world-economy

US Economic Growth Lags Expectations as Trucking Rates Accelerate

The U.S. economy expanded at a 1.5% rate in the second quarter, falling short of forecasts despite steady consumer spending and business capital expenditures. Mexico's economy rebounded more sharply than anticipated as export volumes climbed to record levels, even as trade friction with the U.S. persists. The divergent economic signals are already rippling through freight markets. Trucking rate indexes surged during the quarter, with both truckload and less-than-truckload carriers raising prices. Industry participants expect rates to reach new highs in the third quarter as shippers contend with tightening capacity and elevated operational costs. The combination of softer domestic growth and accelerating export activity from Mexico suggests carriers may face uneven demand across regions.