Industry Update – Mergers, Traffic, Trends & Forecasts with Eric Starks – Chairman of FTR
Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Eric Starks, Chairman of FTR (Freight Transportation Research Associates). Together they discuss the pending $85 billion dollar Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger, the current status of the U.S. economy, an update on U.S. manufacturing and production including new railcar production, rail traffic, market trends and risks, a forecast for 2026 and much more. We also announce our 2025 Honor our Heroes Award winner! Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!
KEY POINTS:
- The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 57 countries around the world!
- The podcast continues to experience incredible growth in downloads and subscribers.
- Mr. Starks is a graduate of Indiana University and was an Adjunct Lecturer at Indiana University, Kelley School of Business for 4 years, teaching MBA students Transportation and Distribution Strategy, and was instrumental in creating the Indiana University Transportation Board.
- Eric does a deep-dive into our current U.S. economy and GDP and gives us his opinion on whether or not they are where we expected them to be.
- Don and Eric discuss Tariffs, what their intended use is by the current administration, and whether or not they are providing the intended results.
- Eric gives his opinion of the pros and cons of the pending UP and NS merger, and they discuss the recently announced BNSF and CSX partnership.
- Don and Eric do a thorough review of current rail traffic, velocity, dwell times, commodity and car type trends, and more.
- You don’t want to miss Eric’s 2026 forecast!
- Our 2025 – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award winner is……You’ll have to listen to the end of the episode to find out. 😊
- If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!
LINKS MENTIONED:
https://www.americanrailroading.net
https://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com
https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast
Eric Starks
Chairman of FTR
Mr. Starks is a graduate of Indiana University in Bloomington, IN, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. Eric was an Adjunct Lecturer at the Indiana University, Kelley School of Business for 4 years, teaching MBA students Transportation & Distribution Strategy, and was instrumental in the creation of the Indiana University Transportation Board.
Eric began his career in the freight transportation industry with FTR nearly 29 years ago. Having spent his entire career in the freight transportation sector, Eric is a leading researcher in “freight modal share analysis” and forecasting. As Eric’s background includes research in both rail and truck freight movements, as well as asset equipment purchases, he is one of the premier industry forecasters on transportation equipment demand for rail cars, commercial trucks, and trailers.
Eric is frequently called on to speak at Wall Street analyst meetings, association events, and private meetings for his unique ability to communicate with his audiences. Eric’s ability to easily convey how the macro-economy, logistics, freight, and equipment demand impacts their respective businesses, makes him relatable and entertaining.
Eric and his wife have 4 children, and live in Bloomington, IN., where in his off time he enjoys woodworking and going fishing with his youngest.