Financial Results Disappoint but Outlook Improves
Knight-Swift Transportation reported lower third quarter earnings that missed last year’s performance but exceeded reduced Wall Street forecasts. Adjusted earnings per share declined 86 cents to 41 cents but topped expectations by 5 cents. Total revenue dropped 4.5% to $1.9 billion compared to the same quarter last year.
Although financial results were lackluster, management offered optimistic perspectives on the freight environment. CEO Dave Jackson believes the market is approaching an inflection point that could lead to an eventual recovery.
Competitive Pressures are Easing
Jackson noted that aggressive pricing from non-asset brokers appears to be abating as their financing costs rise. He said this dynamic is unsustainable and the abrupt shutdown of digital broker Convoy confirms the trend. With capacity tightening, Jackson expects spot rates to improve seasonally in the fourth quarter.
U.S. Xpress Acquisition Proceeds Faster Than Planned
The integration of U.S. Xpress, acquired in July, is ahead of schedule. Knight-Swift has already achieved $100 million in annualized cost and revenue synergies. The company now believes U.S. Xpress will become profitable in early 2024 and contribute to earnings accretion next year.
Cautious Optimism for the Eventual Freight Rebound
Although short-term challenges persist, Knight-Swift sees positive signs in the freight environment. Easing competitive pressures and sequential improvement in volumes and spot rates point to better conditions ahead. While the timing of a broader recovery is uncertain, the company believes it is poised to capitalize when demand accelerates.
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