Benchmark Co. analyst Nathan Martin maintained a Buy rating on Norfolk Southern (NSC – Research Report) today and set a price target of $265.00.
Nathan Martin has given his Buy rating due to a combination of factors that highlight Norfolk Southern’s resilience and potential for growth. The company reported a first-quarter adjusted EPS that surpassed consensus expectations, even while managing significant restoration costs from multiple storms. This demonstrates NSC’s operational strength and ability to maintain service metrics under challenging conditions.
Furthermore, Norfolk Southern has reiterated its guidance for the year, projecting revenue growth and operational improvements, despite acknowledging macroeconomic uncertainties. The company is successfully gaining market share and achieving productivity gains, which bolster confidence in its financial targets. Additionally, NSC’s strategic focus on controlling expenses and capitalizing on market opportunities, such as strength in the chemicals segment, supports the positive outlook. These factors contribute to the belief that NSC is on track to improve its operating ratio and close the gap with its peers, justifying the Buy rating and the $265 price target.
In another report released today, Barclays also maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a $290.00 price target.