Norfolk Southern (NSC) Stock Overview
Engages in the rail transportation of raw materials, intermediate products, and finished goods in the United States. More details
| Snowflake Score | |
|---|---|
| Valuation | 2/6 |
| Future Growth | 1/6 |
| Past Performance | 1/6 |
| Financial Health | 2/6 |
| Dividends | 5/6 |
NSC Community Fair Values
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Analyst Price Targets
Norfolk Southern Corporation Competitors
Price History & Performance
| Historical stock prices | |
|---|---|
| Current Share Price | US$311.44 |
| 52 Week High | US$323.37 |
| 52 Week Low | US$236.37 |
| Beta | 1.3 |
| 1 Month Change | 3.05% |
| 3 Month Change | -1.51% |
| 1 Year Change | 29.96% |
| 3 Year Change | 47.45% |
| 5 Year Change | 11.50% |
| Change since IPO | 6,437.52% |
Recent News & Updates
Recent updates
Narrative Update • May 04
NSC: Rail Partnerships And Merger Synergies Will Support Future Infrastructure Appeal
Norfolk Southern's analyst price target has been revised higher to about $332 from roughly $311. Analysts cite updated assumptions for modestly stronger revenue growth, slightly higher profit margins, and a higher future P/E, supported by a recent wave of target increases across major research firms.Seeking Alpha • Apr 24
Norfolk Southern: Watch It, But Union Pacific Is The Better Trade In The Deal Now (Earnings Review)
Summary Norfolk Southern (NSC) now trades in tight correlation with Union Pacific (UNP) due to the pending merger, with deal terms implying $326 per NSC share. NSC’s Q1 2026 results showed flat revenue at $3B, a 1% volume decline, and deteriorating operating ratio, with EPS down 1.5% year-over-year. The standalone valuation for NSC is $213 per share, presenting a poor risk/reward profile given current pricing and the narrow arbitrage spread. UNP is the superior investment choice regardless of deal outcome, as NSC’s risk/reward is skewed and optionality is no longer attractive. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaNarrative Update • Apr 20
NSC: Rail Partnerships And Merger Synergies Will Shape Future Infrastructure Appeal
The analyst price target for Norfolk Southern has been adjusted slightly lower to $311.21 from $312.63, as analysts balance recent target cuts with continued interest in rail infrastructure and potential merger related synergies. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Norfolk Southern reflects a split view, with some firms trimming price targets and others lifting them meaningfully.Narrative Update • Apr 06
NSC: Merger Synergies And Rail Projects Will Shape Future Infrastructure Appeal
The analyst price target for Norfolk Southern has been trimmed by about $1 to reflect a slightly higher discount rate, modest tweaks to revenue growth and margin assumptions, and a mix of recent target cuts and raises across the Street as analysts reassess merger related opportunities and risks. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on Norfolk Southern presents a mix of optimism and caution, with several firms revisiting price targets and views as the Union Pacific merger proposal moves through the regulatory process.Narrative Update • Mar 22
NSC: Merger Synergies And Rail Expansion Will Drive Future Infrastructure Appeal
Analysts have nudged the Norfolk Southern fair value estimate up by about $1 to roughly $314, reflecting slightly higher target multiples and continued focus on long lived rail infrastructure as well as potential merger related synergies highlighted in recent research. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Norfolk Southern reflects a mix of optimism and caution as analysts adjust targets and ratings around the proposed Union Pacific transaction and the broader appeal of rail infrastructure.Narrative Update • Mar 08
NSC: Merger Synergies And Rail Corridor Expansion Will Shape Balanced Future Outlook
Analysts have nudged their blended fair value estimate for Norfolk Southern higher to roughly $313 per share, reflecting modestly adjusted assumptions on growth, margins and P/E multiples. They also highlight potential merger related synergies with Union Pacific and the appeal of rail infrastructure as a long lived, hard to replicate asset base.Narrative Update • Feb 20
NSC: Merger Scrutiny And Corridor Expansion Will Guide Fairly Balanced Rail Outlook
Norfolk Southern's updated analyst price target edges higher to about $308, with analysts pointing to slightly adjusted fair value and discount rate assumptions as they reassess sector risks and recent target cuts across the rail group. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Norfolk Southern reflects a mixed setup, with some firms trimming price targets or ratings while others are modestly lifting their valuation work as they refresh rail sector assumptions.Narrative Update • Feb 05
NSC: Merger Scrutiny And Corridor Expansion Will Shape Fairly Valued Outlook
