CMB.TECH profit and revenue surge on vessel sales and strong shipping markets

CMB.TECH (NYSE:CMBT) reported a substantial increase in first-quarter profitability and revenue, boosted by elevated spot rates across major commercial shipping routes and significant capital gains from its asset disposal strategy.

The Antwerp, Belgium-based company generated an unaudited net profit of $368.8 million for the three-month period ended March 31, 2026, climbing significantly from the $40.4 million recorded during the same period last year.

Consolidated revenue for the quarter reached $519.6 million, up from $235 million in the first quarter of 2025.

Operating performance grew substantially during the period, with EBITDA hitting $558.3 million compared to $158.4 million in the prior-year quarter.

Basic earnings per share rose to $1.27 for the three-month timeframe.

Financial results were driven by a strong freight market across the group's diversified shipping fleet.

Elevated tanker spot market pricing and solid demand conditions inside the dry bulk sector, particularly for Capesize and Newcastlemax vessels, supported operational revenue.

Corporate earnings were further expanded by the recognition of approximately $267.4 million in capital gains stemming from previously announced vessel divestments.

Management noted that it expects additional capital gains to be booked during the second quarter of 2026 as further scheduled vessel deliveries are completed.

Meanwhile, commercial visibility lengthened during the quarter, with the group's total contract backlog expanding to $3.26 billion.

Backed by the quarterly performance, the Supervisory Board announced its intention to authorize a total cash distribution of $0.64 per share.

The final execution of the payout remains subject to shareholder approval and standard Belgian corporate legal procedures.