Kirby (KEX) Stock Overview
Operates domestic tank barges in the United States. More details
| Snowflake Score | |
|---|---|
| Valuation | 2/6 |
| Future Growth | 1/6 |
| Past Performance | 4/6 |
| Financial Health | 5/6 |
| Dividends | 0/6 |
KEX Community Fair Values
Create NarrativeSee what 21 others think this stock is worth. Follow their fair value or set your own to get alerts.
Analyst Price Targets
Kirby Corporation Competitors
Price History & Performance
| Historical stock prices | |
|---|---|
| Current Share Price | US$143.42 |
| 52 Week High | US$157.69 |
| 52 Week Low | US$79.52 |
| Beta | 0.83 |
| 1 Month Change | -2.24% |
| 3 Month Change | 14.78% |
| 1 Year Change | 29.41% |
| 3 Year Change | 92.38% |
| 5 Year Change | 132.49% |
| Change since IPO | 30,496.27% |
Recent News & Updates
Seeking Alpha • Jun 11
Kirby Corporation: Time To Lighten Your Shares As Valuation Approaches Its Limit
Summary Kirby Corporation delivered strong Q1 2026 results, with revenue up 7.4% YoY despite oil market volatility. KEX's Distribution and Services segment, especially power generation, is a growing buffer against oil and gas volatility, now comprising 44% of segment revenue. Valuation is nearly fully priced at a 21.98x P/E, with a target price of $148.11 and limited further upside. I downgrade KEX from buy to hold as technicals show emerging selling pressure and the risk-reward balance shifts. Read the full article on Seeking Alpha
Narrative Update • Jun 08
KEX: Raised Earnings Guidance And Buybacks Will Support Future Upside Potential
Analysts have lifted Kirby's price target by $11, citing updated assumptions around discount rates, revenue growth, profit margins, and forward P/E as the key drivers of the change. Analyst Commentary Recent research reports show a cluster of price target increases on Kirby, with multiple firms lifting their estimates by between US$11 and US$25.Narrative Update • May 24
KEX: Buybacks And Raised Earnings Guidance Will Support Future Upside Potential
Analysts have lifted Kirby's blended price target by about $16 to roughly $166 per share, reflecting updated assumptions around discount rates, margins, and a modestly higher future P/E multiple. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research around Kirby clusters around higher price targets, with bullish analysts focusing on how updated modeling around discount rates, margins, and future P/E assumptions affects what they are willing to pay for the stock.Narrative Update • May 07
KEX: Share Repurchases And Raised Earnings Guidance Will Support Upside Potential
Kirby's updated fair value estimate has shifted from $154.00 to about $166.33, reflecting analysts' higher price targets after recent research updates from several major firms. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research has featured several price target increases for Kirby, which feeds directly into the updated fair value estimate.Recent updates
Seeking Alpha • Jun 11
Kirby Corporation: Time To Lighten Your Shares As Valuation Approaches Its Limit
Summary Kirby Corporation delivered strong Q1 2026 results, with revenue up 7.4% YoY despite oil market volatility. KEX's Distribution and Services segment, especially power generation, is a growing buffer against oil and gas volatility, now comprising 44% of segment revenue. Valuation is nearly fully priced at a 21.98x P/E, with a target price of $148.11 and limited further upside. I downgrade KEX from buy to hold as technicals show emerging selling pressure and the risk-reward balance shifts. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaNarrative Update • Jun 08
KEX: Raised Earnings Guidance And Buybacks Will Support Future Upside Potential
Analysts have lifted Kirby's price target by $11, citing updated assumptions around discount rates, revenue growth, profit margins, and forward P/E as the key drivers of the change. Analyst Commentary Recent research reports show a cluster of price target increases on Kirby, with multiple firms lifting their estimates by between US$11 and US$25.Narrative Update • May 24
KEX: Buybacks And Raised Earnings Guidance Will Support Future Upside Potential
Analysts have lifted Kirby's blended price target by about $16 to roughly $166 per share, reflecting updated assumptions around discount rates, margins, and a modestly higher future P/E multiple. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research around Kirby clusters around higher price targets, with bullish analysts focusing on how updated modeling around discount rates, margins, and future P/E assumptions affects what they are willing to pay for the stock.Narrative Update • May 07
KEX: Share Repurchases And Raised Earnings Guidance Will Support Upside Potential
