Topic
cost
Logistics Modal Shift: Why Shippers Avoid Cheaper Intermodal Despite Cost Savings
Nicholas Shipe from Circle Logistics explains that in automotive logistics, shippers avoid cheaper intermodal rail because production uptime is the priority. Cost is not the only driver; manufacturers also consider America's overlooked energy advantage shaping industrial supply chains.
Commodities UK Electricity Prices Remain Among Europe’s Highest as Wholesale Gas Costs and Grid Investment Bite
The BBC reports that UK household electricity prices are the fourth highest in Europe, driven by three factors: wholesale gas costs (heightened by wars in Iran and Ukraine), a gas-heavy generation mix (31% from natural gas in 2025), and rising grid infrastructure investment. France, by contrast, generates 69% of its electricity from nuclear power.
Technology Rising Cost Fuels Rush for Refurbished Devices as New Shipments Decline
India's refurbished smartphone and laptop market is projected to grow significantly in 2026, driven by soaring component costs that have pushed up prices of new devices. Counterpoint Research expects 12% year-on-year growth in refurbished smartphones, while new smartphone shipments are set to decline 11%. Major brands like Samsung are expanding certified refurbished programmes.
Logistics ZERO44 Makes €492-per-Tonne Case for Biofuel Profit Beyond Compliance
Berlin-based carbon management platform ZERO44 has published a whitepaper demonstrating that shipowners can turn biodiesel premiums into a profit of up to €492 per tonne by coordinating compliance across CII, EU ETS, FuelEU Maritime and voluntary carbon markets. The analysis highlights pooling and insetting as dual revenue streams, warns against double-counting reductions, and addresses charter party hurdles.
E-Commerce & Marketplaces Survey of 9,000 Consumers Reveals Pricing and Tax Transparency Key to Cross-Border Growth
A global survey of 9,000 consumers across nine markets reveals that pricing clarity, duties, and tax transparency are critical factors for conversion and trust in cross-border e-commerce. The findings underscore the need for sellers to clearly communicate total landed costs and comply with customs regulations.
Cement demand and prices under pressure amid monsoon onset and rising costs
The onset of the south-west monsoon, labour shortages, and rising fuel costs have pushed India's cement prices down ₹3-5 per bag to an average of ₹356, while the industry faces cost inflation of ₹350-400 per tonne. Analysts expect demand to remain subdued for the next two months, with recovery only after the monsoon season.
Technology Chipflation Hits Enterprise Hardware as AI Demand Drives Memory Prices Up 15x
Rising demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) for AI is causing a chip shortage, driving up prices of standard DRAM, NAND, and legacy microcontrollers. Prices of eMMC memory have increased 12 times, DDR memory 15 times, and smart TV prices have risen 30%. Industry leaders warn of further increases and supply constraints, affecting everything from smartphones to kitchen appliances. Enterprise technology buyers must prepare for higher component costs and potential delays.
Technology Cost of ransomware recovery too high? Here’s how to stop footing the bill
Ransomware attacks cost organizations $57 billion globally last year, with costs expected to rise to $275 billion by 2031. To reduce recovery costs, organizations must align IT operations and security teams beyond traditional security-only planning. Regulations like NIS2 and DORA in the EU now place responsibility on senior leadership.
Business Strong Consumption Drives Steady Growth Amid Iran Conflict Costs
India's economy maintains steady growth driven by strong domestic consumption, despite challenges from the West Asia conflict. The government is focusing on attracting foreign investment and asset sales to boost revenue.
Commodities UK Pint Prices Surge 36% Amid Rising Costs
The price of a pint in UK pubs has increased by 36% since the last World Cup, driven by rising costs and taxes. Energy price hikes and increased national insurance contributions have significantly impacted pub operations.
Logistics Tax Strategies: Own or Lease Your Truck?
Understanding the tax implications of owning versus leasing a truck can significantly impact logistics operations. Key tax provisions like Section 179 allow for substantial deductions, influencing the decision-making process for freight operators.