Ports

Hapag-Lloyd Raises 2026 Profit Forecast by Over $1bn on Strong Peak Season

Hapag-Lloyd has substantially increased its full-year earnings guidance for 2026, boosting EBITDA and EBIT outlooks by more than $1bn. The increase follows an extended container shipping peak season that has driven robust demand and supported spot freight rate strength. The carrier attributed the upgraded forecast to sustained market conditions and positive rate development, though it cautioned that volatile freight rates and geopolitical tensions introduce significant uncertainty. The improved financial position strengthens Hapag-Lloyd's capacity to acquire Zim's international operations. The German carrier and FIMI Opportunity Funds, an Israeli private equity partner, submitted a revised acquisition proposal. This followed government concerns about network adequacy and financing capability. The updated bid includes establishing Far East-Israel and Israel-North America east coast services, plus two intra-European routes. It also includes doubling reefer capacity and developing independent IT infrastructure for the new Zim Israel entity.