A.P. Moller-Maersk 'A'

DBS raised its target price for Maersk from DKK 14,030 to DKK 17,123 but kept the rating at "hold". The move was justified by unexpectedly strong freight rates in the second quarter, a 22% year-on-year increase in rates, and the expectation that the high rate level could persist until the end of 2026. For 2027, however, DBS sees headwinds from additional ship capacity and a potential reopening of routes in the Red Sea; Maersk had already raised its 2026 annual guidance. » More on de.investing.com

Maersk reported a Q2 net profit of $1.31 billion, more than double last year, on revenue up 20% to $15.76 billion and EBITDA of $2.99 billion, 44% above consensus. The Ocean division benefited from higher freight rates and volumes, prompting Maersk to raise its adjusted EBITDA guidance for 2026 to $10.5–12.5 billion (previously $8–10 billion) and adjusted operating profit to $4.5–6.5 billion (previously $2–4 billion). Analysts lifted price targets, the ongoing buyback program supports the stock, and the news drove the Maersk B share to a new 52-week high. » More on de.investing.com

Maersk shares rose to 20,420 DKK, reaching a 52-week high after the group reported profit growth to 1.31 billion USD and revenue of 15.76 billion USD. The main driver was the Ocean division, whose EBIT climbed to 935 million USD, supported by higher freight rates (an average of 2,746 USD per 40-foot container) and volume gains. JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley raised price targets but each kept the rating at "Underweight"; Maersk raised its full-year outlook for adjusted EBITDA to 10.5–12.5 billion USD and is executing a buyback program of up to 6.3 billion DKK. » More on de.investing.com