Port Strike Begins on East and Gulf Coasts

Published On Oct 1, 2024, 12:44 AM

For the first time in nearly 50 years, longshoremen on the East and Gulf Coasts have gone on strike. The walkout by about 45,000 members of the International Longshoremen’s Association is primarily over wages, benefits, and job security. This strike is expected to disrupt trade significantly at some of the busiest ports in the U.S., causing potential shortages and price increases if it continues for an extended period. Both parties failed to reach an agreement on wage increases and the impact of technology on jobs.

Stock Forecasts

The ongoing strike is likely to negatively impact shipping companies and related businesses in the short term due to reduced port operations and possible supply chain disruptions. Investors may want to monitor companies that rely heavily on port operations, as they could experience increased costs and reduced revenues during the strike.

Companies in logistics and freight forwarding may see a short-term positive boost due to increased demand for alternative shipping methods during the strike. Companies that offer trucking or air freight services might benefit from the disruption in maritime transport.

Related News

(Reuters) -U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast ports began reopening on Thursday night after dockworkers and port operators reached a wage deal to settle the industry's biggest work stoppage in nearly half a century, but clearing the cargo backlog will take time. The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) workers union and United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) port operators announced the deal and an immediate end to the strike late on Thursday. Shares in shipping companies in Asia fell heavily across Asia.

Dockworkers are returning to work on Friday after reaching a tentative agreement and Vice President Harris says, "this indicates progress towards a strong contract."

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What to know about International Longshorman's Association President Harold Daggert, the union's chief negotiator as dockworkers strike at ports across the U.S.

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