The world’s largest ship broker, Clarkson, has warned that geopolitical tensions and uncertainties caused by war and Donald Trump’s changes to US foreign policy have impacted its revenues, resulting in a nearly 18% drop in its share price on Monday.

Clarkson, listed on London’s FTSE 250 index for mid-sized companies, stated that shipping companies have reduced their rates since the beginning of 2025 due to concerns over the impact of tariffs imposed by Trump on major trading partners.

Tariffs have been imposed on Mexico, Canada, and China, with temporary exemptions on Canada and Mexico. Trump has also threatened high tariffs on the European Union and announced tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports.

Clarkson attributed market softening to political upheaval, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Russia-Ukraine, increased trade tensions, tariffs and sanctions, inflation, and changes in monetary policy worldwide.

The company’s CEO, Andi Case, stated that 2025 began with more uncertainty than usual due to political changes, ongoing regional conflicts, increased trade tensions, tariffs and sanctions, inflation, and changes in global monetary policies.

Despite these challenges, Clarkson recorded a 3% rise in sales to £661 million in 2024 and achieved a record underlying profit of £115 million.

Clairson benefits from disruptions in global shipping, such as attacks by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

The company raised its dividend for 2024 by 7% to 109p per share, marking the 22nd consecutive year of increased dividends, a resilience emphasized by the global financial crisis, Brexit, and the coronavirus pandemic.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/mar/10/shipping-broker-clarksons-trump-turmoil-revenues-shares