World Kinect's stock soared 19.88% in after-hours trading following the release of its first-quarter 2026 financial results, which significantly exceeded analyst expectations.

The transportation fuels provider reported adjusted earnings per share of $0.75, beating the consensus estimate of $0.31 by a wide margin. Revenue for the quarter reached $9.69 billion, also surpassing the $8.71 billion forecast. The company's strong performance was driven by a 20% increase in aviation segment gross profit, aided by a recent acquisition and growth in Europe, and an 86% jump in marine segment gross profit due to higher bunker fuel prices and disciplined risk management.

In a key move that bolstered investor confidence, World Kinect raised its full-year 2026 adjusted diluted EPS guidance to a range of $2.65 to $2.85, up from its previous outlook of $2.20 to $2.40. The company also highlighted its commitment to returning capital to shareholders, having repurchased $75 million of common stock during the quarter.