Jittery Rates, Softening Demand & New Risks Ahead for 2026

This week, Caroline and Lars break down another volatile shift in the market — from weakening global demand to unusual rate distortions and rising geopolitical risks.
In this episode:
• NYFI loaded spot rates for Asia–North Europe and the Pacific
• A rare 20′ > 40′ price inversion on TA Eastbound
• Global demand dropping sharply — and why Asia–Europe is the culprit
• Tariff investigations and the impact on food imports
• Renewed Thailand–Cambodia tensions and supply chain rerouting
• A vessel attack in Bab el-Mandeb — but not the kind you think
• What a return to the Red Sea would do to TEU miles and capacity
A fast, focused update for shippers, NVOs, and anyone watching the 2026 outlook.