A.P. Moller-Maersk reported stronger-than-expected second-quarter earnings, driven by higher realized freight rates and ongoing congestion at major Chinese ports like Shanghai and Ningbo. The Danish shipping group raised its full-year guidance for the second time in less than three months, with Bernstein analysts noting the company's effective suggestion that rates will remain strong into the second half. Shares closed 9.4% higher, marking their best one-day percentage gain since May last year.

Deutsche Post, the owner of DHL, has seen its shares rally over the past year, leading investors to expect earnings growth. Citi analysts highlighted a strong second-quarter performance supported by tight capacity due to the Middle East conflict. While cutting its recommendation on the stock to neutral from buy, Citi raised its target price to 59 euros from 58 euros, citing that DHL now appears fairly valued.

Hapag-Lloyd's second-quarter results were broadly in line with expectations, though Deutsche Bank analysts remain cautious on the timing of the Red Sea reopening. The container shipping market has shown short-term strength, but the German shipping company's first-half performance was weighed down by operational disruptions, particularly in the first quarter. A large order book for the sector could impact freight rates, and recent threats from the Iran-backed Houthi militia to blockade Saudi ships in the Red Sea add further uncertainty. Shares in Hapag-Lloyd rose 1.87%.