摘要: |
As many of our informants noted in this issue's "State of the Industry" article, it's especially hard to make any forecasts this year. Now that the initial relief at the news of multiple vaccine development has worn off, it's clear that the economic effects of the pandemic are far from over. While some commodity groups have done better than others, all have felt the effects of the unprecedented coronavirus and lockdowns. Oil is especially uncertain. The article draws attention to the contrast between the news of continued pandemic spread, lockdowns, and the resulting economic repercussions-which are still ongoing-and the many reasons why the waterways industry can look forward to the new year with optimism. China continues to import U.S. corn and soybeans. Farm incomes are up, despite everything. A new administration is promising to act on infrastructure. Some market segments are showing signs of recoverv. |