Intermodal rail traffic posted a 5.4% gain in the most recent week bringing the 12 week moving average down to 6.1%. That is a strong reading, but also a 3 month low. The rate of change is clearly on the decline, however, it remains at levels that are still consistent with economic growth.
Cumulative volume of carloads is up 3.7% relative to the same period last year. All in all, rail traffic continues to be a harbinger of a moderately strong economy.
Source: AAR
Mr. Roche is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Discipline Funds.Discipline Funds is a low fee financial advisory firm with a focus on helping people be more disciplined with their finances.
He is also the author of Pragmatic Capitalism: What Every Investor Needs to Understand About Money and Finance, Understanding the Modern Monetary System and Understanding Modern Portfolio Construction.