FedEx (FDX 8.07%) delivered an earnings beat in a tough operating environment. Investors are pleased with the results, sending FedEx shares up 8% as of 10 a.m. ET.Improved earnings in a difficult environment2023 was a challenging year for the shipping industry. Concerns about the economy caused large manufacturers and retailers to take a cautious approach to inventories, which ate into demand for transportation services.In response, FedEx and other shippers have been focused on costs.That focus paid off in ...