Analysts have trimmed their price targets on Norfolk Southern by about $4 per share, reflecting slightly lower fair value estimates even as they factor in marginally higher revenue growth expectations, a modestly softer profit margin outlook, and small adjustments to discount rate and future P/E assumptions following recent sector research. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Norfolk Southern clusters around two main themes, where price target cuts are balanced against prior target increases and broader views on the proposed Union Pacific tie up and the freight rail backdrop.Narrative Update • Jan 22
NSC: Merger Scrutiny And New Corridor Will Shape Fairly Valued Outlook
Analysts have nudged their fair value estimate for Norfolk Southern higher to about US$311 from roughly US$309, reflecting slightly updated assumptions on discount rate, revenue growth, profit margin, and future P/E following recent sector research and price target revisions. Analyst Commentary Recent research around the proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger has sharpened how analysts think about Norfolk Southern's valuation, regulatory risk, and long term growth profile.Narrative Update • Jan 07
NSC: Merger Review And Labor Deal Will Shape Fairly Valued Outlook
Analysts have nudged their price target for Norfolk Southern higher to approximately US$309 from about US$308, reflecting small updates to discount rate, revenue growth, profit margin and future P/E assumptions in their models. What's in the News The US Department of Justice has begun investigating Union Pacific's proposed acquisition of Norfolk Southern and is expected to file a formal notice to participate in the Surface Transportation Board review of the deal (CTFN).Narrative Update • Dec 15
NSC: Shares Will Navigate Merger Scrutiny Amid Resilient Earnings Expectations
Analysts have nudged their price target for Norfolk Southern slightly higher, citing a series of upward target revisions across the Street that emphasize resilient 2025 earnings expectations and relatively stable margins, despite modestly softer long term revenue growth assumptions and a cautious backdrop for the broader transports group. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts are leaning into Norfolk Southern's relative earnings resilience, lifting price targets even as the broader transports group remains out of favor.Narrative Update • Nov 30
NSC: Shares Will Pursue Opportunities Amid Merger Review And Industry Headwinds
Norfolk Southern's analyst price target has been modestly increased from $311.50 to $311.68. This reflects analyst optimism in light of higher sector targets, despite ongoing industry challenges such as weak industrial growth and muted rail volumes.Narrative Update • Nov 16
NSC: Shares Will Navigate Merger Uncertainty And Industry Shifts Ahead
The analyst consensus price target for Norfolk Southern was adjusted slightly lower to $311.50 from $311.63, as analysts factor in modestly increased revenue growth expectations. This is offset by a lower profit margin and discount rate, reflecting resilience despite mixed transports sector outlooks.Narrative Update • Nov 01
NSC: Sector Merger Activity And Industry Pressures Will Influence Performance Ahead
Norfolk Southern’s analyst price target has increased substantially, with recent updates reflecting a rise of over $60 per share. Analysts cite resilient earnings expectations and improving industry sentiment despite broader transportation sector pressures.Narrative Update • Oct 18
PSR 20 Transformation Will Unlock Operational Efficiencies And Cost Savings
Analysts have modestly increased their average price target for Norfolk Southern, raising it from approximately $307 to $313 per share. They cite resilient profit margin projections and relatively unchanged earnings outlooks, despite ongoing sector headwinds and uncertainty following the pending Union Pacific merger.Narrative Update • Oct 03
PSR 20 Transformation Will Unlock Operational Efficiencies And Cost Savings
Analysts have increased their fair value estimate for Norfolk Southern by approximately $7 to $307. They cite resilience in 2025 earnings forecasts and upward price target revisions, despite sector underperformance and ongoing merger developments.Narrative Update • Sep 18
PSR 20 Transformation Will Unlock Operational Efficiencies And Cost Savings
Analysts modestly raised Norfolk Southern’s price target to $300.42, driven by the merger premium with Union Pacific and anticipated strategic benefits, but note that regulatory uncertainty and near-term valuation constraints are likely to keep the shares trading sideways until greater clarity emerges. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts note near-term financial upside for Norfolk Southern has become limited after the merger announcement with Union Pacific, as share prices are now close to the proposed deal value and the extended regulatory review period constrains further appreciation.Analysis Article • Jul 25
Norfolk Southern (NYSE:NSC) Has Affirmed Its Dividend Of $1.35
Norfolk Southern Corporation's ( NYSE:NSC ) investors are due to receive a payment of $1.35 per share on 20th of...Analysis Article • Jul 11
Should You Investigate Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) At US$263?
