Maersk's Evolution and Growth as a Shipping Empire

According to the World Economic Forum, approximately 90% of global trade is transported by ship annually. Of this, 40% consists of commodities such as oil and grain, while the remaining 60% comprises large steel containers filled with various goods like appliances, smartphones, and couches.

One of the world's largest shipping companies, with a fleet of over 670 vessels, transports about one in five of those containers.

Due to pandemic-induced buying and higher freight rates, the company recorded substantial profits in 2022.

Maersk, like its competitors, is facing a variety of obstacles, including Red Sea diversions, a drought at the Panama Canal, and the possibility of a strike by the International Longshoremen's Association, the largest union of maritime workers in North America.

Earlier this week, a vessel crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

Maersk, along with its competitors Hapag-Lloyd and MSC, are facing challenges, and CNBC explores how the company is adapting to ensure future growth.