Podcasts about norfolk southern

Can a mega merger of peers increase competition in their market? Case in point: the proposed rail merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. Both are Class I railroads, among the largest by revenue in North America as defined by the Surface Transportation Board. According to a 2001 Surface Transportation Board rule, their merger must enhance competition - but that's not usually how mergers are designed to work, especially among giants. And this is the first rail merger that has to meet that requirement. After some back-and-forth, the Surface Transportation Board "conditionally" accepted the merger application on May 28th, but they are still looking for more information. No review activities will be conducted until that information is provided. In other words: the Surface Transportation Board has accepted the Union Pacific - Norfolk Southern filing, but they have not accepted the information provided in that filing. We'll have to wait to find out if the application is approved based on its merits. In this episode of the Art of Supply podcast, Kelly Barner covers the proposed merger from multiple angles: - The expectations for increased rail competition and public benefit - How the railways propose to give their non-transcontinental competitors a fighting chance - Whether the Surface Transportation Board and a coalition of opponents think competition is likely Links: One Railroad to Rule Them All? Inside the Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern Merger: https://artofprocurement.com/blog/supply-one-railroad-to-rule-them-all-inside-the-union-pacific-norfolk-southern-merger  Kelly Barner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-barner-6884443/  Art of Supply LinkedIn newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/art-of-supply-6895142546301960193  Art of Supply on AOP: http://www.artofsupply.com  Subscribe to the Art of Procurement Newsletter: https://resources.artofprocurement.com/art-of-procurement-podcast-subscribe   

In this episode of FTR's Rail Market Update, host Joseph Towers covers: STB accepts revised UPNS merger application as “Complete”.Procedural merger timeline delayed until certain deficiencies are remedied by Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern.Update on weekly rail traffic The Rail Market Update is hosted by FTR's Senior Analyst, Rail, Joseph Towers.  As this information is presented, you are welcome to follow along and look at the graphs and indicators yourself by downloading the PDF of the presentation.Download the PDF: https://www.ftrintel.com/rail-podcastSupport the show

The market briefly spikes on a new Axios report that the U.S. and Iran have reached a deal but still need President Trump's final approval. Then the CEO of chip designer and Nvidia partner Synopsis, on earnings and AI demand. Plus, the Surface Transportation Board pauses the review for the deal between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific. Could the rail merger be in jeopardy? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An investigation into fertilizer price spikes is underway according to FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin tells Agri-Pulse researchers will "follow the science" in its review of the safety of glyphosate without bias. The STB has unanimously accepted a revised merger application between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. 

This Day in Legal History: Andrew Johnson Impeachment Trial EndsOn May 26, 1868, the United States Senate ended the impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson, bringing one of the most dramatic constitutional confrontations in American history to a close. Johnson had been impeached by the House of Representatives earlier that year after clashing repeatedly with Congress over Reconstruction. At the center of the dispute was the future of the defeated South and the legal status of formerly enslaved people after the Civil War. Johnson favored a more lenient approach toward former Confederate states, while the Republican-controlled Congress sought stronger protections for freedmen and stricter conditions for reentry. The immediate trigger for impeachment was Johnson's attempt to remove Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, which Congress argued violated the Tenure of Office Act. The Senate had already voted on one article of impeachment on May 16, and Johnson survived by a single vote. Ten days later, on May 26, the Senate voted on two more articles, with the result again falling one vote short of the two-thirds majority required for conviction. The final vote of 35 to 19 meant Johnson would remain in office.After that result, the Senate adjourned as a court of impeachment and the trial came to an end. The acquittal did not make Johnson politically strong, but it preserved the principle that removing a president required more than intense political disagreement. The trial also tested the separation of powers during a period when Congress and the presidency were fighting over who would control Reconstruction. In later years, the Tenure of Office Act was repealed, and its constitutionality remained deeply suspect. Johnson's impeachment became a lasting example of how legal rules, political conflict, and constitutional design can collide in moments of national crisis.The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has advanced a major five-year transportation funding bill that would send about $580 billion toward roads, bridges, transit, rail projects, and highway safety programs. The measure, called the BUILD America 250 Act, passed the committee by a 62-2 vote after a lengthy markup and now heads to the full House. The bill is meant to replace the current surface transportation law, which was part of the 2021 infrastructure package and is set to expire at the end of September. Supporters from both parties framed the proposal as a way to keep infrastructure funding moving while giving states flexibility and speeding up project delivery.One of the most closely watched additions is a rail safety package inspired by the 2023 Norfolk Southern derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. That section would require at least two crew members on many trains, add inspection requirements, regulate defect detectors, and place limits on certain hazardous-material trains. Rail labor groups and the White House have backed stronger rules, while the major railroads argue the proposal is driven more by politics and labor demands than by the causes of the East Palestine crash.The bill would also create a first federal regulatory structure for autonomous commercial vehicles, including automated trucks, buses, and other larger vehicles. Industry supporters say that framework would help the United States compete globally in autonomous transportation, while transit labor leaders say the bill includes important human-oversight protections to keep workers involved and improve safety. Another contested provision would impose a new annual federal registration fee on electric vehicle owners, starting at $130 and later rising to $150, to help support the Highway Trust Fund.Backers say EV drivers should contribute to road funding because they do not pay federal gas taxes. Electric vehicle advocates, however, call the fee punitive and argue it would discourage EV adoption without meaningfully solving the trust fund's long-term funding gap.What's In The House Surface Transportation Funding Bill? - Law360The Justice Department has asked a federal court to lift an injunction blocking work on President Donald Trump's ballroom project, arguing that a recent shooting outside the White House shows why stronger security is needed. In a short filing Sunday, DOJ said the incident highlights the need for high-level security upgrades at the White House, including the ballroom, and again sought dismissal of the lawsuit challenging the project. The case was brought by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which has opposed the project and previously refused to withdraw its suit after an alleged foiled attack connected to the White House Correspondents' Association dinner in April. DOJ had already cited that earlier incident in asking the court to end the case. According to the Secret Service, the person who fired at a White House checkpoint on Saturday was shot by officers and later died at a hospital. The filing ties the shooting to the government's broader argument that the project is important for national security.US Justice Department seeks to lift injunction on ballroom project after shooting | ReutersMy column for Bloomberg this week argues that Tennessee's recent decision in SAP America, Inc. v. Gerregano shows how poorly traditional state tax categories fit modern software. The court treated SAP's software licenses as nontaxable intangible property, while allowing Tennessee to tax cloud hosting and cloud-based services delivered electronically into the state. That split made sense because SAP's products were cleanly separated into licenses, hosting, and cloud services. But the column argues that most modern software is not so tidy. Even products that seem local often rely on remote tools for logins, updates, syncing, storage, analytics, customer support, or payment processing. As AI becomes built into ordinary software, the line between software and cloud-based service will become even harder to draw.The column focuses on the “true-object” test, which asks what the customer is really buying when a transaction has multiple elements. That test works when the taxable and nontaxable pieces are visible and separately priced, but it becomes much harder to apply when remote processing is hidden inside a product the customer experiences simply as software. The piece argues that states should adopt a software-specific safe harbor rather than treating every remote feature as taxable cloud access. Under that approach, software would be presumed to remain software when remote functions are limited to things like authentication, updates, syncing, security, or modest product enhancements. A state could rebut that presumption if the customer is really buying hosted processing, managed infrastructure, AI model access, inference, or other platform-level functionality. The point is not to abandon the true-object test, but to give it a clearer threshold for hybrid software. Without that guardrail, AI could give states an easy but flawed path to reclassify almost any software product with a remote model feature as taxable cloud access. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

