Norfolk Southern's Intermodal Volumes Grappling With Near-Term Headwinds
Norfolk Southern is facing near-term headwinds that are impacting its intermodal volumes, despite previous improvements in its operating ratio. The company had shown significant progress in efficiency and pricing execution, achieving a 60.1% operating ratio in 2021. However, recent reports indicate mixed volume outlooks, partly due to tariff actions.
CSX Chief Executive Open to Deal as Rivals Pursue Mega Merger
CSX CEO Steve Angel is open to merger opportunities to create shareholder value, even as the company focuses on improving efficiency and performance. This comes amidst rival mega-merger proposals, such as the one between Union Pacific Corp. and Norfolk Southern Corp., which Angel views as both challenging and potentially opportunistic for CSX. Angel plans to achieve a "continuous improvement" culture within CSX, focusing on cost management and collaborating with staff and unions.
CSX Chief Executive Open to Deal as Rivals Pursue Mega Merger
CSX Corp.'s CEO, Steve Angel, is open to merger discussions to create shareholder value, even as the company focuses on efficiency. This stance comes as competitor railroads like Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are also exploring potential mergers, and after activist investor Ancora Holdings Group invested in CSX advocating for a merger.
The Rail Revolution: Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Aim to Redraw the American Map with $85 Billion Merger
Union Pacific (UNP) and Norfolk Southern (NSC) are pursuing an $85 billion merger to create the first transcontinental U.S. railroad, a move that could redefine American logistics and align with a "Regulatory Pragmatism" policy fostering "National Champions." Despite a recent procedural setback from federal regulators, the companies plan to refile their application by April 30, 2026. The deal promises significant synergies and aims to improve supply chain efficiency but faces opposition from competitors like BNSF Railway and scrutiny over potential monopolistic impacts.
Are Wall Street Analysts Predicting Norfolk Southern Stock Will Climb or Sink?
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) has outperformed both the S&P 500 and the SPDR S&P Transportation ETF over the last year. Despite a Q4 2025 revenue dip, the company saw a 6% rise in adjusted EPS, exceeding expectations. While analysts have a "Moderate Buy" consensus, recent adjustments indicate a slightly more bearish outlook, with the stock currently trading above the mean price target but still offering potential upside.
Is CSX’s US$670 Million Locomotive Upgrade Program Altering The Investment Case For CSX (CSX)?
CSX Corporation has announced a US$670 million locomotive upgrade program with Wabtec, aiming to enhance efficiency, reliability, and technology across its rail operations. This investment, comprising new locomotives, modernizing older units, and integrating fuel-saving digital systems, directly supports the investment thesis that rail remains a critical North American freight backbone and that CSX can improve efficiency despite recent financial pressures. While it targets fuel savings and reliability, the program does not remove risks related to revenue softness and commodity-linked demand volatility.
Jim Ross: Opposition to UP-NS merger grows during pause
Opposition to Union Pacific's proposed merger with Norfolk Southern is increasing while the acquisition remains on hold. Several state attorneys general and other groups have voiced concerns to regulators, citing fears of reduced competition, higher costs, service degradation, and negative impacts on passenger rail services. The Surface Transportation Board is currently reviewing Union Pacific's revised application, with a decision expected to affect various communities and the two remaining major freight carriers, CSX and Norfolk Southern.
Union Pacific CEO explains delay in revised merger filing
Union Pacific's CEO, Jim Vena, explained that the delay in filing their revised merger application with Norfolk Southern was due to federal regulators clarifying data formatting requirements. The STB previously rejected the application as incomplete. Vena addressed criticisms regarding competition, stating that the combined UP-NS would match BNSF's market share and that 75% of growth would come from diverting traffic from trucks, aiming to offer faster, more efficient service similar to the CPKC model.
J.B. Hunt ‘a little bit more positive’
J.B. Hunt management provided upbeat commentary at a recent investor conference, noting that truck capacity has tightened and demand is slightly exceeding earlier expectations. Despite winter storms and regulatory changes, the company believes significant supply attrition has occurred in the trucking market. J.B. Hunt's dedicated segment saw record new customer agreements, and the company remains confident in its intermodal strategy even if the Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger is approved.
