing strong headwinds from the lingering effects of the U.S.-China trade war, the slowdown associated with the Chinese New Year, and later the coronavirus, most of the nation’s ports saw container volumes fall in January.
Economists Fear Possible Recession as Coronavirus Spreads
Economists who closely follow the transportation and trucking industry say the next month will be critical as to whether the economy avoids a recession in 2020 as concerns over the spread of the coronavirus mount.
As Coronavirus Spreads, Global Demand for Oil Lessens, Prices Fall
NEW YORK — With the coronavirus outbreak spreading to more countries, the price of oil has dropped precipitously as global demand weakens even further.
First Negative US Yields Get Closer Amid Virus Fallout Fears
The swirl of fresh coronavirus cases and growing risks to the global economy have some seasoned market strategists warning that U.S. growth could come to a halt this year and some Treasury yields may drop below zero for the first time.
Massachusetts Transportation Funding Plan Would Increase Gas Taxes
BOSTON — Fees for ride-hailing services and a 5-cents-per-gallon hike in the state’s gas tax are the heart of a plan floated by Democrats in the House of Representatives to pay for upgrades to roads, bridges and public transit.