how is this even legal also sorry we recorded this the day right before the updated proposal was released. whoops! donate to help buy liam's coworker's grandson a mobility van: https://helphopelive.org/campaign/24216/ check out Public Rail Now: https://publicrailnow.org/ Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtyppod/ Send us stuff! our address: Well There's Your Podcasting Company PO Box 26929 Philadelphia, PA 19134 DO NOT SEND US LETTER BOMBS thanks in advance in the commercial: Local Forecast - Elevator Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

In this episode of The Scoop, Margy Eckelkamp sits down with Hunter Carpenter from the Agricultural Retailers Association to break down the critical policy shifts currently moving through Washington, D.C. The conversation centers on the House-passed Farm Bill, highlighting key wins like the TSP Access Act and the new plant biostimulant definition. However, Hunter also addresses the "hiccups" in the House version, specifically the removal of language regarding uniform labeling and NPDES permit reforms—issues the ARA hopes to revive in the Senate. The episode further explores the House's recent passage of year-round E15 sales. Beyond legislation, Hunter discusses the ARA’s cautious stance on the proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern rail merger, emphasizing that maintaining competition is vital for keeping freight rates manageable for retailers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dustin Whitten is a full time 1:1 railroader that's also an HO scale model railroader known for his coal-hauling Appalachian-themed layouts. His current layout was featured in the "Built by Others" series on Trains.com inspired by the Virginian project layout that  first appeared in the pages of Model Railroader in January of 2012. Dustin's Norfolk & Western South Branch layout took inspiration from this project and adjusted it to fit his space. His freelance layout, the Norfolk & Western South Branch, models Southwestern Virginia in 1987 during the early Norfolk Southern era.   On this podcast he explains how he expanded and customized the original Virginian project plan with broader curves, a redesigned coal marshaling yard, realistic operations based on prototype railroad practices using a mix of Norfolk and Western, Southern Railway, and early Norfolk Southern power. It's a great podcast and one we're sure you'll enjoy!!

Georgia's judicial watchdog says two left-leaning candidates running for state Supreme Court have violated the rules of conduct; After regulators rejected their first attempt, Atlanta-based rail company Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific have filed a second application to merge; Organizers from Georgia and beyond are calling for a new generation of voting rights activists to mobilize against the redrawing of state congressional lines which they say will dilute Black voting power.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are again seeking approval from the Surface Transportation Board to merge, forming the nation's first coast to coast railroad company. President Trump is expect to host Brazilian President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva for talks about shared economic and security issues. Gasoline prices are up 31-cents a gallon over the last week, that's over 50% higher than a year ago. 