Kirby's updated fair value estimate has shifted from $154.00 to about $166.33, reflecting analysts' higher price targets after recent research updates from several major firms. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research has featured several price target increases for Kirby, which feeds directly into the updated fair value estimate.Narrative Update • Apr 23
KEX: Capital Returns And M&A Capacity Will Shape Balanced Execution Outlook
Kirby's updated analyst price target has shifted from $144.33 to $154.00, reflecting analysts' refreshed views after a series of recent target increases from major research houses. Analyst Commentary Recent research updates show a cluster of higher price targets for Kirby, with several firms lifting their views in quick succession.Narrative Update • Apr 08
KEX: AI Infrastructure Spending And Muted Transport Cycle Will Shape Balanced Outlook
Kirby's analyst price target has moved higher to about $144 from roughly $140, with analysts pointing to adjusted assumptions for revenue growth, profit margins, and future P/E as they refine their views on the company's earnings power. Analyst Commentary Recent research updates point to a cluster of higher price targets for Kirby, with analysts adjusting their models around earnings power, P/E assumptions, and the role of transport exposure in broader portfolios.Narrative Update • Mar 25
KEX: AI Infrastructure And Transport Cycles Will Shape Balanced Infrastructure Exposure Outlook
Narrative Update on Kirby Kirby's consensus analyst price target has moved slightly higher, with recent $2 to $15 increases from several firms reflecting analysts' interest in cyclical transport exposure tied to expected infrastructure spending, data center and power investments, and potential benefits for housing and forest products demand. Analyst Commentary Recent research updates on Kirby center on higher price targets and a clearer framing of how the stock might respond to shifts in transport cycles, infrastructure spending, and capital deployment across data centers, power, housing, and forest products.Narrative Update • Mar 10
KEX: AI Infrastructure And Transport Cycle Will Shape Balanced Medium Term Outlook
Analysts have lifted their price targets on Kirby by up to $15, pointing to renewed interest in transport stocks and expectations that increased infrastructure and data center spending could support the company’s earnings over time. Analyst Commentary Recent research reports show a cluster of higher price targets on Kirby, with analysts focusing on how upcoming spending trends and freight conditions could affect the company’s earnings power and valuation over time.Narrative Update • Feb 24
KEX: AI Infrastructure And Transport Cycle Are Expected To Support Balanced Outlook
Analysts have nudged their average price target for Kirby higher by about $2, reflecting updated views on cyclical transport exposure, potential benefits from infrastructure related spending, and a steady outlook for margins, growth assumptions, and future P/E levels. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research has clustered around higher price targets for Kirby, with several bullish analysts citing sector positioning, capital spending trends, and broader transport data points as key inputs to their revised views.Narrative Update • Feb 08
KEX: AI Infrastructure Spending And Transport Cycle Are Expected To Drive Upside
Analysts have nudged their fair value estimate for Kirby up from US$138.50 to about US$139.67, reflecting recent price target increases that they link to expectations for steadier revenue growth, slightly better profit margins and a modestly lower assumed discount rate. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research has clustered around higher price targets for Kirby, with several bullish analysts updating their models to reflect what they see as a more supportive setup for the business and its sector.Narrative Update • Jan 25
KEX: AI Data Center Demand And Transport Cycle Will Shape Future Setup
Analysts have lifted their price target on Kirby to about $138.50, up roughly $4.80, supported by updated views on revenue growth, profit margins and future P/E following a series of recent target increases from major research firms. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on Kirby points to a generally constructive tone, with several firms lifting their targets and one major upgrade to a Buy rating.Narrative Update • Jan 10
KEX: AI Infrastructure And Transport Setup Will Shape Balanced Future Prospects