Norfolk Southern Corporation ( NYSE:NSC ) led the NYSE gainers with a relatively large price hike in the past couple of...Analysis Article • Jun 27
Norfolk Southern (NYSE:NSC) Has Some Way To Go To Become A Multi-Bagger
Did you know there are some financial metrics that can provide clues of a potential multi-bagger? Firstly, we'd want to...Seeking Alpha • Apr 22
Norfolk Southern: This Is What CSX Earnings Suggest
Summary Norfolk Southern Corporation's Q1 earnings might outperform CSX Corporation due to fewer operational disruptions and lower costs from infrastructure projects and rerouting expenses. CSX was impacted by infrastructure rebuild projects which could drive more traffic on Norfolk Southern's network. Intermodal volumes increased by 2% for CSX, partly due to tariff-related pull-forwards, indicating potential revenue growth for NSC. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Feb 27
Norfolk Southern: An Undervalued Dividend Stock To Buy Now
Summary Since my previous article, shares of Norfolk Southern have delivered 19% total returns. Volume growth and productivity gains should return the railroad operator to solid growth in 2025 and beyond. Norfolk Southern's debt-to-capitalization ratio meaningfully improved in 2024. The railroad operator appears to be trading at a 7% discount to fair value. Norfolk Southern could be poised for 40%-plus cumulative total returns through 2027. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Feb 18
Norfolk Southern: From Setback To Comeback
Summary Norfolk Southern has shown strong recovery post-derailment, with improved margins and profits, driven by cost savings and increased intermodal traffic. Q4 earnings highlighted a 7% improvement in operating expenses and an 11% increase in operating income, despite a 2% revenue decrease. The company is resuming share repurchases and maintaining a steady dividend, signaling confidence in future growth and balance sheet strength. Trading at a forward PE below 20, Norfolk Southern offers a compelling investment opportunity with expected EPS growth and a dividend yield above 2%. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Dec 31
Norfolk Southern: It's Way More Expensive Than The S&P 500
Summary I sold Norfolk Southern at a 38% profit; shares have since dropped 5.2%, validating my decision. Despite recent earnings looking good, Norfolk Southern's valuation remains high, and the company is less profitable and more indebted than in 2019. The market's growth expectations for Norfolk Southern are excessive, especially given its lower profitability and deteriorating balance sheet. With the 10 Year Treasury yielding more than Norfolk Southern's dividend, the risk-adjusted returns do not justify investing in this stock. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Dec 18
Norfolk Southern: Moving Efficiently Into 2025
Summary Norfolk Southern is currently undervalued, presenting a buying opportunity for investors. NSC's improving balance sheet, infrastructure investments, and expanding intermodal train capacity position it well for future growth. Despite short-term challenges, NSC's positive Q3 2024 results and expected FY 2025 performance indicate strong future demand and revenue growth. Management's cost reduction initiatives and share buyback plans further enhance NSC's attractiveness. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Oct 24
Norfolk Southern: Q3, Superb Profitability And Productivity Improvements
Summary Norfolk Southern's Q3 showed significant operational efficiency improvements at the railroad. Productivity gains, including increased car velocities and reduced fuel expenses, have enhanced profitability and improved the operating ratio. NSC's improved safety measures and reduced accident rates are crucial, especially after the 2023 derailments, bolstering long-term stability. With the major costs of the East Palestine derailment behind, Norfolk Southern can focus on share repurchases and capital improvements, enhancing shareholder value. Buy rating maintained. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Oct 17
Selling Norfolk Southern Corporation
Summary I’m selling my Norfolk Southern shares due to excessive valuation and lower profitability compared to pre-pandemic levels. The company faces significant contractual obligations, with potential risks from elevated interest rates impacting debt refinancing. Financial performance has deteriorated, with revenue and net income down, and long-term debt significantly increased. Current market valuation is high, with Norfolk Southern trading at a premium, indicating overly optimistic growth expectations. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Sep 25
Norfolk Southern's Undeniable Potential: A Turnaround You Don't Want To Miss
Summary I initially considered selling Norfolk Southern Corporation to reduce my portfolio but decided to hold due to its wide moat, promising turnaround potential, and dividend growth. Despite recent struggles, including intermodal weakness and derailments, Norfolk Southern is improving operations, cutting costs, and positioning itself for future growth. In the long term, I expect economic reshoring and efficiency gains to drive strong returns. Norfolk Southern's dividend growth and recovery make it a valuable part of my portfolio. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Aug 21
