World Kinect's stock surged 18.48% intraday on Thursday, as the company reported first-quarter financial results that significantly exceeded market expectations.

The transportation fuels provider posted adjusted earnings per share of $0.75, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $0.31 by a wide margin. Revenue for the quarter reached $9.69 billion, also surpassing the $8.71 billion forecast. 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'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. The company also highlighted its commitment to returning capital to shareholders, having repurchased $75 million of common stock during the quarter.