A.P. Moller-Maersk (AMKBY) shares rose in early Copenhagen trading after the shipping company upgraded its profit outlook for this year, supported by solid demand, especially in Asia. The world's No. 2 container carrier said both underlying EBITDA and EBIT ranges were raised above analyst estimates, while free cash flow is also expected to come in better than previously projected.
Maersk now expects global container volume growth of about 4% this year, improving from its earlier 2% to 4% forecast range. The upgrade comes as shipping lines benefit from higher spot container rates, with demand supported by early cargo bookings, Middle East disruptions, and US tariff uncertainty.
Ongoing Red Sea tensions have also pushed vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, lengthening voyages and reducing effective shipping capacity. With Maersk scheduled to report second-quarter results on Aug. 13, investors could be watching whether the stronger first-half momentum continues through the rest of the year.