This week on Supply Chain Secrets, Lars and Caroline unpack the latest twists in global trade policy—from the EU tariff threats to the 90-day ceasefire’s ripple effects across U.S. ports. Lars explains why unpredictability—not the tariffs themselves—is the real disruptor, and how that plays out in vessel deployment, port congestion, and inland supply chains. They also dive into NYFI data trends beyond China, explore the political push for domestic shipbuilding in India vs. the U.S., and preview the FMC’s new fact-finding mission. Don't miss out on freight insights like these! Sign up to receive the free NYFI data at nyshex.com/indices!
This week on Supply Chain Secrets, Caroline Weaver and Lars Jensen unpack the realities behind recent shifts in container pricing and trade policy. With U.S.–China tariffs in limbo, and equipment imbalances starting to ripple across the market, Lars estimates up to 500,000 TEU of cargo could be waiting in China—setting the stage for potential U.S. port congestion and a spot rate surge.Also on deck:-Why 20-foot containers are sometimes more expensive than 40s—and how NYFI reveals the volatility-What makes NYFI different from other indices when market pressure builds-A breakdown of the USTR revision and its overlooked inland impacts-The UK–EU trade deal as a sign of more non-U.S. alliances to comeGet the facts. Spot the trends. Subscribe to the NYFI:👉 nyshex.com/indices
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28:05
The Freight Train Is Coming: US-China Tariffs and the Next Domino
This week on Supply Chain Secrets, Lars Jensen and Caroline Weaver unpack the biggest trade development of the year: a surprise 90-day tariff pause between the U.S. and China. But don’t be fooled—this isn't a trade deal, it’s a ceasefire. Lars breaks down the predictable—and chaotic—domino effects already unfolding: empty shelves, congested ports, volatile freight rates, and a scramble to move peak-season cargo before the next deadline hits. Plus, they explore the latest NYSHEX Freight Index (NYFI) data and what it reveals about rates, equipment risk, and demand distortions. From peak season panic to port bottlenecks, this episode helps shippers brace for what’s next.
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28:26
Volatility, Blank Sailings, and the Myth of Standstill Supply Chains
Lars Jensen joins from the Dominican Republic to unpack the latest supply chain headlines—and debunk the noise. From Red Sea escalation and new trade war shocks to unraveling what “reliability” actually means in today’s shipping landscape, this episode dives deep. We discuss: • Record-low bunker fuel prices and what that means for Q3 • Wildcard tariffs (yes, even on foreign movies) • The truth behind blank sailings and “capacity cuts” • Whether shipping is really coming to a halt (spoiler: it’s not) • Why toilet paper isn’t your biggest worryExpect clarity, nuance, and straight talk on what’s signal and what’s spin.
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26:09
Rates, Risk & Reality: Inside the NYSHEX Freight Index Launch
The market is in flux—tariffs, blank sailings, air freight shifts, and rate volatility are reshaping global supply chains. In this episode, Caroline Weaver and Lars Jensen are joined by Rich Heath, VP of Freight Products & Services at NYSHEX, to break down the recent launch of the NYSHEX Freight Index. Learn how this new tool provides real-time rate visibility, enables index-linked contracts, and could pave the way for freight derivatives. Recorded just days after the Index Day event at the New York Stock Exchange, this conversation covers what’s changing, what’s not, and how shippers and NVOs can regain control in unpredictable times.
The Supply Chain Secrets Podcast cuts through the noise to bring you real, unfiltered insights from the front lines of global logistics. Whether you’re a shipper, NVO, carrier, or just someone who needs to stay ahead of market shifts, we deliver analysis and hard-hitting conversations that actually matter. Visit nyshex.com/podcast to register to attend live!
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