Narrative Update Analysts have lifted their implied fair value estimate for Kirby to about $134 from roughly $126, citing higher price targets supported by expectations for AI related data center tailwinds, a healthier transport setup, and modestly improved assumptions for growth, margins, and future P/E multiples. Analyst Commentary Recent research is generally constructive on Kirby, with several firms lifting price targets and, in one case, upgrading the rating.Narrative Update • Dec 25
KEX: Data Center And AI Backlog Tailwinds Will Drive Upside Potential
Analysts have nudged their fair value estimate for Kirby slightly higher, from $125.33 to $125.83, citing improving profit margin expectations and a more favorable risk/reward profile driven by data center and artificial intelligence related backlog tailwinds. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research reflects a generally constructive stance on Kirby, with modest valuation upside framed around accelerating demand from data center and artificial intelligence related projects.Narrative Update • Dec 11
KEX: Data Center And AI Backlog Tailwinds Will Drive Upside
Narrative Update Analysts have nudged their price target for Kirby modestly higher to about $125 per share. They cite a more constructive view on data center driven demand and AI related backlog growth, which they believe offsets recent softness in inland tank barge trends.Narrative Update • Nov 27
KEX: Data Center Demand And Shipping Risks Will Shape Momentum Ahead
Kirby's analyst price target has increased to $128, up from the previous $110. Analysts cite stronger risk/reward dynamics and anticipated backlog growth driven by accelerating data center and artificial intelligence adoption.Narrative Update • Nov 13
KEX: Backlog Expansion From Artificial Intelligence Will Drive Share Momentum
Kirby's analyst price target has increased from $116.17 to $125.33 per share. This change is driven by analysts' expectations of stronger revenue growth from rising demand in data center markets and a growing backlog linked to artificial intelligence adoption.Analysis Article • Nov 04
Further Upside For Kirby Corporation (NYSE:KEX) Shares Could Introduce Price Risks After 26% Bounce
Kirby Corporation ( NYSE:KEX ) shares have had a really impressive month, gaining 26% after a shaky period beforehand...Narrative Update • Oct 29
Inland Barge Utilization Will Remain Resilient Despite Near Term Rate Pressure
Analysts have slightly raised their fair value target for Kirby to $116.17, an increase of about $2. This adjustment reflects a generally positive long-term outlook, despite near-term headwinds cited in recent research.Analysis Article • Oct 29
Here's Why Kirby (NYSE:KEX) Can Manage Its Debt Responsibly
Warren Buffett famously said, 'Volatility is far from synonymous with risk.' It's only natural to consider a company's...Narrative Update • Oct 08
Data Center Demand And Reshoring Will Expand Domestic Marine Markets
Kirby's fair value price target has been raised from $110.80 to $114.17, as analysts acknowledge modest improvements in profit margins. This comes despite signs of softer barge shipments and persistent tariff headwinds.Analysis Article • Oct 05
There's Been No Shortage Of Growth Recently For Kirby's (NYSE:KEX) Returns On Capital
What trends should we look for it we want to identify stocks that can multiply in value over the long term? Firstly...Narrative Update • Sep 23
Data Center Demand And Reshoring Will Expand Domestic Marine Markets
Kirby’s consensus price target has been revised down from $115.75 to $110.80, reflecting analyst concerns over potential near-term softness in barge shipments, lower utilization rates, and moderating demand, despite resilient inland activity and positive long-term growth drivers. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts highlight continued strength in inland barge activity, with Q2 volumes up both sequentially and year over year.Narrative Update • Aug 30
Data Center Demand And Reshoring Will Expand Domestic Marine Markets
Despite strengthening inland barge activity and improved utilization supporting Kirby’s growth outlook, analysts have modestly reduced their fair value estimate, lowering the consensus price target from $120.60 to $116.50. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts cite strengthening inland barge activity supporting growth.Analysis Article • Jul 26
Kirby (NYSE:KEX) Has A Pretty Healthy Balance Sheet
David Iben put it well when he said, 'Volatility is not a risk we care about. What we care about is avoiding the...Analysis Article • Jul 14
Kirby Corporation (NYSE:KEX) Not Lagging Market On Growth Or Pricing
With a price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 22.4x Kirby Corporation ( NYSE:KEX ) may be sending bearish signals at the...Analysis Article • Jul 02
Should You Be Adding Kirby (NYSE:KEX) To Your Watchlist Today?
