NADA Auto News End-of-Day Recap Monday December 10, 2018

U.S. auto sales have been stronger than expected but as 2018 nears an end, optimism among dealers has all but eroded according to survey results released today. Driving the downturn are worries about rising interest rates, proposed auto tariffs and declining profits, according to the Q4 2018 Cox Automotive Dealer Sentiment Index.
Source: Forbes

Barring a last-minute hitch, two of the world's largest automakers plan to announce a far-reaching alliance shortly after the new year, one that will cover a wide swath of territory and a broad range of technologies, new and old. The deal will serve as something of a jointly played jigsaw puzzle, allowing Ford Motor and Volkswagen to leverage their strengths and offset weaknesses at a time when the global automotive industry is facing not only traditional competitive challenges but the risks posed by massive technological transformation.
Source: CNBC

U.S. stocks pared steep losses Monday after concerns of escalating trade tensions and slowing global growth sent equities reeling last week. Each of the three major indices declined by about 5% by the end of last week.
Source: Yahoo Finance

The North American International Auto Show is staying put at Cobo Center. The show will remain at the downtown Detroit venue through at least June 2026 after signing a seven-year contract Friday, according to a press release. The show also confirmed dates for June 2020, the first year it moves to the summer.
Source: Detroit Free Press