Norfolk Southern Union Pacific Merger Reshapes Transcontinental Rail Investment Story
Norfolk Southern (NSC) has merged with Union Pacific, creating what is described as America's first transcontinental railroad, significantly altering the U.S. freight rail industry. This merger, following a mixed 2025 financial performance for Norfolk Southern, aims to enhance network value and operational efficiency, though it also introduces regulatory and integration risks. Investors should monitor regulatory responses, governance plans, and how competitors react to gauge the long-term impact of this strategic consolidation.
What does an $85M railroad merger spanning 50,000 miles have to do with Montana?
A proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, creating a 50,000-mile transcontinental railroad, has drawn concern from Montana's leaders despite neither company being a major player in the state. The primary concern, championed by BNSF Railway and Montana's congressional delegation, is the potential for anti-competitive practices and increased shipping prices for industries like agriculture. Federal regulators initially rejected the merger application, and a lengthy review process is expected if the companies resubmit.
CN productivity efforts to focus on terminals
Canadian National (CN) is concentrating its productivity initiatives on terminal operations, as announced by CEO Tracy Robinson. Chief Operating Officer Patrick Whitehead is leading efforts to optimize terminal processes, which account for about 50% of the railroad's operating labor, aiming for greater fluidity and resource efficiency. Robinson also stated that CN is prepared for future growth, having capacity through previous expansions, reserved equipment, and furloughed employees poised to return.
Ag industry, elected officials continue to raise concerns about proposed railroad merger
The agricultural industry and elected officials continue to express serious concerns about a proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Railroads, despite the Surface Transportation Board (STB) initially rejecting an incomplete application. Critics argue that the merger, if approved, would negatively impact the ag supply chain by reducing competition, increasing prices for shippers, and potentially leading to service disruptions, given that the resulting company would control over 40% of U.S. freight by rail. BNSF Railway also voiced concerns, fearing decreased competitiveness and potential prioritization of the merged company's own shipments over those interchanging from rival lines.
Norfolk Southern Corp's Detroit-Livernois Intermodal Facility To Transition To Fully-Stacked Operation
Norfolk Southern Corp's Detroit-Livernois Intermodal Facility is set to transition to a fully-stacked operation. This development is a strategic move for the company regarding its business products and operations. The article is a brief report from Refinitiv, distributed by Reuters.
According to official sources, Norfolk Southern Corp has officially announced that its Detroit-Livernois intermodal facility in Michigan is scheduled to undergo a major operational transformation on March 16, 2026, upgrading fully to a double-stack operation mo
Norfolk Southern Corp. has announced that its Detroit-Livernois intermodal facility in Michigan will undergo a significant operational upgrade to a full double-stack operation mode starting March 16, 2026. This transformation aims to enhance cargo handling efficiency and site utilization to meet growing logistics demands. The move is expected to strengthen Norfolk Southern's service capabilities and market competitiveness within the intermodal network.
According to official sources, Norfolk Southern Corp has officially announced that its Detroit-Livernois intermodal facility in Michigan is scheduled to undergo a major operational transformation on March 16, 2026, upgrading fully to a double-stack operation mo
Norfolk Southern Corp has announced that its Detroit-Livernois intermodal facility in Michigan will undergo a full upgrade to a double-stack operation mode on March 16, 2026. This transformation aims to significantly enhance cargo handling efficiency and site utilization, strengthening the company's service capabilities and market competitiveness within the intermodal network.
3 Overrated Industrials Stocks We Think Twice About
This article identifies three industrial stocks—ESAB, Norfolk Southern, and Gates Industrial Corporation—as potentially overrated due to stagnant sales, declining margins, or high valuations despite recent price increases. It suggests these companies may not be long-term winners and advises investors to consider alternatives, highlighting their own list of "Strong Momentum Stocks" with a history of market-beating returns.
