Presenter: Eric Starks, FTR

An overview of the economic outlook under the new administration, highlighting demand trends and emerging risks in rail finance and equipment. Eric will explore the impact of inflation, tariffs, and infrastructure policies, offering insights to help navigate the changing environment. 

Presenter: Joseph Towers, FTR

Joseph will dive into the latest trends and developments in the rail equipment market, analyzing the Umler System data to provide an overview of monthly market activity. He’ll discuss key performance indicators, market fluctuations, and the factors influencing new car demand and deletes. 

Presenters: Joseph Towers & Jonathan Starks, FTR

The FTR mantra is “the economy generates freight, and freight drives the demand for equipment.” Joseph and Jonathan will discuss how shifts in freight volumes, modal share, and transportation trends are influencing equipment needs now and in the future. 

Presenter: Joseph Towers, FTR

Is Consumer demand and modal competition driving shifts in the need for flat cars and box cars? Joseph will explore whether changes in freight patterns and consumer preferences are impacting the market for these key types of rail equipment or if builders should expect orders to be more closely aligned with replacement cycles. 

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Presenters: Eric Starks, FTR, Jonathan Starks, FTR & Will Geiger, RFC

Join Will Geiger, Jonathan Starks, and Eric Starks as they bridge the gap between finance and freight. This open-format session encourages direct dialogue, providing attendees with the chance to dive deeper into the topics. 

Presenter: Joseph Towers, FTR

The lion’s share of deliveries continues to be concentrated in tank cars and covered hoppers, which has lowered backlogs considerably. Explore how the chemical and agriculture industries are driving demand for new orders of tank cars and covered hoppers. Joseph will examine key market trends and usage patterns as they relate to the future of these car types. 

Presenter: Joseph Towers, FTR

Commodities moving via Gondola and Open-Top Hoppers had a challenging year in 2024 across the board. Hear from Joseph how this secular decline has impacted the backlog and new order environment for these two car families for 2025 and beyond. 

Presenter: Jonathan Starks, FTR

An open forum for all attendees to engage in candid discussions on the pressing issues and opportunities within the rail equipment sector. This session provides a platform for sharing insights, networking, and exchanging ideas in a collaborative and informal environment.