What You Need to Know Ahead of Norfolk Southern's Earnings Release

Core Insights - Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) is a leading rail transportation service provider based in Atlanta, Georgia, with a market capitalization of $64.6 billion, transporting various goods through rail and overseas freight [1] Financial Performance - Analysts anticipate NSC will report a diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.89 for the fiscal fourth quarter of 2025, reflecting a 4.9% decrease from $3.04 in the same quarter last year [2] - For the full fiscal year 2025, EPS is expected to be $12.15, which is a 2.5% increase from $11.85 in fiscal 2024, and projected to rise to $13.06 in fiscal 2026, marking a 7.5% year-over-year increase [3] Stock Performance - NSC stock has increased by 19.5% over the past 52 weeks, outperforming the S&P 500 Index's 17.1% gain but underperforming the Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund's 20.2% rise during the same period [4] - The stock's recent performance is attributed to safety and efficiency improvements, despite facing flat volumes and competitive pressures from the Union Pacific Corporation merger [5] Analyst Ratings - The consensus opinion on NSC stock is moderately bullish, with a "Moderate Buy" rating. Among 20 analysts, six recommend a "Strong Buy," 13 suggest a "Hold," and one advises a "Strong Sell" [6] - The average analyst price target for NSC is $310.06, indicating a potential upside of 9.1% from current levels [6]