RBC Capital Markets analyst Walter Spracklin upgraded Norfolk Southern Corporation NSC to Outperform from Sector Perform and maintained the price target at $270.
The bullish stance reflects significant improvement expected in operating ratio (>12ppt) and the subsequent meaningful EPS growth.
With expected operational turnaround and EPS growth set to outperform and valuation discounted, the analyst sees the company as an attractive investment opportunity at current levels.
Consequently, Spracklin estimates EPS CAGR of +20% 2024-27 (ahead of consensus +16%) on a 12.6ppt improvement in operating ratio by 2027 (vs. Q1/24).
The analyst expects EPS of $11.74 for FY24, $14.74 for FY25, and $17.55 for FY25.
In April, Norfolk Southern reported a 4% Y/Y decline in the first quarter railway operating revenue, missing consensus estimates.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via TCW Transform Supply Chain ETF SUPP and First Trust Nasdaq Transportation ETF FTXR.
Also Read: Norfolk Southern Shareholders Vote On CEO’s Future, Deny Activist Investor’s Overhaul Plan
Price Action: NSC shares are down 1.78% at $226.51 at the last check Thursday.
Photo via Wikimedia Commons
© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Comments
date | ticker | name | Price Target | Upside/Downside | Recommendation | Firm |
|---|
Trade confidently with insights and alerts from analyst ratings, free reports and breaking news that affects the stocks you care about.