In this episode, we kick things off by examining Union Pacific's massive eighty-five billion dollar acquisition of Norfolk Southern and the railroad's newly disclosed conditions for walking away from the deal. UP has made clear it will abandon the merger if the Surface Transportation Board orders widespread trackage rights or line sales as approval conditions, though it would accept a requirement to spin off one duplicative main line between Kansas City and St. Louis. If burdensome conditions trigger Union Pacific's exit, it will owe Norfolk Southern a staggering two point five billion dollar breakup fee. Meanwhile, out on the water, a critical geopolitical milestone unfolded in one of the world's most strategic maritime chokepoints. A Maersk ro-ro carrier became the first U.S.-flag vessel to safely exit the Strait of Hormuz under American naval protection after months in the Persian Gulf. The Alliance Fairfax, operated by Farrell Lines and part of the Maritime Security Program, completed the high-stakes transit at a fraught time as the U.S. and Iran exchanged threats amid a fragile ceasefire. Finally, we explore Amazon's aggressive expansion into third-party logistics as the e-commerce giant officially rebranded its freight and fulfillment services under the unified Amazon Supply Chain Services umbrella and opened them to all businesses. Backed by over eighty thousand trailers and one hundred freighter aircraft, the move transforms Amazon into a direct competitor to traditional carriers, with early clients including Procter & Gamble and American Eagle Outfitters. Wall Street reacted sharply, sending UPS stock down nine point five percent on fears of massive disruption to the freight transportation industry. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we kick things off by examining Union Pacific's massive eighty-five billion dollar acquisition of Norfolk Southern and the railroad's newly disclosed conditions for walking away from the deal. UP has made clear it will abandon the merger if the Surface Transportation Board orders widespread trackage rights or line sales as approval conditions, though it would accept a requirement to spin off one duplicative main line between Kansas City and St. Louis. If burdensome conditions trigger Union Pacific's exit, it will owe Norfolk Southern a staggering two point five billion dollar breakup fee. Meanwhile, out on the water, a critical geopolitical milestone unfolded in one of the world's most strategic maritime chokepoints. A Maersk ro-ro carrier became the first U.S.-flag vessel to safely exit the Strait of Hormuz under American naval protection after months in the Persian Gulf. The Alliance Fairfax, operated by Farrell Lines and part of the Maritime Security Program, completed the high-stakes transit at a fraught time as the U.S. and Iran exchanged threats amid a fragile ceasefire. Finally, we explore Amazon's aggressive expansion into third-party logistics as the e-commerce giant officially rebranded its freight and fulfillment services under the unified Amazon Supply Chain Services umbrella and opened them to all businesses. Backed by over eighty thousand trailers and one hundred freighter aircraft, the move transforms Amazon into a direct competitor to traditional carriers, with early clients including Procter & Gamble and American Eagle Outfitters. Wall Street reacted sharply, sending UPS stock down nine point five percent on fears of massive disruption to the freight transportation industry. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we kick things off with a historic technological breakthrough as Houston-based Bot Auto has officially completed the first fully humanless, over-the-road commercial truckload in American history. The autonomous tractor hauled commercial freight 231 miles across Texas without a safety driver, remote operator, or in-cab observer, achieving a remarkably low cost per mile of just $1.89 compared to the industry average of $2.26. Bot Auto operates as a trucking carrier using its Transportation as a Service model with a fleet of 12 tractors and owned and leased trailers. Next, we explore the less-than-truckload sector where XPO is absolutely crushing Wall Street expectations and aggressively winning profitable market share with first-quarter earnings that beat consensus by 13 cents. The Greenwich, Connecticut-based logistics giant reported consolidated revenue of $2.1 billion, up 7% year over year and significantly ahead of analyst forecasts. XPO's LTL unit posted an impressive 83.9% adjusted operating ratio, defying normal seasonal deterioration patterns and improving 200 basis points year over year. Finally, we cover the regulatory battle over the proposed transcontinental rail mega-merger as Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern submitted an amended merger application to the Surface Transportation Board after their initial filing was rejected as incomplete in January. The revised application now projects the combined railroad will shift 2.1 million truckloads annually from highway to rail, saving shippers an estimated $3.5 billion per year, and will require 1,200 net new union jobs by the third year of the merger. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we kick things off with a historic technological breakthrough as Houston-based Bot Auto has officially completed the first fully humanless, over-the-road commercial truckload in American history. The autonomous tractor hauled commercial freight 231 miles across Texas without a safety driver, remote operator, or in-cab observer, achieving a remarkably low cost per mile of just $1.89 compared to the industry average of $2.26. Bot Auto operates as a trucking carrier using its Transportation as a Service model with a fleet of 12 tractors and owned and leased trailers. Next, we explore the less-than-truckload sector where XPO is absolutely crushing Wall Street expectations and aggressively winning profitable market share with first-quarter earnings that beat consensus by 13 cents. The Greenwich, Connecticut-based logistics giant reported consolidated revenue of $2.1 billion, up 7% year over year and significantly ahead of analyst forecasts. XPO's LTL unit posted an impressive 83.9% adjusted operating ratio, defying normal seasonal deterioration patterns and improving 200 basis points year over year. Finally, we cover the regulatory battle over the proposed transcontinental rail mega-merger as Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern submitted an amended merger application to the Surface Transportation Board after their initial filing was rejected as incomplete in January. The revised application now projects the combined railroad will shift 2.1 million truckloads annually from highway to rail, saving shippers an estimated $3.5 billion per year, and will require 1,200 net new union jobs by the third year of the merger. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thousands of acres are burning across the Southeast as dry weather persists.Without rain, new fires are burning in North Carolina and South Carolina. Low humidity and gusty winds are making it easy for fires to start and spread.A look at your forecast shows some rain is finally on the way, but with such a deficit, the drought conditions will continue. That's why some cities and counties have already begun drought restrictionsIn this episode of the Carolina Weather Group, we sit down with Corey Davis from the NC State Climate Office and our panel of experts to discuss the "angry bear" of a drought that has been building since last fall. With parts of North Carolina nearly 17 inches below normal rainfall, we are seeing record-breaking dryness that hasn't been felt in some areas since 1911.In this update, we cover:Active Wildfires: Latest updates on the County Line Fire (Avery/Mitchell County), the 30,000-acre Pineland Road Fire in Georgia, and fires impacting Myrtle Beach and the Midlands.Record Drought: Why April 2026 is on track to be one of the driest on record for Charlotte and Raleigh.Water Restrictions: How local municipalities like Monroe and Charlotte are reacting to falling lake and streamflow levels.The Helene Factor: How downed timber from Helene continues to fuel wildfires in the mountains 18 months later.The Forecast: Meteorologist Frank Strait breaks down when (and if) we will see enough rain to "stop the bleeding".A Beacon of Hope: We also discuss a major infrastructure milestone—the first Norfolk Southern train returning to Asheville from the east since Helene. Joseph Navin reports.