Norfolk Southern (NSC)’s Downgrade Was Ill-Advised, Days Jim Cramer
Jim Cramer criticized the downgrade of Norfolk Southern (NSC) by analysts at Wolfe Research, arguing it was ill-advised due to the railroad's strong financial performance and improving operational metrics. Cramer highlighted the company's solid dividend, robust freight volumes, and significant cost-cutting efforts as reasons for potential investor confidence. He suggested that the downgrade overlooked the company's fundamental strengths and future growth prospects in the transportation sector.
Norfolk Southern Corporation Stock Update
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) stock has seen significant growth over the past year, with shares rising 23.6% and 10% year-to-date. The company reported an adjusted profit of $3.22 per share, indicating improved profitability despite a 2% revenue decrease. Analyst ratings are mixed, with Baird lowering its price target due to intermodal competition and merger plans, while UBS downgraded to Neutral citing weaker yields and operating ratio.
Norfolk Southern (NSC)'s Downgrade Was Ill-Advised, Days Jim Cramer
Jim Cramer commented that the recent downgrade of Norfolk Southern (NSC) was "ill-advised," despite the railroad giant's shares being up over the past year. NSC's latest earnings showed a rise in adjusted profit per share but a 2% annual drop in revenue. The downgrade followed a target price reduction by Baird and a shift to Hold from Buy by Deutsche Bank, amidst the planned merger with Union Pacific.
Norfolk Southern (NSC)'s Downgrade Was Ill-Advised, Days Jim Cramer
Jim Cramer commented that the recent downgrade of Norfolk Southern (NSC) was "ill-advised," despite the company's recent earnings showing a 2% annual revenue drop. Baird had reduced its price target for NSC, while Deutsche Bank downgraded the stock to Hold following plans of a merger with Union Pacific. Cramer's statement suggests he believes the outlook for Norfolk Southern is stronger than implied by the downgrades.
Norfolk Southern (NSC)’s Downgrade Was Ill-Advised, Days Jim Cramer
Jim Cramer commented that a recent downgrade of Norfolk Southern (NSC) was "ill-advised," despite the company reporting a 2% annual revenue drop alongside an increase in adjusted profit per share. Baird had lowered its price target for NSC to $288 from $293 while maintaining a Neutral rating, and Deutsche Bank downgraded the stock to Hold from Buy due to a planned merger. Cramer's remarks suggest disagreement with the analyst's negative outlook on the railroad giant.
Norfolk Southern’s Stock On The Rails Again: What The Latest Rebound Really Tells Investors
Norfolk Southern's stock has shown a rebound despite past turbulence and the East Palestine derailment, suggesting investors are moving past reputational damage towards operational execution. Wall Street analysts are cautiously optimistic, maintaining "Buy" or "Overweight" ratings for some, while others hold "Neutral" stances, awaiting more consistent earnings. The company's future hinges on sustained progress in cost control, safety, and freight volume trends, with a "grind higher" being the most realistic outlook.
Assessing Union Pacific (UNP) Valuation After Record US$1.2b Locomotive Modernization Deal
Union Pacific (UNP) recently signed a record US$1.2 billion locomotive modernization deal, bringing fresh attention to its valuation. While the stock's fair value of $264.42 suggests it's slightly undervalued at its current price of $262.81, its P/E ratio of 21.8x appears cautious compared to peers. Investors should consider potential risks like regulatory outcomes and freight demand, and further assess the company's long-term prospects.
Ancora Holdings could see multiple ways to win in Warner Bros. fight
Cleveland-based activist investor Ancora Holdings Group is making waves in the Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. takeover fight, advocating for a rejection of Netflix's offer in favor of Paramount Skydance Corp. The firm, known for its strategic activism, seeks "multiple ways to win" in high-profile M&A situations, distinguishing itself through both aggressive public campaigns and behind-the-scenes collaborations. Ancora's activist fund, Bellator, saw a significant gain in 2025, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier activist firm with $11 billion in assets under management.
