The container-liners’ profitability snapped a five quarter run of improvements in 1Q 2018 with a downturn driven by falling rates and rising fuel costs. The first assist comes from improving China-outbound rates, most recently shown by Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd raising Trans-pacific rates, which are now 11% above their May 4 trough. Bunker fuel rates meanwhile have declined 3% from the peak of a fortnight ago due to a 6% slide in oil prices ahead. This week’s OPEC meeting and potential U.S. strategic reserve drawdowns may set the course for further reductions. The improvement is only minor ...