In this episode, we dive into the latest freight market shifts, starting with major shipper groups demanding transparency in the proposed mega-merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. We discuss why these organizations are petitioning the Surface Transportation Board to unseal critical documents to better understand the true impact on freight rail competition. Next, we explore the truckload sector where the industry's largest player, Knight-Swift Transportation, has dialed back its first-quarter financial expectations. Despite severe winter weather and depressed spot rates dragging down margins, executive leadership remains highly optimistic about the long-term fundamentals of the market. Finally, we look at how the gig economy is tackling the multi-billion dollar headache of reverse logistics with Uber Eats' brand new retail returns feature. This innovative service allows consumers to easily return unwanted packages directly from their doorsteps, marking Uber's aggressive expansion into a comprehensive everyday logistics platform. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Autonomy Signals, Grayson Brulte and Rob Grant discuss Ukraine's emerging role in the autonomy economy, the macroeconomic environment for Physical AI, train automation, and accelerating warehouse automation.Ukraine has achieved the largest real-world stress testing of autonomous systems in recorded history, deploying ground and aerial systems for over 22,000 missions in the first three months of the year. AUTNMY AI‘s proprietary OMEGA algorithm assesses that Ukraine's combat data-sharing initiative, which offers allied governments and tech startups access to real battlefield data, is the most underpriced event in the global autonomy economy.Then there is the macroeconomic environment for Physical AI, that is fundamentally more supportive and durable than the hype of the 2017/2018 Industry 4.0 cycle. Today it's all about economics and the return on investment. Unlike previously, companies can now deploy a $250,000 autonomous construction system to replace $180,000-a-year skilled labor cost and achieve an 18-month payback period that is practically immune to interest rate cycles.While that is the Physical AI macroeconomic environment, the rail environment for autonomy is still in flux, despite a recently struck deal between Union Pacific and the American Train Dispatchers Association (ATDA). The deal between Union Pacific and ATDA will see the railroad guarantee lifetime employment for 1,300 current active dispatchers in exchange for supporting a proposed merger with Norfolk Southern and not opposing automation.While the ATDA will not oppose automation as long as the merger closes, the 125,000-member SMART-TD union explicitly excluded automation concessions from their national agreement. With a new agreement coming in 2030, this is the one to watch.While we wait for negotiations in that deal to open in 2029, warehouse automation is currently leading to a 10% increase in rents for automation-ready facilities. Premium, power-dense industrial properties are emerging as a foundational layer in the global autonomy economy.Episode Chapters00:00 AUTNMY AI01:18 Signal 1: Ukraine's Emerging Role in the Autonomy Economy30:57 Signal 2: The Macro Environment for Physical AI55:25 Signal 3: Train Automation Gains Steam in the U.S. (Or So it Appears)1:18:41 Signal 4: Warehouse Automation Accelerates--------About The Road to AutonomyThe Road to Autonomy is the leading applied intelligence platform covering the convergence of automation, autonomy, and the Autonomy Economy.™.Through our podcasts, newsletter, and proprietary market intelligence, we set the narrative for institutional investors, industry executives, and policymakers navigating the convergence of automation, autonomy, and economic growth.Join institutional investors and industry leaders who read This Week in The Autonomy Economy every Sunday. Each edition delivers exclusive insight and commentary on the autonomy economy, helping you stay ahead of what's next.Subscribe today for free: https://www.roadtoautonomy.com/ae/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we dive into the latest freight market shifts, starting with major shipper groups demanding transparency in the proposed mega-merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. We discuss why these organizations are petitioning the Surface Transportation Board to unseal critical documents to better understand the true impact on freight rail competition. Next, we explore the truckload sector where the industry's largest player, Knight-Swift Transportation, has dialed back its first-quarter financial expectations. Despite severe winter weather and depressed spot rates dragging down margins, executive leadership remains highly optimistic about the long-term fundamentals of the market. Finally, we look at how the gig economy is tackling the multi-billion dollar headache of reverse logistics with Uber Eats' brand new retail returns feature. This innovative service allows consumers to easily return unwanted packages directly from their doorsteps, marking Uber's aggressive expansion into a comprehensive everyday logistics platform. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we kick things off by examining the recent strategic tie-up between capacity management platform Parade and the trucking fuel app Mudflap. This partnership embeds digital freight matching directly into an app drivers already use, allowing brokers to instantly push spot loads to a massive pool of independent owner-operators. Next, we shift over to the rails to discuss how the industry plans to win back market share from the trucking sector. According to Norfolk Southern leadership, solving the rail industry's growth problem relies entirely on delivering consistent, highly reliable service to commercial shippers. Finally, we break down J.B. Hunt's first-quarter earnings to understand what they reveal about the broader financial health of the freight sector. Because the logistics giant navigated a highly challenging quarter with compressed revenue yields, analysts are closely watching these results as a critical leading indicator for the spring transportation market. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we kick things off by examining the recent strategic tie-up between capacity management platform Parade and the trucking fuel app Mudflap. This partnership embeds digital freight matching directly into an app drivers already use, allowing brokers to instantly push spot loads to a massive pool of independent owner-operators. Next, we shift over to the rails to discuss how the industry plans to win back market share from the trucking sector. According to Norfolk Southern leadership, solving the rail industry's growth problem relies entirely on delivering consistent, highly reliable service to commercial shippers. Finally, we break down J.B. Hunt's first-quarter earnings to understand what they reveal about the broader financial health of the freight sector. Because the logistics giant navigated a highly challenging quarter with compressed revenue yields, analysts are closely watching these results as a critical leading indicator for the spring transportation market. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In recent decades, the railroad industry has consolidated from more than 40 Class One Rail carriers to only six with disastrous results for the rail workers and the public. Despite a 1990's moratorium on mergers, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are applying for a new merger, the first one to be transcontinental. Workers, passengers, farmers, and other industries are joining forces to stop this merger. Clearing the FOG speaks with Ron Kamikow, a co-founder of Railroad Workers United, about the state of our rail system, the impact of the potential merger and the campaign against it. Kamikow says the UP-NS merger would definitely lead to further consolidation and would disrupt the supply chain at a time when it is already fragile. For more information, visit PopularResistance.org.