Norfolk Southern stock hits all-time high at 318.08 USD
Norfolk Southern Corporation's stock has reached an all-time high of $318.08, pushing its market capitalization to $71.41 billion. Despite this achievement and a 25.51% 1-year total return, InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock might be overvalued and in overbought territory. The company recently reported strong Q4 2025 earnings which exceeded forecasts, though UBS downgraded its stock to Neutral amidst concerns about yields and operating ratios, while simultaneously raising its price target.
Canadian National Railway (TSX:CNR) - Stock Analysis
This Simply Wall St analysis provides an overview of Canadian National Railway (TSX:CNR), highlighting its valuation, future growth prospects, past performance, financial health, and dividend reliability. The report indicates CNR is trading slightly below its estimated fair value with anticipated earnings growth, and pays a consistent dividend. It also includes community insights and recent news, noting the company's strong network and operational efficiency.
Union Pacific claims rival railroad delaying trains
Union Pacific (UP) has asked the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to investigate Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) for allegedly delaying UP-Norfolk Southern intermodal trains on the Meridian Speedway. UP claims that CPKC's reimposition of an 8,500-foot train length restriction has significantly increased dwell times for its eastbound intermodal trains. CPKC, however, disputes these claims, arguing that increased dwell times are due to UP's operational choices and that CPKC continues to handle trains efficiently.
How a combined UP-NS railroad would alter market dynamics
A proposed merger between Union Pacific (UP) and Norfolk Southern (NS) would create a massive transcontinental railroad network, raising concerns among some stakeholders about potential rate increases and the disruption of regional competitive balance. While critics fear it could stifle competition, UP and NS argue it would enhance competition against other railroads and trucks. The Surface Transportation Board rejected an initial application, prompting the railroads to fine-tune their proposal for resubmission.
Norfolk Southern stock hits all-time high at 318.08 USD By Investing.com
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) stock has reached an all-time high of $318.08, surpassing its 52-week high, despite InvestingPro analysis suggesting it may be overvalued. The company boasts a 45-year streak of dividend payments and a 1-year return of 25.51%. Recent Q4 2025 earnings exceeded forecasts, though UBS downgraded the stock to Neutral while raising its price target.
Norfolk Southern Warns of Significant Risks if Proposed Mergers Fail or Face Delays
Norfolk Southern Corp (NSC) has identified significant execution risks related to its proposed mergers. The success of these mergers depends on regulatory approvals and timely completion, and failure or delays could lead to stock price declines, substantial termination fees, and negative stakeholder reactions. The company's stock currently has an average price target of $309.25, representing a 1.15% upside potential.
Union Pacific asks STB to probe CPKC’s handling of UP-NS stack trains on Meridian Speedway
Union Pacific has requested the Surface Transportation Board investigate Canadian Pacific Kansas City's handling of UP-Norfolk Southern intermodal trains on the Meridian Speedway, citing deteriorated service and increased dwell times due to CPKC's 8,500-foot train length restriction. CPKC counters that the longer dwell times are a result of UP operating 11,000-foot trains that need to be shortened at Shreveport and that their service is actually faster than contracted. The dispute centers on whether CPKC is violating commitments made during its acquisition of Kansas City Southern, with UP claiming service decline and CPKC asserting UP is attempting to force operational changes for its own convenience.
Canadian National Railway Co. (CNR:CA) TD Securities Maintains “Buy” Rating
TD Securities has reiterated its “Buy” rating for Canadian National Railway Co. (CNR:CA) and maintained a 12-month target price of $164.00. The firm’s positive outlook is based on CN's strong operating ratio, cost structure, diversified freight, and potential for growth from North American industrial activity and pricing power. TD Securities believes CN’s robust free cash flow supports continued investment and shareholder returns, indicating confidence in its earnings growth and valuation relative to peers.
