Here's Why You Should Give CSX Corporation Stock a Miss Now

Core Viewpoint - CSX Corporation is facing multiple challenges that have negatively impacted its investment appeal, including downward earnings revisions, poor stock performance, and operational issues [1][2][6]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-quarter earnings has decreased by 8.8% over the past 90 days, while the estimate for the current year has been revised down by 9.8%, indicating a lack of confidence from brokers [1]. - For the second quarter of 2025, CSX's earnings are expected to decline by 16.3% year over year, and for the full year 2025, a decline of 9.8% is anticipated [7]. Stock Performance - CSX shares have lost 14.2% in value over the past six months, significantly underperforming the transportation-rail industry, which saw a decline of 6.5% [2]. Zacks Rank and Style Score - CSX currently holds a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) and has a Value Score of D, reflecting its unattractiveness as an investment option [6]. Earnings Surprise History - The company has a disappointing earnings surprise history, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the last four quarters, with an average miss of 3.13% [6]. Revenue Challenges - The soft coal market is a primary factor hurting CSX's prospects, with coal revenues falling by 27% year over year in Q1 2025 and coal volumes decreasing by 9% year over year [7]. Operational Issues - CSX is facing significant rail network challenges, including locomotive and crew shortages, which are likely to adversely affect service levels and operational efficiency [8]. Capital Expenditures - Elevated capital expenditures are a concern, with management expecting capex to be approximately $2.5 billion in 2025, adding to the company's financial pressures [9].