Ben Thompson
Highlights
- Experienced founders that have successfully founded International Trading Companies.
- Over 14+ years of Global Trade experience, buying and selling products all over the world.
- Developed innovative cloud software solutions to streamline global trade documentation for Small and Medium Businesses worldwide.
Created the Global Trade Newsletter, to inform and educate over 150K+ subscribers to help them succeed in global trade
About Ben Thompson
Ben is passionate about International Trade, Import/Export, International Shipping and connecting world markets. For the last 14 years Ben has specialized in importing and exporting goods around the world, and creating content and software solutions to help small and medium sized businesses to become successful in global trade.
After facing the many challenges of running their own trading company, in 2016 Ben Thompson and Brandon Boor founded IncoDocs, a new cloud based software tool to help importers and exporters to streamline their global trade documentation. In 2019 IncoDocs secured investment from global shipping line giant Maersk, as they shared their vision to digitize global supply chain processes. Since then Ben and Brandon have grown IncoDocs to provide solutions to companies in over 120 countries.
Additionally, the IncoDocs team continues to provide detailed industry articles, videos, podcasts, guides and tools to help companies thrive in global trade. The IncoDocs YouTube channel has gained over 20K+ subscribers, and had over 1 Million video views. The team are consistently providing useful content to help importers and exporters solve their problems along the supply chain.
Ben and Brandon also created the Global Trade Newsletter, which continues to provides news, resources and helpful content to over 150k+ subscribers.
The IncoDocs team are passionate about global trade and understand the complexities of the global supply chain and continue to create content and solutions to streamline the import export process and drive the future of global trade.
Posts by Ben Thompson
The First Commercial Fossil Fuel-Free Trans-Atlantic Flight
Last updated on December 7, 2023 by Ben Thompson
Virgin Atlantic achieves first commercial fossil fuel-free trans-Atlantic flight using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Richard Branson optimistic, but challenges in SAF production remain.
US Warship Shoots Down Drones in Red Sea In Response to Distress Signals From Merchant Ships
Last updated on December 7, 2023 by Ben ThompsonThe Houthi militants, backed by Iran, have carried out missile attacks in the Red Sea. The US is considering enhancing security measures for commercial ships in the region. USS Mason and USS Carney have intercepted drones launched from Houthi-controlled areas, heightening concerns. Some shipping companies are diverting vessels from the area due to security worries.
Global Merchandise Trade Rebounds But Still Risky Times Ahead
Last updated on November 30, 2023 by Ben ThompsonWTO's Goods Trade Barometer signals a rebound in global merchandise trade, led by automobile and electronic components sales. Despite this, uncertainty persists due to mixed economic indicators and geopolitical tensions. While some sectors show strong performance, others remain stagnant or face challenges, reflecting a complex global economic landscape.
Russia & China Ditch Western Currencies
Last updated on November 23, 2023 by Ben ThompsonRussia and China are shifting trade away from Western currencies, with 95% of transactions now in rubles and yuan due to Western sanctions. Bilateral trade projected to surpass $200 billion this year, creating opportunities for Chinese firms in various sectors.
NYK Line Cargo Ship Hijacked
Last updated on November 23, 2023 by Ben ThompsonThe Houthi rebels in Yemen are designated as a terrorist organization by some countries, including the United States and Saudi Arabia, due to their actions involving violence, including attacks on civilian targets and shipping vessels.
Boom & Bust Times For Shipping Lines
Last updated on November 16, 2023 by Ben ThompsonThe container shipping industry experienced unprecedented profits during the pandemic but now faces looming losses due to oversupply and decreased demand. Companies like Maersk predict significant downturns in financial health. To address these challenges, cost-cutting measures are being implemented, and investments in cleaner technologies are needed. Diversification strategies are also being pursued to mitigate market…
Cyberattack Paralyzes Major Australian Ports
Last updated on November 16, 2023 by Ben ThompsonA cyberattack on DP World has paralyzed Australian ports, causing a backlog of 30,000 containers. Operations partially resumed but ongoing investigations and security efforts are expected to disrupt services further. The incident underscores the economic impact of cyber threats on critical infrastructure.
Sky Titan Emerges: Electric Airship Unveiled
Last updated on November 9, 2023 by Ben ThompsonSilicon Valley witnesses the unveiling of Pathfinder 1, an electric-powered airship funded by Google's Sergey Brin. With advanced drone features, it aims for sustainable aviation and humanitarian missions. LTA Research eyes a fleet for disaster relief and carbon-neutral travel, emphasizing safety and collaboration with the FAA.