In today's episode, we cover the latest developments across air, sea, and rail freight, starting with a major breakthrough in the air cargo sector. We discuss how the Federal Aviation Administration has officially cleared the first-ever Boeing 777-200 passenger-to-freighter conversion, which will provide massive payload capacity and twin-engine fuel efficiency for operators. Next, we shift our focus to the water, where ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have led to new security and transit tolls for commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. We analyze how these new transit levies could add $1 per barrel to crude oil, potentially triggering an aggressive spike in global diesel and bunker fuel prices for carriers already struggling with elevated war risk premiums. Finally, we wrap up with a look at the East Coast, where a long-standing regulatory battle over intermodal rail access has reached a definitive conclusion. The Surface Transportation Board recently awarded Norfolk Southern control of a disputed port rail line, a move expected to streamline complex switching operations, eliminate redundant interchanges, and boost overall intermodal velocity. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, we cover the latest developments across air, sea, and rail freight, starting with a major breakthrough in the air cargo sector. We discuss how the Federal Aviation Administration has officially cleared the first-ever Boeing 777-200 passenger-to-freighter conversion, which will provide massive payload capacity and twin-engine fuel efficiency for operators. Next, we shift our focus to the water, where ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have led to new security and transit tolls for commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. We analyze how these new transit levies could add $1 per barrel to crude oil, potentially triggering an aggressive spike in global diesel and bunker fuel prices for carriers already struggling with elevated war risk premiums. Finally, we wrap up with a look at the East Coast, where a long-standing regulatory battle over intermodal rail access has reached a definitive conclusion. The Surface Transportation Board recently awarded Norfolk Southern control of a disputed port rail line, a move expected to streamline complex switching operations, eliminate redundant interchanges, and boost overall intermodal velocity. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam B. is an active-duty police officer in Ohio, a 17-year military veteran, and a former M1 Abrams tanker who deployed to Iraq and Korea. He grew up in the foster care system after being removed from a violent home in Cleveland at age four, was adopted into a rural family that changed his trajectory, and went on to serve in the Army, the National Guard as an MP, work corrections at the Cuyahoga County jail, earn a spot on a SWAT team, and build a career in patrol. This conversation covers a lot of ground. Adam walks through what it was like growing up with 12 siblings in a house that got raided by the DEA. He talks about what drew him to the military, what it felt like to hold a dying child overseas, and why that moment still makes it hard to hold his own kids. He describes working the tenth floor of one of Ohio's roughest jails, responding to a domestic violence murder in front of three children, and why most patrol officers are dangerously undertrained compared to SWAT. Then the conversation turns to East Palestine. Adam was activated with the National Guard and sent to the site of the Norfolk Southern train derailment. He stood 200 yards from a controlled chemical detonation with no protective equipment. He watched a mushroom cloud rise and tasted vinyl chloride in the air. Within weeks, his appendix had to be removed. Three years later, he's dealing with memory loss, vision problems, and symptoms his doctors are still trying to explain. Norfolk Southern spent millions lobbying against the very safety regulations proposed after the disaster.  Help me become undeniable to the NYT: https://www.clearedhotpodcast.com/book

This week's episode dives into the massive ripple effects of the Strait of Hormuz closure, which has resulted in Asia-US West Coast ocean spot rates surging by 29%. We explore how shippers are reacting to severe port congestion in Asian transshipment hubs by aggressively paying premium rates to secure desperately needed capacity for the future. Next, we discuss the recent financial boost for Echo Global Logistics, as debt rating agencies Moody's and S&P Global upgraded the 3PL's outlook from stable to positive. This upgraded outlook follows their acquisition of ITS Logistics, which analysts project will significantly improve Echo's free cash flow and boost its EBITDA by over $114 million. Finally, we cover the staggering $4 billion investment by Mercedes-Benz to upgrade its historic assembly plant in Vance, Alabama by 2030. This massive manufacturing expansion will lock in a vital, long-term pipeline of finished vehicle freight for Norfolk Southern, which handles the plant's inbound and outbound logistics. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode dives into the massive ripple effects of the Strait of Hormuz closure, which has resulted in Asia-US West Coast ocean spot rates surging by 29%. We explore how shippers are reacting to severe port congestion in Asian transshipment hubs by aggressively paying premium rates to secure desperately needed capacity for the future. Next, we discuss the recent financial boost for Echo Global Logistics, as debt rating agencies Moody's and S&P Global upgraded the 3PL's outlook from stable to positive. This upgraded outlook follows their acquisition of ITS Logistics, which analysts project will significantly improve Echo's free cash flow and boost its EBITDA by over $114 million. Finally, we cover the staggering $4 billion investment by Mercedes-Benz to upgrade its historic assembly plant in Vance, Alabama by 2030. This massive manufacturing expansion will lock in a vital, long-term pipeline of finished vehicle freight for Norfolk Southern, which handles the plant's inbound and outbound logistics. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest: Ken Slack, Communications Specialist, VDOT Staunton District Episode Summary Host Janet Michael sits down with VDOT's Ken Slack to get the latest on road construction, pothole season, and a major trail feasibility study affecting the Shenandoah Valley. Recorded on a stormy "Tornado Monday," the two cover everything from orange barrels blowing away in high winds to a nearly 50-mile potential rail trail corridor. Topics Covered I-81 Southbound Widening at Strasburg Project is approximately one-third complete and on schedule Completion target: Fall 2028 New steel beams recently placed for a replacement bridge over Cedar Creek at the Shenandoah/Warren County line A traffic shift onto the new bridge section is expected around August Concrete barriers separate the work zone from traffic for safety Winchester Interstate Improvements Upcoming projects will be bundled into a design-build contract Includes widening and improvements at the Exit 317 interchange (diverging diamond interchange) Project divided into northern and southern segments due to scope Construction still a couple of years away Pothole Season Peak season: late winter through early spring Caused by the freeze-thaw cycle — water seeps into cracks, expands when frozen, contracts when thawed, eventually breaking up the surface VDOT uses hot mix, cold mix, and warm mix patching — cold mix is temporary but can be applied year-round Repeated potholes in the same area may trigger fuller road rehabilitation How to Report a Pothole Online: Search "MyVDOT" — mobile-friendly, easy to use Phone: 800-FOR-ROAD Reports go to real people at a customer service center, who create work orders for the nearest area headquarters Road Salt & Bridge Preservation Salt can cause corrosion in bridges, particularly at seams and joints The Front Royal bridge over the South Fork Shenandoah River (completed ~2017) is the longest jointless structure in Virginia at ~1,900 feet — minimizing salt infiltration and extending its lifespan Rail-with-Trail Feasibility Study Nearly 50-mile former Norfolk Southern rail corridor from Broadway (northern Rockingham County) through Mount Jackson, Strasburg, and Woodstock to Front Royal Study is examining both rail-to-trail conversion and rail-with-trail options (keeping the rail line active alongside a recreational trail) Public meetings in April in Woodstock, Timberville, and Front Royal Online survey also coming in early April Final report will go to the Commonwealth Transportation Board Resources & Links VDOT website: vdot.virginia.gov Report a pothole or road issue: Search MyVDOT Real-time traffic & construction info: 511Virginia VDOT customer service: 800-FOR-ROAD

