S&P Global estimates that global businesses will face $1.2 trillion in costs from President Donald Trump's tariffs this year, with two-thirds of the burden falling on consumers. Based on information from 15,000 analysts, the analysis suggests that only a third of the costs will be borne by companies. The tariffs, including a 10% levy on all US imports, have prompted companies to diversify supply chains and onshore production.

Grainger is exiting the UK market after a decade, selling its Cromwell business to Aurelius, a private equity firm, and closing its online-only Zoro UK channel that it launched in 2018. The moves will allow Grainger to focus on North America and Japan, and, pending regulatory approval, will close in the coming months.

AFC Industries has introduced two business units, AFC Tooling and AFC Aerospace & Defense, as part of a broader effort to bring several legacy companies under unified brands. AFC Tooling merges Cline Tool and PF Markey, while AFC Aerospace & Defense combines MTI, CIF, CGG and Askew Marine. The launch simplifies the firm's market presence and aligns acquired businesses to provide greater clarity for customers while maintaining service and expertise.

U.S. homebuilder sentiment reached a six-month high this month, driven by hopes of declining mortgage rates boosting housing demand. The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index rose to 37, its highest since April, but stayed below the 50 breakeven point for the 18th consecutive month. The luxury housing market shows strong demand, but other segments face challenges.

Walmart is deploying millions of ambient IoT sensors across its US supply chain, in collaboration with Wiliot. The sensors, powered by ambient energy, will track pallets, providing real-time data on temperature, location and humidity. The data from these sensors will feed into Walmart's AI systems, enabling smarter, faster inventory decisions and enhanced visibility on product location throughout its vast distribution network.

AI and technology are playing a central role in transforming supply chain management for consumer goods companies as modern platforms now allow companies to conduct real-time scenario planning, automate problem detection and facilitate end-to-end visibility across operations. AI not only identifies and assesses supply chain issues but also streamlines coordination among internal teams and external partners, enabling organizations to adapt quickly and optimize performance even amid persistent disruptions.

B2B marketers are shifting from impression-based strategies to performance-driven outcomes, focusing on relevance and personalization, writes Madison Logic CEO Keith Turco, citing a study by Madison Logic and The Harris Poll indicating that 84% of B2B marketing decision-makers are embracing this trend. AI and agility play crucial roles in this transformation, enabling marketers to optimize campaigns in real time and create personalized experiences at scale, Turco writes.

Global finance leaders have expressed relief at the resilience of the global economy amid policy shocks but remain wary of ongoing uncertainty, particularly due to renewed US-China trade tensions. The International Monetary Fund's Kristalina Georgieva and World Trade Organization chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala have noted that the tensions have not escalated into a broader trade war, and that many countries are strengthening bilateral and regional ties.

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