Norfolk Southern Q2: This Freight Train Is On Track For Long-Term Returns
Summary Norfolk Southern's Q2 was mostly positive in my opinion, with the firm expanding operating income thanks to efficiency improvements at the railroad. The firm's ability to deliver real cost-savings and efficiency improvements in Q2 increases the credibility of their long-term target of an operating ratio below 60%. My base-case valuation suggests shares are fairly valued at present time, which, combined with margin expansion, suggests a long-term opportunity may be present in shares. Some uncertainty still exists regarding macroeconomic conditions, with a recessionary environment potentially placing real strain on Norfolk Southern's revenues. Buy rating issued (upgrade). Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Aug 13
Norfolk Southern: Sit Back, Watch Buybacks Boost Shares
Summary Norfolk Southern is a freight railroad company operating in the eastern USA, shipping merchandise, intermodal units, and coal. The company faced a significant financial impact in 2023 due to a train derailment incident in Eastern Ohio, resulting in decreased net income. Norfolk Southern has a strong economic moat due to factors such as limited competition, barriers to land acquisition, and monopolist status, leading to high margins and returns on equity. By price to earnings and operating cash flow to market cap metrics, NSC is currently trading at a relatively high valuation historically speaking. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaShareholder Returns
| NSC | US Transportation | US Market | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7D | -2.0% | -0.2% | -0.8% |
| 1Y | 30.0% | 12.4% | 27.1% |
Return vs Industry: NSC exceeded the US Transportation industry which returned 12.8% over the past year.
Return vs Market: NSC exceeded the US Market which returned 26.7% over the past year.
Price Volatility
| NSC volatility | |
|---|---|
| NSC Average Weekly Movement | 3.2% |
| Transportation Industry Average Movement | 6.7% |
| Market Average Movement | 7.2% |
| 10% most volatile stocks in US Market | 16.3% |
| 10% least volatile stocks in US Market | 3.2% |
Stable Share Price: NSC has not had significant price volatility in the past 3 months compared to the US market.
Volatility Over Time: NSC's weekly volatility (3%) has been stable over the past year.
About the Company
| Founded | Employees | CEO | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | 19,300 | Mark George | www.norfolksouthern.com |
Norfolk Southern Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the rail transportation of raw materials, intermediate products, and finished goods in the United States. The company transports agriculture, forest, and consumer products comprising soybeans, wheat, corn, fertilizers, livestock and poultry feed, food products, food oils, flour, sweeteners, ethanol, lumber and wood products, pulp board and paper products, wood fibers, wood pulp, beverages, and canned goods; chemicals, including sulfur and related chemicals, petroleum products comprising crude oil, chlorine and bleaching compounds, plastics, rubber, industrial chemicals, chemical wastes, sand, and natural gas liquids; metals and construction materials, such as steel, aluminum products, machinery, scrap metals, cement, aggregates, minerals, clay, transportation equipment, and military-related products; and automotive, including finished motor vehicles and automotive parts, as well as coal. It also transports overseas freight through various Atlantic and Gulf Coast ports; and operates an intermodal network.
Norfolk Southern Corporation Fundamentals Summary
| NSC fundamental statistics | |
|---|---|
| Market cap | US$70.04b |
| Earnings (TTM) | US$2.67b |
| Revenue (TTM) | US$12.19b |
26.2x
P/E Ratio5.7x
P/S RatioIs NSC overvalued?
See Fair Value and valuation analysisEarnings & Revenue
| NSC income statement (TTM) | |
|---|---|
| Revenue | US$12.19b |
| Cost of Revenue | US$6.60b |
| Gross Profit | US$5.59b |
| Other Expenses | US$2.92b |
| Earnings | US$2.67b |
Last Reported Earnings
Mar 31, 2026
Next Earnings Date
n/a
| Earnings per share (EPS) | 11.87 |
| Gross Margin | 45.85% |
| Net Profit Margin | 21.89% |
| Debt/Equity Ratio | 111.6% |
How did NSC perform over the long term?
See historical performance and comparisonDividends
1.7%
Current Dividend Yield45%
Payout RatioCompany Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/05/21 12:36 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/05/21 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 |
| |
| 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
Norfolk Southern Corporation is covered by 40 analysts. 19 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 |
|---|---|
| John Eade | Argus Research Company |
| Daniel Moore | Baird |
| Brandon Oglenski | Barclays |