Because of the increasing emphasis on cheaper and cleaner energy sources, natural gas has become one of the most important commodities for the U.S. economy. The incredible boom in production has led natural gas prices to decline dramatically during the past three years. However, 2017 was a pivotal year, as prices finally recovered in response to strengthening global demand. -Connor DiGregorio, Research Analyst, IBISWorld Inc.

And so the cryptocurrency mania continues, in yet another form.

With the emergence of new digital technologies such as Mobility, Big Data, Internet of Things, Cloud, Business Intelligence/AI, Machine Learning, etc., new and more abundant sources of data are available to improve supply chain planning and execution. Advancing in analytic maturity is the most significant competitive lever in the history of business. Why? Time. Advancing in analytics maturity takes time that many companies aren’t able to make up in a market race. -Rich Sherman, Senior Fellow, Supply Chain Centre of Excellence, Tata Consultancy Services

The automotive industry is on the brink of change with technology driving the shift, shaped by consumer demand, government regulations and environmental pressures. The rise of autonomous cars, electric vehicles and connected automobiles has forced suppliers to produce more high-tech, expensive parts. Businesses that supply these parts, along with the automakers themselves will need to find ways to keep costs down by improving their manufacturing and distribution operations. -Brian C. Neuwirth, VP of Sales and Marketing, UNEX Manufacturing

This just in: People are still shopping in physical stores.