CSX's Earnings Outlook
CSX (NASDAQ:CSX) will release its quarterly earnings report on Thursday, 2026-01-22. Here's a brief overview for investors ahead of the announcement.
Analysts anticipate CSX to report an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.41.
The announcement from CSX is eagerly anticipated, with investors seeking news of surpassing estimates and favorable guidance for the next quarter.
It's worth noting for new investors that guidance can be a key determinant of stock price movements.
Performance in Previous Earnings
Last quarter the company beat EPS by $0.01, which was followed by a 1.69% increase in the share price the next day.
Here's a look at CSX's past performance and the resulting price change:
| Quarter | Q3 2025 | Q2 2025 | Q1 2025 | Q4 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPS Estimate | 0.43 | 0.42 | 0.37 | 0.42 |
| EPS Actual | 0.44 | 0.44 | 0.34 | 0.42 |
| Price Change % | 2.00 | 0.00 | 1.00 | -3.00 |
Stock Performance
Shares of CSX were trading at $35.51 as of January 20. Over the last 52-week period, shares are up 5.46%. Given that these returns are generally positive, long-term shareholders should be satisfied going into this earnings release.
Analyst Insights on CSX
For investors, grasping market sentiments and expectations in the industry is vital. This analysis explores the latest insights regarding CSX.
Analysts have given CSX a total of 2 ratings, with the consensus rating being Neutral. The average one-year price target is $36.5, indicating a potential 0.69% upside.
Analyzing Ratings Among Peers
The analysis below examines the analyst ratings and average 1-year price targets of Canadian Pacific Kansas, Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific, three significant industry players, providing valuable insights into their relative performance expectations and market positioning.
- Analysts currently favor an Outperform trajectory for Canadian Pacific Kansas, with an average 1-year price target of $107.0, suggesting a potential 195.17% upside.
- Analysts currently favor an Neutral trajectory for Norfolk Southern, with an average 1-year price target of $312.89, suggesting a potential 763.14% upside.
- Analysts currently favor an Neutral trajectory for Union Pacific, with an average 1-year price target of $264.88, suggesting a potential 630.7% upside.
Comprehensive Peer Analysis Summary
The peer analysis summary provides a snapshot of key metrics for Canadian Pacific Kansas, Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific, illuminating their respective standings within the industry. These metrics offer valuable insights into their market positions and comparative performance.
| Company | Consensus | Revenue Growth | Gross Profit | Return on Equity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSX | Neutral | -0.88% | $1.25B | 5.52% |
| Canadian Pacific Kansas | Outperform | 3.16% | $1.34B | 2.00% |
| Norfolk Southern | Neutral | 1.70% | $1.16B | 4.75% |
| Union Pacific | Neutral | 2.51% | $2.90B | 10.65% |
Key Takeaway:
CSX ranks at the bottom for Revenue Growth among its peers. It is in the middle for Gross Profit. For Return on Equity, CSX is at the top among its peers.
Delving into CSX's Background
Operating in the Eastern United States, Class I railroad CSX generated revenue near $14.5 billion in 2024. On its more than 21,000 miles of track, CSX hauls shipments of coal (16% of consolidated revenue), chemicals (17%), intermodal containers (16%), automotive cargo (7%), and a diverse mix of other bulk and industrial merchandise.
Understanding the Numbers: CSX's Finances
Market Capitalization Analysis: With a profound presence, the company's market capitalization is above industry averages. This reflects substantial size and strong market recognition.
Decline in Revenue: Over the 3 months period, CSX faced challenges, resulting in a decline of approximately -0.88% in revenue growth as of 30 September, 2025. This signifies a reduction in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the revenue growth lags behind its industry peers. The company achieved a growth rate lower than the average among peers in Industrials sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 19.35%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 5.52%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 1.61%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 1.54.
To track all earnings releases for CSX visit their earnings calendar on our site.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.