Clarkson Plc expects full-year results materially ahead of market forecasts after delivering a record first-half performance boosted by exceptional volatility from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The shipping services group reported an underlying pre-tax profit of £61.5m for the six months to 30 June, up from £39.4m the previous year, with revenues surging to £413.5m from £297.8m. CEO Andi Case cited the record performance as reflecting strong investment in the business and the extraordinary market conditions caused by global conflict affecting trade flows.

The company increased its interim dividend to 35p per share from 33p the prior year. Clarksons noted that full-year results are no longer expected to be second-half weighted as normal, with outcomes now projected to materially exceed market expectations. The firm remains cautious on the outlook, acknowledging elevated instability in the Middle East and the time required for markets to stabilise following geopolitical shifts.