Precision Trading with Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) Risk Zones
This article from Stock Traders Daily discusses precision trading strategies for Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) based on predictive AI. It highlights a strong overweight bias, an exceptional risk-reward short setup, and details various trading strategies including position trading, momentum breakout, and risk hedging, along with multi-timeframe signal analysis. The article provides specific entry zones, targets, and stop-loss levels for different trading approaches.
Wabtec signs $2.5 billion in train deals. Will there be new Erie jobs?
Wabtec Corp. has secured over $2.5 billion in new orders, including a $1.2 billion locomotive modernization contract with Union Pacific, and additional deals with CSX, Norfolk Southern, and New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority. While the impact on the Erie plant's workforce is not yet fully detailed, union representatives are optimistic that a significant portion of the work, including component manufacturing and modernization, will benefit the local economy and potentially increase union jobs. The investments are expected to boost the workforce and continue through 2028.
UNP Stock Surges 12% With A 8-day Winning Spree On Q4 EPS Beat
Union Pacific (UNP) stock has surged 12% over an 8-day winning streak, adding $16 billion to its market cap, following a Q4 2025 EPS beat. Despite this rally, Trefis analysts assess the stock as "Unattractive" due to its moderate operating performance and high valuation. Investors are cautioned against interpreting the surge as a guaranteed opportunity without deeper analysis and are encouraged to seek predictive signals for future gains.
Rail News - CSX, Wabtec sign $670M locomotive pact. For Railroad Career Professionals
CSX announced a $670 million deal with Wabtec Corp. to acquire 100 new Evolution Series locomotives, 50 modernized locomotives, and digital solutions. These upgrades aim to reduce fuel consumption, extend service life, and improve fleet standardization. This agreement follows similar major locomotive upgrade contracts by other Class I railroads, including Union Pacific, CPKC, and Norfolk Southern.
Norfolk Southern Stock Hits 52-Week High This Week. Here’s the Outlook Through 2028
Norfolk Southern (NSC) stock saw a 2% increase this week, hitting a 52-week high near $309, driven by strong Q4 2025 results that exceeded EPS estimates and significant productivity savings. A valuation model suggests an undervalued stock with a target price of $376.61, implying a 22.9% total return over 2.9 years, based on modest revenue growth, operating margins, and exit P/E multiple assumptions. The company's operational progress, consistent dividend, and broader rail sector strength contribute to this positive outlook.
Railroad CSX to spend $670M on more efficient locomotives
CSX announced a $670 million agreement with Wabtec to upgrade its locomotive fleet, acquiring 100 new Evolution Series locomotives, modernizing 50 D9 locomotives, and implementing digital solutions. This initiative aims to enhance fuel efficiency, tractive effort, and reliability, with deliveries beginning in 2026 for new units and 2027 for modernized units. The upgrades are expected to improve network performance and customer service.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORP SEC 10-K Report
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NS) has released its 2025 Form 10-K report, detailing financial performance, business operations, and strategic initiatives, including a planned merger with Union Pacific. The report highlights increased revenues and net income, alongside key operational details across merchandise, intermodal, and coal segments. Challenges such as merger risks, incident-related liabilities from the East Palestine derailment, and regulatory compliance are also addressed.
Lawmakers Raise Concerns Over Ag Shipping Impacts in Proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern Merger
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson and 47 other lawmakers have urged the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to conduct a thorough review of the proposed merger between Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern Railway. Their primary concern is the significant impact this merger could have on agriculture's ability to transport grain to market, emphasizing the need to ensure robust competition and protect customers' interests. The STB previously rejected the companies' initial application as incomplete, prompting Johnson to stress the importance of a rigorous review under the agency's newer merger rules and heightened scrutiny of market concentration.
CSX Corp.: How a 19th-Century Railroad Became a 21st-Century Logistics Platform
CSX Corp. is transforming its traditional railroad network into a data-driven logistics platform by leveraging precision operations and intermodal services. This strategy helps the company compete in a supply chain increasingly focused on AI, decarbonization, and e-commerce, offering a reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to long-haul trucking. Its competitive edge stems from its Eastern U.S. network density, operational discipline, and advanced digital tools, which are expected to drive valuation and shareholder returns.