The $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern railroads would create the first coast-to-coast railroad across 43 states. Danny Munch, economist for the American Farm Bureau Federation, said the big concern is the loss of competitive pressure across the rail system. NAFB News ServiceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rail-freight demand is subdued but stable as economic uncertainty and shifting global trade patterns cloud near-term volume expectations. In this Talking Transports podcast, BNSF Chief Marketing Officer Tom Williams joins Bloomberg Intelligence’s Lee Klaskow to discuss the railroad’s demand outlook. Williams highlights the railroad’s improving service, noting that consistent transit times are key to converting more truckload freight to rail. He also outlines how investments in technology, infrastructure and network efficiency have reduced dwell times and improved velocity across the system. The conversation covers trade volatility, tariff impacts on import flows, the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger and why he’s still celebrating his beloved Indiana Hoosiers’ national championship in college football.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The proposed merger of the Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern railways would leave farmers with fewer transportation options and vulnerable to shipping cost increases at a time when balance sheets are squeezed to the breaking point. NAFB News ServiceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive into Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena's defense of the proposed $85 billion merger with Norfolk Southern, which he claims will vastly improve rail efficiency and convert two million truckloads to rail annually. Despite an initial rejection from the Surface Transportation Board, the rail companies are gearing up to file an updated application this April. Next, we cover the growing legal battle where a coalition of 24 states and major corporations are suing the Trump administration over sweeping 10% import tariffs. Importers like Nintendo and Costco are seeking billions in refunds, arguing that the administration unlawfully bypassed Congress to levy these emergency duties. Finally, we examine how the war in Iran has severely disrupted ocean freight, prompting the world's largest shipping line to terminate all Arabian Gulf voyages. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, MSC is diverting shipments to safe ports and hitting shippers with a mandatory $800 surcharge per container to cover deviation costs. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena's defense of the proposed $85 billion merger with Norfolk Southern, which he claims will vastly improve rail efficiency and convert two million truckloads to rail annually. Despite an initial rejection from the Surface Transportation Board, the rail companies are gearing up to file an updated application this April. Next, we cover the growing legal battle where a coalition of 24 states and major corporations are suing the Trump administration over sweeping 10% import tariffs. Importers like Nintendo and Costco are seeking billions in refunds, arguing that the administration unlawfully bypassed Congress to levy these emergency duties. Finally, we examine how the war in Iran has severely disrupted ocean freight, prompting the world's largest shipping line to terminate all Arabian Gulf voyages. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, MSC is diverting shipments to safe ports and hitting shippers with a mandatory $800 surcharge per container to cover deviation costs. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Tony Hatch, President of ABH Consulting and Sr. Wall Street Transportation Analyst. Together they discuss the current status and potential pros and cons of the proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger, what the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding tariffs under IEEPA means and doesn't mean, a potential 3rd ”Golden Age” of short line railroading, market trends and risks, a look ahead into 2026 and much more. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 66 countries around the world!Mr. Hatch is a graduate of Harvard University and has been a Sr. Transportation Analyst on Wall Street for over 20 years.Tony shares how he went from a degree in History at Harvard to becoming a Transportation Analyst.Mr. Hatch explains the revised STB rules / approval criteria / threshold that the proposed UP & NS merger and all future potential mergers must satisfy.Tony does a deep dive into the potential pros and cons of the proposed UP & NS merger.Don discusses the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding the President's ability to impose import tariffs under IEEPA (the International Emergency Economic Act), what the ruling means, and doesn't mean.Tony gives his opinion and the current status of tariffs and trade wars and their effect on the U.S. economy.Mr. Hatch gives us an update and a look ahead into 2026 not only for the U.S., but for Mexico and Canada as well.Tony gives his thoughts on why he feels a 3rd “Golden Age” of short line railroading may be on the horizon.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.railtrends.com https://www.abhatchconsulting.com

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 26, include: Jacy Todd was convicted of 23 counts of official misconduct and one count of making a false statement under oath for illegally signing off on medical marijuana petition signatures, lawmakers introduce bill aimed at keeping Union Pacific based in Omaha as it seeks to acquire Norfolk Southern, Sen. Jane Raybould proposes requiring governor's office to negotiate in good faith with Nebraska tribes on tax compacts, bill seeks to change Nebraska Hall of Fame rules to allow consideration of former Husker coach Tom Osborne, Kearney voters will decide whether to create Good Life District to fund business and tourism development.

President Trump’s economic vision has centered on a simple but powerful idea, make life more affordable for American families by restoring competition, strengthening supply chains, and putting domestic production first. That vision depends on markets that are dynamic and competitive, not dominated by a handful of massive players with the power to dictate terms. That is why the proposed merger between two of the nation’s largest railroad companies, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, deserves serious scrutiny and ultimately should be denied.

Norfolk Southern and CMA CGM have announced a partnership to launch a new "truck-like" intermodal service connecting the Port of Los Angeles to key Midwest markets. This door-to-door option utilizes high-cube containers to offer the flexibility of trucking while reducing emissions through the rail network. Federal investigators are cracking down on safety violations with a massive sting operation targeting sham CDL training schools across the United States. The FMCSA has issued notices to more than 500 providers accused of using unqualified instructors and fast-tracking unprepared drivers onto the road. FedEx is signaling a major shift in strategy by doubling down on premium surcharges and moving away from subsidized low-cost shipping. The company plans to prioritize high-margin sectors like healthcare and heavyweight goods to drive profitability over volume. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new report reveals that California and Texas accounted for more than half of all U.S. cargo theft incidents last year, with electronics remaining a top target for criminals. Thieves are increasingly utilizing deceptive pickup tactics to steal loads, a trend experts warn is expected to accelerate through 2026. The massive merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern faces another delay as the railroads plan to refile their application with federal regulators later this spring. This postponement comes amidst growing political pressure and concerns from state attorneys general that the deal could stifle competition and raise prices. Shipping giant UPS is moving forward with its restructuring plans by identifying 22 package facilities for closure as it seeks to automate operations and cut costs. The company is also facing legal challenges from the Teamsters Union over its attempt to offer voluntary buyouts to thousands of drivers. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Chuck talks with Lesley Pacey, Senior Environmental Officer at the Government Accountability Project, about the Norfolk Southern disaster that occurred three years ago this month in East Palestine, Ohio, and how the people impacted have been failed by their government. Learn more about GAP: https://whistleblower.org/Their work on East Palestine: https://whistleblower.org/category/east-palestine/Intro/Outro/Transition Music: “Barefoot and Pregnant” by Gwen Levy and the Breakdown https://www.gwenleveyandthebreakdown.com/-----------------------------------------------HELP SUPPORT APPODLACHIA! patreon.com/appodlachia-----------------------------------------------The views and opinions expressed on this show are the personal opinions of the host, Chuck Corra, and do not represent the opinions of his employer. This show is an opinion and commentary show, NOT a news show. This podcast is for entertainment purposes only. Send a textSupport the show