Investors are often guided by the idea of discovering 'the next big thing', even if that means buying 'story stocks...Analysis Article • Jun 20
What Does Kirby Corporation's (NYSE:KEX) Share Price Indicate?
While Kirby Corporation ( NYSE:KEX ) might not have the largest market cap around , it received a lot of attention from...Seeking Alpha • Feb 23
Kirby: Upside From Fueled Performance And Liquidity
Summary Kirby Corporation demonstrates resilience amid market volatility through prudent pricing, cost efficiency, and strategic investments in new barges, stabilizing top-line growth. Despite softer global demand and inflation, KEX's marine transportation segment grew 3.1% YoY, offsetting declines in distribution and services, maintaining stable margins. Strong liquidity, increasing free cash flow, and a solid balance sheet enable KEX to sustain operations and invest without reducing cash reserves. Technical analysis suggests KEX is underpriced with a potential rebound, supported by upward momentum and favorable price ratios, making it a good buy. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Jan 27
Kirby Corp. Q4 Preview: Drill, Baby, Drill Seems Promising, But Early To Tell
Summary Kirby Corporation is expected to report flat y/y revenue growth and a 24% y/y increase in EPS, despite inflationary pressures and seasonal softness. Analysts have revised EPS estimates downward, but Kirby has a strong track record of beating earnings expectations, suggesting potential for an upside surprise. The “drill, baby, drill” strategy under Trump's administration could boost demand for Kirby's transportation services, though the overall impact on oil prices and inflation remains uncertain. Due to political and economic uncertainties, I am not starting a position in Kirby Corporation yet, but will closely monitor upcoming guidance and conference call insights. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Nov 14
Kirby: A Market Leader With Encouraging Growth Prospects
Summary Kirby Corporation is poised for growth, driven by strong marine business pricing, high barge utilization, and favorable new build economics. The Distribution and Services segment benefits from robust demand in data centers, power generation, and a potential Oil & Gas recovery under the Trump administration. Strong pricing momentum and operating leverage should enhance margins, with the company trading at a discount to historical averages, making it a good buy. Read the full article on Seeking Alpha
New Narrative • Aug 28
Optimizing Marine Operations Amidst Challenges Fuels Strong Revenue And Shareholder Value Surge
Continued strength in inland marine transportation, fueled by steady demand and limited barge construction, promises enhanced future revenue and operating margins.Seeking Alpha • Aug 26
Kirby Stock: Favorable Coastal Supply/Demand Dynamics Driving Strong Earnings Growth
Summary Kirby Corporation is benefitting from strong demand leading to increases in margins. Kirby is achieving double-digit earnings growth, which may continue in 2024 and possibly beyond. Kirby's low valuation leaves room for the stock to possibly outperform the broader market. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Jun 13
Kirby Up Strongly On A Multiyear Pricing And Margin Expansion Opportunity
Summary Kirby is leveraging stronger inland and coastal tank barge dynamics, as limited supply growth and increased petrochemical refining activity is driving higher utilization and pricing. Kirby should be set for multiple years of 300bp+ margin improvement on the back of tight inland and coastal barge fundamentals. Increased demand for backup power among industrial, retail, and data center customers is driving strong growth within the D&S business, but this remains a lower-margin segment relative to marine operations. Kirby shares have already enjoyed a big move, but past up-cycles suggest that there could still be upside. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaShareholder Returns
| KEX | US Shipping | US Market | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7D | 1.7% | 1.2% | -2.4% |
| 1Y | 29.4% | 43.7% | 21.5% |
Return vs Industry: KEX underperformed the US Shipping industry which returned 43.7% over the past year.