Canada Post Corp Registered Pension Plan Raises Stock Position in CSX Corporation $CSX
Canada Post Corp Registered Pension Plan significantly increased its stake in CSX Corporation by 131% in Q3, acquiring an additional 40,780 shares to hold a total of 71,918 shares, valued at approximately $2.58 million. This increase in institutional ownership comes despite CSX missing Q4 EPS and revenue estimates, and recent insider selling by executives. The stock is currently trading near its 52-week high with a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts.
CSX Corp.: How a 19th-Century Railroad Became a 21st-Century Logistics Platform
CSX Corp. is transforming itself from a traditional railroad into a data-driven freight platform by leveraging precision operations and intermodal logistics. The company aims to compete in an AI-accelerated and decarbonizing supply chain by offering reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions that blend physical infrastructure with a modern digital interface. These strategic shifts define its product stack and enhance its valuation as a long-term beneficiary of decarbonization policies and corporate ESG commitments.
The Truth About Norfolk Southern Corp.: Why Everyone Is Suddenly Paying Attention
This article examines Norfolk Southern Corp. (NYSE: NSC), analyzing why the railroad stock is gaining attention on social media despite its traditional industry. It discusses the company's financial stability, dividend appeal, and significant risks related to safety incidents and regulatory scrutiny. The piece also compares NSC to its competitor, Union Pacific (UNP), offering a "cop or drop" verdict based on an investor's risk tolerance and long-term strategy.
The Truth About Norfolk Southern Corp.: Why Everyone Is Suddenly Paying Attention
Norfolk Southern Corp. (NYSE: NSC) is gaining significant attention due to its strong financial performance, including consistent cash flow and dividends, alongside ongoing safety controversies and regulatory pressures. The article explores whether the railroad stock represents a solid long-term investment opportunity for those comfortable with its inherent risks or if its recent hype is overblown. It also compares NSC to competitors like Union Pacific, highlighting its potential for a rebound if it successfully navigates its operational and reputational challenges.
Norfolk Southern Stock: Can A Beleaguered Railroad Still Deliver for Investors?
Norfolk Southern (NSC) stock has experienced significant volatility due to a costly derailment, regulatory scrutiny, and a cooling freight market, making its one-year investment performance modest. While the company is focusing on operational streamlining, safety, and cost control, these efforts are challenged by macro headwinds and lingering costs from the derailment. Wall Street analysts largely rate the stock as "Hold," acknowledging its fundamental strength but demanding proof of execution to justify a re-rating.
Technological integration in the merger between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific
The proposed merger between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific, valued at approximately $85 billion, aims to create the first transcontinental railroad in the United States, spanning over 50,000 miles across 43 states. A critical aspect of this merger will be the technological and operational integration of systems, such as unifying traffic control into a single digital platform like NetControl. The integration is expected to reduce bottlenecks, improve safety, and optimize assets, but it also carries risks associated with transporting hazardous materials and the need for continuous investment in technology.
UNION PACIFIC CORP SEC 10-K Report
Union Pacific Corp (UNP) has released its 2025 10-K report, detailing a 1% increase in total operating revenues to $24,510 million and an 8% rise in net income to $7,138 million, driven by core pricing and productivity gains. The report highlights operational improvements, safety initiatives, and strategic plans including a pending acquisition of Norfolk Southern, alongside challenges such as competition and macroeconomic uncertainties. The company focuses on safety, service, efficiency, and leveraging technology while committing to sustainable practices and robust capital management.
REIT Buys Charlotte Class A Office Property For $318M
Cousins Properties, an Atlanta-based real estate investment trust, has acquired a Class A office property in Charlotte, North Carolina for $317.5 million. The property is currently occupied by notable tenants including legal firms K&L Gates LLP and Mayer Brown. Further details are available upon registration for a free trial.
