Welcome to the latest edition of The Risk Savvy Report, your go-to source for the latest insights on global supply chain trends to keep you informed and ahead of the curve. We’re highlighting risk signals for January 16 – February 3 across different industries for financial stability, labor challenges, ESG compliance, legal matters, and transportation.
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Top News Across All Industries: Tariffs
Trump and leaders of Canada and Mexico say tariffs will be delayed one month after talks
U.S., Canada, and Mexico have agreed to delay new tariffs for one month to allow for further negotiations. The decision follows discussions on trade policies and supply chain stability, signaling that all three nations are looking to prevent economic disruptions.
Trump Tariff Updates: U.S. Strikes Deals to Pause Tariffs on Canada, Mexico — Live News, Analysis
The White House confirmed that new trade agreements have been reached to temporarily suspend certain tariffs. Industries warn of potential price hikes and supply chain bottlenecks.
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Bankruptcy & Financial Risk
Weekly Bankruptcy Alert January 29, 2025 (For the Week Ending January 26, 2025)
This week’s bankruptcy filings include major retail and industrial players, raising concerns about economic pressures in key sectors.
PayPal Fined for Withholding Funds in Body Shop’s Bankruptcy
PayPal has been fined for allegedly withholding funds owed to a bankrupt body shop, raising concerns about transparency in digital payment platforms and their obligations in financial disputes.
Container Store Gets Court Approval for Bankruptcy Restructuring
The plan that will allow the The Container Store to continue operations while reducing debt.
Study: 2021 Suez Canal blockage resulted in $89 million loss to Maersk Line
A new study quantifies the impact of the infamous Suez Canal blockage, with Maersk Line alone suffering $89 million in losses. The study serves as a warning sign for companies reliant on critical shipping routes.
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Labor Strikes & Workforce
Argentine railway workers walk out in demand of higher wages
Railway workers in Argentina launched a strike demanding wage increases in response to soaring inflation, disrupting national transportation networks and supply chains.
Rail strike disrupts supply chain
A major rail strike is causing delays across multiple industries, with logistics firms scrambling to find alternative transportation solutions.
Boeing Faces Union Probe for Shifting Work to Non-Union Sites
A union probe is underway at Boeing after allegations surfaced that the company shifted work to non-union sites to cut costs, raising questions about corporate labor practices and worker rights.
ESG & Forced Labor
Smouldering materials cause toxic fumes as LA wildfires damp down
Toxic fumes from smouldering materials continue to pose health risks in Los Angeles as wildfires subside, with environmental groups calling for stronger fire prevention measures.
Chinese workers in BYD Brazil factory face abusive labor conditions, investigators say
An investigation into BYD’s factory in Brazil uncovered reports of exploitative labor conditions for Chinese workers, renewing global scrutiny over labor rights in international manufacturing.
Legal experts argue that Los Angeles officials cannot be sued despite years of reliance on teen volunteers in emergency response roles, sparking ethical debates over youth labor in crisis situations.
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Legal
A Russian court has blocked Google from challenging a ₽130 billion fine through U.S. bankruptcy proceedings, escalating tensions between the tech giant and Russian authorities.
Office Printer Mishap Sparks Landmark Gender Pay Discrimination Lawsuit at Apple
An accidental printout of salary data has led to a major gender pay discrimination lawsuit against Apple, marking a landmark case in the ongoing battle for pay equity.
Supply Chain & Transportation
Major I-5 project in Seattle postponed over ‘significant’ funding gap
A crucial infrastructure project in Seattle faces delays due to a funding shortfall, potentially impacting regional transportation and logistics.
Red Sea Stability Could Cut Costs for Singapore Oil Shipments
Improvements in Red Sea security may lead to lower shipping costs for Singapore’s oil industry, a development that could ripple across global energy markets.
Geopolitical
New industry and labour council forms to collaborate on tariff and CUSMA issues
A new council comprised of industry and labor leaders has been established to address ongoing tariff and CUSMA-related concerns, aiming for a more collaborative approach to trade policy.
Here’s How A Tiny Panama Is Giving Sleepless Nights To Washington
Panama’s growing geopolitical influence, particularly in trade and finance, is causing concerns in Washington as the country asserts itself on the global stage.
8 Arrested In $200 Million Smuggling Operation From China To U.S. Via L.A Ports
Authorities have dismantled a massive smuggling network operating through Los Angeles ports, seizing contraband worth $200 million.
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We hope these insights have enhanced your understanding of supplier risk in the global supply chain, making you evermore risk savvy.
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