In this episode, we cover the major consolidation in ocean shipping as Hapag-Lloyd agrees to⁠ acquire ZIM Integrated Shipping Services⁠ in a deal valued at $4.2 billion. This acquisition includes the creation of a new entity to manage security-critical vessels and is expected to be finalized by the end of the year. We also discuss the growing political opposition to the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. A coalition of attorneys general is calling on the Department of Justice⁠ to intervene in the deal⁠, arguing that the creation of a rail behemoth will harm competition and drive up costs. Finally, we look at new federal legislation that aims to bring relief to truckers by⁠ capping state fuel taxes⁠ at 50 cents per gallon. States like California and Pennsylvania that do not comply could face significant cuts to their federal highway funding if the bill passes. ⁠Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In February 2023, a Norfolk Southern freight train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, setting off a chemical disaster. Politicians and lawyers promised justice, and the railroad company swiftly settled for a historic $600 million.  Three years later, many victims haven't seen a dime. Where did all that money go? Today on Lever Time, producer Natalie Bettendorf is joined by Lever reporter Katya Schwenk, who scoured court documents and traveled to East Palestine to uncover the toxic secrets behind one of the largest disaster settlements in history. Click here to read Katya's in-depth investigation. Get ad-free episodes, bonus content and extended interviews by becoming a member at levernews.com/join. To leave a tip for The Lever, click here. It helps us do this kind of independent journalism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is your AI strategy ready for scale or headed for failure? In this episode of Technovation, leaders from Norfolk Southern, McCormick & Company, and Vulcan Materials joined us at our Metis Strategy Summit to discuss what it really takes to move from AI pilots to enterprise impact. From AI factories and predictive transportation platforms to hybrid operating models and reward system redesign, this conversation dives into the operational and cultural realities of scaling AI in complex organizations. Key highlights: Why 2026 is shaping up as the “scale or fail” year for AI How to industrialize AI with data platforms and governance Embedding technologists in business functions for contextual impact The critical role of AI literacy and trust Aligning incentives to drive behavioral change

Three years after the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, some of those who joined a successful $600 million class action lawsuit have been paid. But some have not. Also, Gov. Patrick Morrisey pushes for his tax cut and the House of Delegates debates elections and employment bills. The post Some In East Palestine Still Waiting On Train Derailment Settlement Checks, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

Feb. 3, 2026 marked the three-year anniversary of the Norfolk Southern train derailment and chemical disaster in East Palestine, OH—one of the worst industrial disasters in US history. Over the last three years, residents have been exploited and abandoned by Norfolk Southern, the government, opportunistic politicians, sensationalist media outlets, and self-serving attorneys, but we have not forgotten them. On the three-year anniversary of the day that changed their small-town lives forever, TRNN Editor-in-Chief Maximillian Alvarez was on the ground in East Palestine speaking with residents about their lives and needs today. Here is what they said... Additional links/info: Ohio Valley Derailment Mutual Aid Facebook page and fundraiser Chemically Impacted Communities Coalition (CICC) website Golomb Research Group (UCSD) website and East Palestine Health Effects Study website Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, "America's toxic future looks like East Palestine, Ohio, today" (click for a full list of all of Max's East Palestine reporting for TRNN over the last three years) Featured Music: Jules Taylor, Working People Theme Song Credits: Audio Post-Production: Jules Taylor

Feb. 3, 2026 marked the three-year anniversary of the Norfolk Southern train derailment and chemical disaster in East Palestine, OH—one of the worst industrial disasters in US history. Over the last three years, residents have been exploited and abandoned by Norfolk Southern, the government, opportunistic politicians, sensationalist media outlets, and self-serving attorneys. On the three-year anniversary of the day that changed their small-town lives forever, TRNN Editor-in-Chief Maximillian Alvarez was on the ground in East Palestine speaking with residents about their lives and needs today. Here is what they said... Additional links/info: Ohio Valley Derailment Mutual Aid Facebook page and fundraiser Chemically Impacted Communities Coalition (CICC) website Golomb Research Group (UCSD) website and East Palestine Health Effects Study website Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “America's toxic future looks like East Palestine, Ohio, today” (click for a full list of all of Max's East Palestine reporting for TRNN over the last three years)Featured Music: Jules Taylor, Working People Theme SongCredits: Audio Post-Production: Jules Taylor Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-news-podcast--2952221/support.Help us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Follow us on:Bluesky: @therealnews.comFacebook: The Real News NetworkTwitter: @TheRealNewsYouTube: @therealnewsInstagram: @therealnewsnetworkBecome a member and join the Supporters Club for The Real News Podcast today!

It's been three years since a Norfolk Southern “bomb train” carrying toxic chemicals derailed in the small town of East Palestine, Ohio, on the night of Feb. 3, 2023. Three days later, Norfolk Southern pressured local authorities to make the disastrous and completely unnecessary decision to vent five giant carloads of vinyl chloride into a ditch and set the contents on fire, releasing a massive chemical plume into the air, exposing residents in East Palestine and the surrounding areas to deadly toxins in one of the worst industrial disasters in US history. Three years later, residents are still getting sick, many have been financially ruined, they have been abandoned by their government and Norfolk Southern, and forgotten by the public. And, as Katya Schwenk details in a blockbuster new report for The Lever, residents are still waiting for the restitution they were promised from the $600 million settlement that Norfolk Southern agreed to pay to resolve residents' class-action lawsuit over the derailment.Guest:Katya Schwenk is a journalist based in Phoenix, AZ, and a reporter for The Lever. Her reporting and essays have appeared in The Intercept, the Baffler, the American Prospect, and elsewhere.Additional links/info: Katya Schwenk, The Lever / The Real News Network, “Three years later, life in East Palestine, Ohio, is still derailed”Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “America's toxic future looks like East Palestine, Ohio, today”Credits:Audio Post-Production: Alina NehlichBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-news-podcast--2952221/support.Help us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Follow us on:Bluesky: @therealnews.comFacebook: The Real News NetworkTwitter: @TheRealNewsYouTube: @therealnewsInstagram: @therealnewsnetworkBecome a member and join the Supporters Club for The Real News Podcast today!

