Expert Outlook: Norfolk Southern Through The Eyes Of 8 Analysts
Ratings for Norfolk Southern (NYSE:NSC) were provided by 8 analysts in the past three months, showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
| Bullish | Somewhat Bullish | Indifferent | Somewhat Bearish | Bearish | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Ratings | 0 | 2 | 6 | 0 | 0 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 2M Ago | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Analysts have recently evaluated Norfolk Southern and provided 12-month price targets. The average target is $311.38, accompanied by a high estimate of $340.00 and a low estimate of $296.00. A negative shift in sentiment is evident as analysts have decreased the average price target by 2.96%.
Understanding Analyst Ratings: A Comprehensive Breakdown
The perception of Norfolk Southern by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
| Analyst | Analyst Firm | Action Taken | Rating | Current Price Target | Prior Price Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brian Ossenbeck | JP Morgan | Lowers | Neutral | $296.00 | $301.00 |
| Ariel Rosa | Citigroup | Lowers | Neutral | $300.00 | $317.00 |
| Walter Spracklin | RBC Capital | Lowers | Sector Perform | $320.00 | $325.00 |
| Brandon Oglenski | Barclays | Lowers | Overweight | $320.00 | $340.00 |
| Brian Ossenbeck | JP Morgan | Lowers | Neutral | $301.00 | $303.00 |
| Ariel Rosa | Citigroup | Raises | Neutral | $317.00 | $307.00 |
| Brandon Oglenski | Barclays | Raises | Overweight | $340.00 | $320.00 |
| Richa Harnain | Deutsche Bank | Lowers | Hold | $297.00 | $354.00 |
Key Insights:
- Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Norfolk Southern. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.
- Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Norfolk Southern compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Norfolk Southern's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.
For valuable insights into Norfolk Southern's market performance, consider these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators. Stay well-informed and make prudent decisions using our Ratings Table.
Stay up to date on Norfolk Southern analyst ratings.
Unveiling the Story Behind Norfolk Southern
Class-I railroad Norfolk Southern operates in the Eastern United States. On more than 20,000 miles of track, the rail hauls shipments of coal, intermodal traffic, and a diverse mix of automotive, agriculture, metal, chemical, and forest products.
Financial Insights: Norfolk Southern
Market Capitalization Perspectives: The company's market capitalization falls below industry averages, signaling a relatively smaller size compared to peers. This positioning may be influenced by factors such as perceived growth potential or operational scale.
Revenue Growth: Norfolk Southern displayed positive results in 3M. As of 30 September, 2025, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 1.7%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Industrials sector.
Net Margin: Norfolk Southern's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 22.91% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 4.75%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Norfolk Southern's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 1.6%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Norfolk Southern's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 1.13, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know
Analysts work in banking and financial systems and typically specialize in reporting for stocks or defined sectors. Analysts may attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.