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Maersk raises 2025 guidance following strong Q2 performance

Maersk raises 2025 guidance following strong Q2 performance

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Danish shipping and logistics giant Maersk has upgraded its full-year 2025 financial outlook after reporting a stable second quarter marked by operational efficiencies and solid segment performance. The company recorded a 2.8% year-on-year revenue increase to USD 13.13 billion and reported EBIT of USD 845 million, despite ongoing pressure on freight rates and global economic volatility.

CEO Vincent Clerc credited the performance to disciplined cost management and the successful implementation of the Gemini Cooperation, which improved network reliability and supported growth in the Ocean business. The new East-West network has boosted shipment volumes and set new reliability standards, with schedule reliability exceeding 90% after the full rollout in June.

Updated outlook

Maersk has revised its global container volume growth forecast to 2–4%, up from its previous estimate of -1% to 4%. Full-year EBITDA is now expected to range between USD 8.0 billion and USD 9.5 billion, while EBIT is projected at USD 2.0 billion to USD 3.5 billion. Free cash flow is anticipated to be at least USD -1.0 billion, with CAPEX guidance for 2024–2026 unchanged at USD 10–11 billion.

The company noted potential impacts from geopolitical risks, particularly disruptions in the Red Sea. Sensitivity analysis showed that changes in freight rates, volumes, bunker fuel prices, or USD exchange rates could significantly influence EBIT.

Maersk returned USD 864 million to shareholders in Q2, including USD 514 million via share buybacks. Capital expenditure rose to USD 1.28 billion, primarily allocated to the Ocean business. Looking ahead, Maersk remains focused on its transition into a fully integrated logistics provider with a strong presence across 130+ countries.

The firm reaffirmed its sustainability goals, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2040 with low-emission fuels playing a central role. Despite global uncertainties, Maersk expressed cautious optimism for the rest of 2025, emphasizing resilience, customer support, and agile supply chain solutions.