world-economy

US Trade Deficit Widens to Largest Since March 2025 as Capital Equipment Imports Surge

The US merchandise-trade deficit widened to its largest level since March 2025 in July, driven by a surge in capital equipment imports. This surge strained inbound logistics networks. The Logistics Managers' Index held near four-year highs at 68.9 in July, down 2.2 points from June's reading of 71.1. Truckload carriers benefited from sustained demand, with spot rate indices posting their strongest sequential gains in five years through the second quarter. This momentum extended into the third quarter. Carrier capacity remained constrained throughout the period, supporting pricing power for trucking providers.