Return vs Market: KEX exceeded the US Market which returned 21.5% over the past year.
Price Volatility
| KEX volatility | |
|---|---|
| KEX Average Weekly Movement | 3.3% |
| Shipping Industry Average Movement | 6.7% |
| Market Average Movement | 7.3% |
| 10% most volatile stocks in US Market | 16.7% |
| 10% least volatile stocks in US Market | 3.1% |
Stable Share Price: KEX has not had significant price volatility in the past 3 months compared to the US market.
Volatility Over Time: KEX's weekly volatility (3%) has been stable over the past year.
About the Company
| Founded | Employees | CEO | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1921 | 5,233 | David Grzebinski | kirbycorp.com |
Kirby Corporation operates domestic tank barges in the United States. Its Marine Transportation segment provides marine transportation service and towing vessels transporting bulk liquid product, as well as operates tank barges throughout the Mississippi River System, on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and coastwise along three United States coasts, Alaska, and Hawaii. It transports petrochemicals, black oils, refined petroleum products, and agricultural chemicals by tank barges; and operates offshore dry-bulk barges and tugboat units that are involved in the offshore transportation of dry-bulk cargos in the United States coastal trade.
Kirby Corporation Fundamentals Summary
| KEX fundamental statistics | |
|---|---|
| Market cap | US$7.51b |
| Earnings (TTM) | US$359.73m |
| Revenue (TTM) | US$3.42b |
21.3x
P/E Ratio2.2x
P/S RatioIs KEX overvalued?
See Fair Value and valuation analysisEarnings & Revenue
| KEX income statement (TTM) | |
|---|---|
| Revenue | US$3.42b |
| Cost of Revenue | US$2.26b |
| Gross Profit | US$1.16b |
| Other Expenses | US$800.07m |
| Earnings | US$359.73m |
Last Reported Earnings
Mar 31, 2026
Next Earnings Date
n/a
| Earnings per share (EPS) | 6.72 |
| Gross Margin | 33.89% |
| Net Profit Margin | 10.51% |
| Debt/Equity Ratio | 28.8% |
How did KEX perform over the long term?
See historical performance and comparisonCompany Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/06/12 21:56 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/06/12 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/03/31 |
| Annual Earnings | 2025/12/31 |
Data Sources
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. The following data is used in our analysis model to generate this report. Data is normalised which can introduce a delay from the source being available.
| Package | Data | Timeframe | Example US Source * |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Financials | 10 years |
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| Analyst Consensus Estimates | +3 years |
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| Market Prices | 30 years |
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| Ownership | 10 years |
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| Management | 10 years |
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| Key Developments | 10 years |
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* Example for US securities, for non-US equivalent regulatory forms and sources are used.
Unless specified all financial data is based on a yearly period but updated quarterly. This is known as Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) or Last Twelve Month (LTM) Data. Learn more.
Analysis Model and Snowflake
Details of the analysis model used to generate this report is available on our Github page, we also have guides on how to use our reports and tutorials on Youtube.
Learn about the world class team who designed and built the Simply Wall St analysis model.
Industry and Sector Metrics
Our industry and section metrics are calculated every 6 hours by Simply Wall St, details of our process are available on Github.
Analyst Sources
Kirby Corporation is covered by 20 analysts. 5 of those analysts submitted the estimates of revenue or earnings used as inputs to our report. Analysts submissions are updated throughout the day.
| Analyst | Institution |
|---|---|
| Kevin Sterling | Benchmark Company |
| Kenneth Hoexter | BofA Global Research |
| Gregory Lewis | BTIG |