In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam covers the upcoming Inland Distribution Conference, also known as Inland25, scheduled to take place in Chicago starting September 29th. Joined by Eric Johnson, Senior Editor at the Journal of Commerce from S&P Global, they explore the significance of this event for shippers, logistics companies, and other stakeholders in the industry.

The conversation highlights the conference's theme, "Searching for Value Amid Uncertainty," reflecting the current economic climate and its impact on the logistics sector. Eric shares insights on navigating complexities in cross-border logistics between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, especially in light of recent trade policy changes and the impending renegotiation of the USMCA agreement.

Listeners will also gain valuable perspectives on how technology is transforming the logistics landscape, including discussions on appointment scheduling, automation, and the role of data in decision-making. As they look ahead to the challenges and opportunities in the freight market, Eric emphasizes the importance of building resilient teams in an increasingly complex environment.

Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or new to logistics, this episode offers essential insights and a preview of what to expect at Inland25. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and strategies that can drive business value in today's uncertain landscape.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Register for the Inland Distribution conference
• Toll of US tariffs begins to emerge on unsettled trans-Pacific
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Eric Johnson
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun 

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, guest host Tommy McCartin, Principal Economist on the Pricing and Purchasing team, dives deep into the implications of the modified country-specific tariffs imposed by the U.S. on ASEAN economies. Joined by expert guests Ashima Tyagi, Economics Associate Director in Singapore, and Yan Hoong, Lead Electronics Economist in Kuala Lumpur, the discussion explores how these tariffs are reshaping trade dynamics within the ASEAN region and the global electronics supply chain.

Listeners will gain insights into how ASEAN countries are responding to the U.S. tariffs, the current state of the electronics sector, and the strategies firms can adopt to build resilience in their supply chains. The episode also addresses the complexities of the global semiconductor market, highlighting demand shifts and pricing pressures that are influencing the future of electronics manufacturing.

As the region grapples with new trade realities, the podcast offers a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for ASEAN economies and their pivotal roles in global trade networks. Tune in for valuable insights that empower confident decision-making in a rapidly changing landscape.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Picture This: Raw materials and some fabricated products prices surge under 50% Section 232 tariff scenario
• Weekly Pricing Pulse: MPI Increases for Third Consecutive Week
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Hosts: Tommy McCartin
• Guests: Ashima Tyagi, Yan Hoong
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun 

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam introduces a team of S&P Global economists to discuss the latest analysis and predictions for the global economy as we move into the latter half of 2025. Taken from a recent webinar, the discussion delves into key macroeconomic themes, including the ongoing uncertainty surrounding trade policies, divergent inflation dynamics, and the impact of fiscal sustainability on major economies.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the expected moderation of U.S. growth, the struggles of Europe's largest economies, and the resilience of mainland China's economy. The episode highlights the significant role tariffs play in shaping inflation and economic slowdown, as well as the varying monetary policies between the U.S. and Europe.

Join us as we explore the intricate connections between geopolitical developments, trade dynamics, and economic performance in various regions, all while addressing the looming risks and opportunities that lie ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned economist or just curious about the state of the global economy, this episode provides essential analysis to empower confident decision-making.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Global economic outlook: July 2025
• US tariffs: Impact on the US construction industry
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Hosts: Kristen Hallam, Ken Wattret
• Guests: Ben Herzon, Hanna Luchnikava-Schorsch, Diego Iscaro
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun 

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, S&P Global Market Intelligence's team of Purchasing Managers' Index economists decodes inflation, highlighting the stark differences between the US and Eurozone. 

Join host Paul Smith and fellow economists Andrew Harker and Phil Smith as they explore the underlying factors driving these trends, including tariffs and exchange rate movements. The team analyzes the latest PMI numbers from Germany and discuss how inflation expectations shape price pressures and client behavior, using Ghana as a compelling case study.

The economists also look for clues into what firms worldwide are planning for the upcoming year in our Business Outlook data. The discussion features special questions regarding the impact of tariffs, focusing on Germany, the US, and Ireland, where these effects are expected to be significant. As they wrap up, they consider investment and employment strategies amid an uncertain economic landscape.

Tune in for a comprehensive look at the forces shaping our global economy and what they mean for businesses moving forward.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Strong currency appreciation opens door to interest rate cuts in Ghana
• Global economic outlook: June 2025
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Paul Smith
• Guests: Andrew Harker, Phil Smith
• Produced By: Sophie Carr
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Feranmi Adeoshun 

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam is joined by S&P Global Market Intelligence experts Chris Rogers and John Raines to unpack the latest developments in U.S. tariffs and trade policy as of July 9.

With the U.S. administration's approach to leveraging tariffs as a negotiation tool, the experts assess recent agreements with countries like Vietnam, the U.K., and China, and the complexities surrounding ongoing negotiations.

The team also examines the implications of transshipment practices, particularly in Southeast Asia, and the legal challenges currently facing tariff implementations. As the administration aims to revitalize U.S. manufacturing while navigating intricate international relationships, this episode provides critical insights into the future of trade relations and the potential economic impacts on both domestic and global markets.

Listen now to an engaging discussion of the evolving landscape of tariffs and trade. 

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Tariff Uncertainty Is Likely to Continue Through Late 2025
• Implications of the India-UK Free-Trade Agreement
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Chris Rogers, John Raines
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Kristen Hallam
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun 

How do you identify which markets present the best opportunity for growth, and which are especially vulnerable to fluctuating trade and tariff policies?

In this episode of The Decisive podcast, host Kristen Hallam uncovers the origin stories behind two tools created to address these key questions: the Strategic Opportunity Index (SOI) and the Trade and Tariff Vulnerability Index (TTV). Joining Kristen for this discussion are expert guests Cassandra Pagan, Justin Valentino, and Natasha McSwiggan. 

