Belgian shipping group CMB reported a 41 percent rise in first half net profits on Friday after freight markets remained strong, and gave a strong outlook for the rest of the year.
CMB's net consolidated result rose to 127 million euros ($153.1 million) in the first half of 2004 from 91 million euros a year ago.
"The outlook remains very good. (Major operating units) Bocimar and Euronav expect to close the second half of the year with an operating result comparable at least to the first half," CMB said in a statement after Brussels markets closed.
CMB also said it was finalising plans to spin off tanker unit Euronav, adding a decision on whether to go ahead would be taken at a board meeting on September 20.