TikTok Follows Amazon By Introducing Logistics
Last updated on November 9, 2023 by Ben ThompsonTikTok ventures into e-commerce logistics, mirroring Amazon's integrated model but outsourcing to specialized providers like ShipBob. With 150 million U.S. users, TikTok aims to keep transactions on its platform, leveraging influencers to drive sales. Regulatory hurdles and building consumer trust pose challenges, but TikTok's move signals a strategic push into e-commerce.
Flexport Acquires Convoy’s Tech Amidst Broader Expansion Goals
Last updated on November 2, 2023 by Ben ThompsonFlexport acquires Convoy's technology stack to bolster its position in global logistics. CEO Ryan Petersen emphasizes the move's significance, aiming to create a one-stop-shop for shipping worldwide. Integration of Convoy's trucking network, comprising 400,000 drivers and 80,000 carriers, promises expanded capabilities for Flexport.
The First Commercial Fossil Fuel-Free Trans-Atlantic Flight
Last updated on December 7, 2023 by Ben Thompson
Virgin Atlantic achieves first commercial fossil fuel-free trans-Atlantic flight using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Richard Branson optimistic, but challenges in SAF production remain. Read More »
US Warship Shoots Down Drones in Red Sea In Response to Distress Signals From Merchant Ships
Last updated on December 7, 2023 by Ben ThompsonThe Houthi militants, backed by Iran, have carried out missile attacks in the Red Sea. The US is considering enhancing security measures for commercial ships in the region. USS Mason and USS Carney have intercepted drones launched from Houthi-controlled areas, heightening concerns. Some shipping companies are diverting vessels from the area due to security worries. Read More »
Global Merchandise Trade Rebounds But Still Risky Times Ahead
Last updated on November 30, 2023 by Ben ThompsonWTO's Goods Trade Barometer signals a rebound in global merchandise trade, led by automobile and electronic components sales. Despite this, uncertainty persists due to mixed economic indicators and geopolitical tensions. While some sectors show strong performance, others remain stagnant or face challenges, reflecting a complex global economic landscape. Read More »
Russia & China Ditch Western Currencies
Last updated on November 23, 2023 by Ben ThompsonRussia and China are shifting trade away from Western currencies, with 95% of transactions now in rubles and yuan due to Western sanctions. Bilateral trade projected to surpass $200 billion this year, creating opportunities for Chinese firms in various sectors. Read More »
NYK Line Cargo Ship Hijacked
Last updated on November 23, 2023 by Ben ThompsonThe Houthi rebels in Yemen are designated as a terrorist organization by some countries, including the United States and Saudi Arabia, due to their actions involving violence, including attacks on civilian targets and shipping vessels. Read More »
Boom & Bust Times For Shipping Lines
Last updated on November 16, 2023 by Ben ThompsonThe container shipping industry experienced unprecedented profits during the pandemic but now faces looming losses due to oversupply and decreased demand. Companies like Maersk predict significant downturns in financial health. To address these challenges, cost-cutting measures are being implemented, and investments in cleaner technologies are needed. Diversification strategies are also being pursued to mitigate market volatility. Read More »
Cyberattack Paralyzes Major Australian Ports
Last updated on November 16, 2023 by Ben ThompsonA cyberattack on DP World has paralyzed Australian ports, causing a backlog of 30,000 containers. Operations partially resumed but ongoing investigations and security efforts are expected to disrupt services further. The incident underscores the economic impact of cyber threats on critical infrastructure. Read More »
Sky Titan Emerges: Electric Airship Unveiled
Last updated on November 9, 2023 by Ben ThompsonSilicon Valley witnesses the unveiling of Pathfinder 1, an electric-powered airship funded by Google's Sergey Brin. With advanced drone features, it aims for sustainable aviation and humanitarian missions. LTA Research eyes a fleet for disaster relief and carbon-neutral travel, emphasizing safety and collaboration with the FAA. Read More »
TikTok Follows Amazon By Introducing Logistics
Last updated on November 9, 2023 by Ben ThompsonTikTok ventures into e-commerce logistics, mirroring Amazon's integrated model but outsourcing to specialized providers like ShipBob. With 150 million U.S. users, TikTok aims to keep transactions on its platform, leveraging influencers to drive sales. Regulatory hurdles and building consumer trust pose challenges, but TikTok's move signals a strategic push into e-commerce. Read More »
Flexport Acquires Convoy’s Tech Amidst Broader Expansion Goals
Last updated on November 2, 2023 by Ben ThompsonFlexport acquires Convoy's technology stack to bolster its position in global logistics. CEO Ryan Petersen emphasizes the move's significance, aiming to create a one-stop-shop for shipping worldwide. Integration of Convoy's trucking network, comprising 400,000 drivers and 80,000 carriers, promises expanded capabilities for Flexport. Read More »