The freight recession may finally be over as January transportation metrics reveal a market in firm expansion territory. With the overall index hitting 59.6, a convergence of tightening capacity and rising rates suggests the cycle has officially turned. Regulatory pressures are squeezing the driver pool just as Werner Enterprises settles an 11-year-old lawsuit regarding driver wages. This $18 million payout underscores the rising floor for labor costs in an increasingly constrained environment. On the demand side, a surge in Japanese machine tool orders points to a manufacturing rebound later this year. North American orders jumped nearly 30%, signaling that industrial production is gearing up for a strong second half of 2026. Macroeconomic policy could also provide a tailwind if Fed Chair nominee Kevin Warsh shifts focus back to Main Street. His criticism of current monetary strategy suggests relief may be on the way for the industrial and small business sectors. Meanwhile, rail infrastructure is booming with Norfolk Southern customers advancing over $7.7 billion in new projects. Adding to the positive momentum, legal distractions are clearing up for major players following the dismissal of charges against NFI's CEO. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anthony flies solo to unpack the biggest stories in markets and M&A this week. First, a deep dive into the €25B Amsterdam IPO of Czechoslovak Group (CSG), a Czech defense giant capitalizing on Europe's surging military spend. Discover how a 33-year-old CEO is leading one of the region's most consequential listings amid geopolitical shifts. Then, we break down Netflix's bold all-cash move in its battle for Warner Bros., and how earnings guidance is reshaping investor sentiment. Plus: key headlines from Soho House to GSK and mega-mergers in rail and insurance. All in under 25 minutes.(00:00) Flying solo this week & episode overview(01:18) Soho House $2.7B take-private deal(01:49) Boston Scientific $15B acquisition of Penumbra(02:10) GSK $2.2B purchase of RAPT Therapeutics(03:11) Union Pacific & Norfolk Southern $71.5B merger(03:52) Zurich Insurance £7.67B bid for Beazley(04:21) Deep Dive into CSG's €25B Amsterdam IPO(07:17) From scrapyard to global defense giant(09:42) Why CSG is listing now(11:06) Europe's defense boom(14:04) Another IPO: Franco-German tank maker KNDS(15:00) Netflix's revised all-cash bid: Strategy explained(17:00) Netflix Q4 earnings breakdown: Subs, ads, guidance

Host Alex Quarles opens the show with a look at a new Tennessee bill imposing strict penalties on carriers that employ undocumented drivers. The legislation mandates automatic notifications to federal immigration authorities and establishes a $1 million minimum in damages for accidents involving unlawful operators. Federal regulators have halted consolidation plans as the Surface Transportation Board rejected the Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger application for being incomplete. While rival railroads have praised the decision, the companies now have until February 17 to notify the board of their plans to submit the missing market share data. Defying the usual post-holiday slump, the trucking market is holding steady in January with tender rejection rates hitting nearly 10%, the highest level since 2022. Spot rates remain elevated at $2.62 per mile as capacity tightens in key hubs like Chicago, signaling a strong start to 2026 for the industry. Tune in this afternoon at 2 p.m. for a new episode of Loaded and Rolling with Thomas Wasson. Later today, catch the latest Freight Expectations featuring founder Craig Fuller and Armchair Attorney Matthew Leffler for more industry commentary. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Walt Bleser sits down with Jared Hopewell, AVP, Communications & Signals at Norfolk Southern, and Jason Schrader, Assistant Chief Engineer at CSX, to introduce what attendees can expect at the Communications, Signals & Information Technology (CS&IT) Symposium in Jacksonville, FL, March 3–5. The event will feature immersive field trips and presentations that cover the past, present, and future of the industry. If you're involved in rail technology or curious about where the industry is headed, this Symposium is the place to be. They also discuss the collaborative efforts of CS&IT Committees to advance safety signaling, an industry-wide initiative. Key topics include Positive Train Control and the growing role of AI in inspections, efficiency, and day-to-day operations. This is just a preview. Listen now to hear the full story behind the people and ideas driving these innovations and get all the details you need to join the conversation at the Symposium.

Join us for today's freight roundup as we explore the financial maneuvers and technological breakthroughs transforming the logistics landscape. This episode dives into how activist investor Ancora has carved out a niche in the transportation sector, driving leadership shakeups at major companies like Norfolk Southern and Forward Air to boost shareholder returns. We also analyze the 2025 holiday rush, where large parcel carriers significantly improved on-time delivery rates despite facing higher volumes than the previous year. Data reveals that the U.S. Postal Service achieved the largest performance jump, while UPS maintained the highest overall reliability during the peak season. In technology news, we discuss a major milestone in electric infrastructure where Purdue University achieved the first U.S. wireless charging of a heavy-duty truck traveling at highway speeds. This innovative system delivered 190 kilowatts of power to a moving vehicle, a breakthrough that could eventually allow for smaller batteries and increased cargo capacity. Looking at cross-border trade, we profile a Mexican-built logistics startup, WeShip, which has set its sights on U.S. expansion after rapid growth in its home market. The company aims to compete in the concentrated American parcel sector by leveraging software designed by former e-commerce operators to solve real-world shipping pain points. Finally, we address developing concerns in the brokerage space as the R&R Family of Companies faces uncertainty amid executive departures and reports of payment delays. Industry sources warn of potential operational disruptions across the Pittsburgh-based group's subsidiaries, including R&R Express, alongside signals of credit tightening. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices