This week's top stories on ShippingWatch

Maersk Line did it again
The Maersk Group presented its annual report for 2013 on Thursday, where business units such as Maersk Line managed to improve their results. A key factor was reduced fuel costs:
Maersk Line achieved 2013 profit of USD 1.5 billion
SeaIntel: Competitors should fear Maersk Line
Here is an overview of the Maersk 2013 annual report

Sulphur regulations, carriers, and the authorities
This week brought the news that European sulphur control measures are still surrounded by uncertainty:
European sulphur control still a ways off
Drones as new weapon against emission violators
Container alliances take center stage
Alliance developments are getting a lot of attention. United Arab Shipping Company is one of a few carriers not part of an alliance, but it may join one before long. ShippingWatch spoke to CEO Jørn Hinge (photo):
SeaIntel: The CKYHE alliance could become even bigger
Jørn Hinge: Alliance must bring clear benefits to UASC
FMC Chairman: Industry seeks consolidation
The past 18 years of container alliances
The EU wants to extend container block exemption

DFDS
DFDS turned a solid profit, but may shut down routes in light of coming sulphur regulations. And the Channel case verdict was postponed:
DFDS made USD 63.3 million profit in 2013
Seven DFDS routes could be shut down
DFDS Channel ruling postponed to early May
Further reading:
J. Lauritzen CEO on 2013: Certainly unsatisfactory
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Pacific Basin's 2013 result dives to a small profit
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