Quite correct. Two seven hour sectors are much more fuel efficient than a single 14 hour sector. But an Anderson accountant would never know that. * [Of course there are other considerations. Landing fees, crew duty limits, handling fees etc.]
And a 7 hour flight, puts the A380 in direct competition with smaller twins that can appeal to the traveller with faster turnarounds and greater frequency of operations. There has to be an appeal to the customer. Many years ago, Airbus wanted to emphasize capacity: ala A380. Boeing wanted to emphasize frequency: ala 787. Airbus is appealing to the airline beancounters. Boeing is appealing to the airline customer. We'll see which one bears out. One flight per day with 500+ pax with maybe one or two intermediate stops and a crushed check-in and waiting area at both end terminals, or a choice of several direct flights per day to and from terminals with a comfortable number of fellow travellers. I know which option I favour. The flight in the middle is just part of the consideration.