Bank of America Securities analyst Ken Hoexter has reiterated their bullish stance on NSC stock, giving a Buy rating today.
Ken Hoexter has given his Buy rating due to a combination of factors including Norfolk Southern’s strong operational performance and strategic cost management. The company reported an 8% year-over-year increase in EPS for the first quarter of 2025, surpassing both Hoexter’s and the market’s expectations. Despite flat revenues, Norfolk Southern achieved a significant improvement in its operating ratio, reflecting effective cost controls and operational enhancements under the leadership of COO John ‘Operating Ratio’ ORr.
Additionally, Norfolk Southern demonstrated resilience by recovering from severe weather disruptions and gaining market share, with a notable increase in volumes. The company remains committed to its financial targets, including a 3% revenue growth for the year and substantial cost reductions. Furthermore, Norfolk Southern’s decision to resume its share buyback program and its recovery of insurance funds from a previous accident contribute to its positive outlook, justifying Hoexter’s Buy rating.
In another report released today, Barclays also maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a $290.00 price target.
NSC’s price has also changed moderately for the past six months – from $256.980 to $221.950, which is a -13.63% drop .