The discussion begins with an exploration of the SOI, designed to provide clarity in a complex geopolitical and trade landscape by evaluating market attractiveness through five key pillars: market potential, policy favorability, institutional quality, logistics efficiency, and resource availability. The guests share insights on how momentum scoring within the SOI helps identify expanding market opportunities, emphasizing the importance of understanding market trajectories rather than just current standings.

The conversation also highlights the origin stories behind both indices, showcasing the collaborative efforts of the team to create tools that can guide strategic decision-making for businesses navigating global trade dynamics. The experts discuss how the TTV assesses the vulnerability of economies to tariffs, providing valuable insights for businesses to adapt and strategize in the face of evolving U.S. trade policies.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how these indices can inform economic decisions, identify potential risks, and uncover opportunities in the global marketplace. Join us for an engaging discussion that combines analytical rigor with practical applications, perfect for anyone interested in the intersection of economics and global trade.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• The Strategic Opportunity Index
• Uncertain US Tariff Policy Raises Risks for Trading Partners
• Country Risk Month Ahead: July 2025

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Cassandra Pagan, Justin Valentino, Natasha McSwiggan
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun 

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam is joined by analysts Jacob Lees Weiss and Kevjn Lim to explore the intricate and rapidly shifting risk landscape in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. 

Recorded before significant military operations in Iran, the discussion explores nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran, the implications of potential sanctions, and the dynamics of Israeli military strategy.

The episode highlights key geopolitical tensions, including the evolving relationship between the US and Israel and the impact of these factors on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Listeners will gain insights into the challenges facing the Syrian Transitional Government and the role of foreign support in stabilizing the region.

With a focus on the potential for both conflict and cooperation, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of the MENA region's current state and future outlook, making it essential listening for anyone interested in international relations, economics, and market intelligence.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Picture This: Israel-Iran Conflict Leads to Sharp Shock in Global Growth
• Maritime shadow fleet − Formation, operation and continuing risk for sanctions compliance teams in 2025
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Kevjn Lim, Jacob Lees Weiss
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun 

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam is joined by Max Janthur, the product specialist for Port Performance, to delve into the critical issue of congestion at the world's ports. As global trade continues to evolve, understanding the role of ports becomes increasingly vital for economies and supply chains.

Max shares insights from the latest Port Performance report, highlighting the significant risks and impacts of port congestion, including increased operational costs, supply chain disruptions, and environmental concerns. The discussion explores key metrics related to port efficiency, such as vessel turnaround times and berth productivity, and how these factors influence the broader economic landscape.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges ports face and the importance of monitoring trends to mitigate disruptions. Max emphasizes that port congestion remains a real risk for global trade, making this conversation essential for government officials, carriers, port operators, and supply chain strategists alike.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Global Port Congestion Analysis − Port Performance Program
• Robust demand emerges on Asia-Europe ocean trade as peak season begins
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Max Janthur
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun 

In this episode of the Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam dives deep into the complex world of the maritime shadow fleet, exploring its emergence and evolution since the introduction of the oil price cap on December 5, 2022. Joined by Ines Nastali, Senior Supply Chain Analyst at S&P Global Market Intelligence, the discussion covers how these oil tankers operate outside traditional regulatory frameworks, often evading sanctions imposed by various governments.

Listeners will gain insights into the size and characteristics of the shadow fleet, which includes an estimated 940 tankers, many of which are older vessels that may not meet modern safety standards. Ines shares key statistics, including the significant increase in shadow fleet activity and the sophisticated tactics employed by these vessels to circumvent sanctions, such as turning off AIS signals and engaging in ship-to-ship transfers.

The episode also highlights recent enforcement actions taken against shadow fleet vessels, particularly in the Baltic Sea, and discusses the environmental and safety concerns associated with these aging ships. Tune in to understand the implications of the shadow fleet on global oil trade and the evolving landscape of maritime compliance.

Whether you're a maritime professional, a supply chain analyst, or simply curious about the intricacies of global oil transportation, this episode offers valuable insights and a comprehensive overview of a pressing issue in today's geopolitical climate.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Maritime shadow fleet − Formation, operation and continuing risk for sanctions compliance teams in 2025
• Fraudulent flags: Growing challenge for maritime safety
• The New Tariff Reality: Preparing for Disruption, Defending Your Margins

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guest: Ines Nastali
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun 

In this episode of The Decisive, we're sharing highlights from our US macroeconomic webinar on May 20, featuring expert commentary from our economics team at S&P Global Market Intelligence.

We dive deep into the forecast for the US economy, which faces a slowdown. Projected growth is expected to average just 0.8% per quarter in 2025, raising questions about the potential for a recession. We explain the anatomy of a recession, walking through recent examples, and share our outlook. 

Our economists also discuss the implications of elevated tariffs, which are contributing to inflationary pressures and reshaping business investment decisions. The Federal Reserve's cautious approach amid policy uncertainty is also explored, with expectations for a pause in rate adjustments until late 2026.

Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the rising federal budget deficit, projected to increase from 6% to 7% over the next decade, and its effects on the US dollar, which is anticipated to weaken in the coming years.

Join us for this informative episode as we unpack these critical economic trends and equip you with the knowledge to navigate the evolving landscape. Stay curious and stay informed with The Decisive Podcast.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Recession Risks
• Global Economic Outlook: May 2025
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Alyssa Grzelak
• Guests: Juan Turcios, Ben Herzon, Pat Newport, Mike Konidaris
• Produced By: Debbie Taylor, Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun