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Union Pacific Corp. (UNP)
NYSE:UNP
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Union Pacific (UNP) AI Stock Analysis

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UNP

Union Pacific

(NYSE:UNP)

Rating:80Outperform
Price Target:
$257.00
â–²(15.78%Upside)
Union Pacific's overall stock score reflects its strong financial performance, positive earnings call guidance, and strategic corporate event with the merger announcement. The stock shows a fair valuation and potential for growth, with stable dividend returns. Technical indicators are mixed, but the strategic merger provides a strong future outlook.
Positive Factors
Earnings Performance
Union Pacific reported adjusted earnings per share that exceeded both the analyst estimate and consensus due to lower expenses and additional income.
Leadership Impact
CEO Jim Vena has brought very strong leadership to UNP, and that operational performance would be a significant asset for an Eastern carrier.
Merger Potential
Union Pacific has confirmed advanced discussions with Norfolk Southern for a potential business combination, signaling growth ambitions.
Negative Factors
Regulatory Challenges
Any potential deal with Norfolk Southern would face regulatory and customer scrutiny, high hurdles that could be difficult to overcome.
Volume Decline
Management expects a significant air pocket to come later in the quarter, calling for a sequential decline in international IM volumes.

Union Pacific (UNP) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

Union Pacific Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionUnion Pacific Corporation, through its subsidiary, Union Pacific Railroad Company, operates in the railroad business in the United States. The company offers transportation services for grain and grain products, fertilizers, food and refrigerated products, and coal and renewables to grain processors, animal feeders, ethanol producers, and other agricultural users; petroleum, and liquid petroleum gases; and construction products, industrial chemicals, plastics, forest products, specialized products, metals and ores, soda ash, and sand, as well as finished automobiles, automotive parts, and merchandise in intermodal containers. As of December 31, 2021, its rail network included 32,452 route miles connecting Pacific Coast and Gulf Coast ports with the Midwest and Eastern United States gateways. The company was founded in 1862 and is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.
How the Company Makes MoneyUnion Pacific makes money through its core business of rail transportation. The company's revenue is primarily derived from the transportation of freight across its extensive rail network. Key revenue streams include the shipment of goods in sectors such as agricultural products (grains, food, and beverages), automotive (finished vehicles and parts), chemicals (industrial chemicals and plastics), coal (for utilities and industrial customers), and industrial products (construction materials, metals, and forest products). Additionally, its intermodal segment, which combines rail and trucking services to transport shipping containers, plays a significant role in revenue generation. Union Pacific also benefits from strategic partnerships with key players in various industries, enhancing its service offerings and expanding its market reach. The company's profitability is supported by its focus on operational efficiency, cost management, and investment in infrastructure improvements.

Union Pacific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Any
Any
Locomotive Productivity
Locomotive Productivity
Measures the efficiency of locomotive usage, indicating how well the company utilizes its fleet to transport goods. Higher productivity suggests better asset utilization and cost management, impacting profitability.
Chart InsightsUnion Pacific's locomotive productivity has shown a notable recovery from its 2022 lows, rebounding to pre-pandemic levels by late 2023. This improvement suggests operational efficiencies are being realized, potentially driven by strategic investments in technology and infrastructure. However, the slight dip in early 2024 indicates ongoing challenges, possibly from supply chain disruptions or workforce constraints. Investors should monitor how these factors influence future productivity gains and the company's ability to sustain its operational momentum.
Data provided by:Main Street Data

Union Pacific Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Jul 24, 2025
(Q2-2025)
|
% Change Since: -3.91%|
Next Earnings Date:Oct 16, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call reflected strong financial and operational performance, with record earnings and revenue growth, despite challenges in fuel surcharge revenue and the premium and automotive segments.
Q2-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Record Earnings Per Share
Union Pacific reported a second quarter earnings per share of $3.15, with an adjusted EPS of $3.03, up 12% versus last year's adjusted results.
Operational Excellence
The adjusted second quarter operating ratio improved 230 basis points to 58.1%, with records in freight revenue excluding fuel surcharge and workforce productivity.
Strong Financial Performance
Operating income grew to $2.5 billion, a second quarter record, and cash from operations totaled $4.5 billion, up more than $500 million versus last year.
Dividend Increase
Union Pacific announced a 3% dividend increase, marking the 19th consecutive year of annual increases.
Intermodal and Coal Segment Growth
Intermodal volumes showed year-over-year growth, and coal volumes significantly exceeded last year's levels due to favorable conditions.
Negative Updates
Fuel Surcharge Revenue Decline
Fuel surcharge revenue declined $100 million or 225 basis points due to lower year-over-year fuel prices.
Challenges in Premium Segment
Premium revenue for the quarter was down 4% due to a 4% decrease in average revenue per car, reflecting the mix impact of increased international intermodal shipments and lower fuel surcharges.
Soft Automotive Market
Automotive volumes were down based on reduced OEM production and softer vehicle sales.
Company Guidance
During the Union Pacific Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Call, guidance highlighted several key metrics showcasing the company's strong performance and strategic direction. The company reported second quarter earnings per share (EPS) of $3.15, with an adjusted EPS of $3.03, representing a 12% increase compared to the previous year. The adjusted operating ratio improved to 58.1%, marking a 230 basis point enhancement from the prior year's results. Freight revenue, excluding fuel surcharge, saw a 6% growth, setting record highs both quarterly and year-to-date. Operational efficiency was evident as workforce productivity reached best-ever quarterly levels, and fuel consumption rate improved by 2%, setting a second quarter record. The company remains committed to achieving its three-year targets, anticipating EPS growth consistent with a high single to low double-digit compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and maintaining an industry-leading operating ratio. Additionally, Union Pacific announced returning $4.3 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, with a recent 3% dividend increase, marking the 19th consecutive year of hikes.

Union Pacific Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Union Pacific demonstrates strong profitability and cash flow metrics with consistent margins and robust cash generation. The balance sheet shows moderate leverage, presenting a mixed picture of financial health.
Income Statement
78
Positive
Union Pacific shows strong profitability with a consistent gross profit margin and net profit margin. The TTM gross profit margin is 45.57%, and the net profit margin is 28.02%, indicating efficient cost management. However, revenue growth has been somewhat inconsistent, with a slight decline in the latest period compared to previous years. Despite this, EBIT and EBITDA margins remain robust, highlighting stable operational efficiency.
Balance Sheet
65
Positive
The company's balance sheet reflects moderate leverage, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19 in the TTM period. ROE is strong at 31.84%, indicating effective use of equity. However, the equity ratio of 23.42% suggests a reliance on debt financing. Overall, the balance sheet shows a mix of strengths in profitability but potential risk from leverage.
Cash Flow
82
Very Positive
Union Pacific's cash flow is robust, with a TTM free cash flow of $4.57 billion, reflecting strong cash generation. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is 1.41, demonstrating efficient conversion of profits to cash. The free cash flow to net income ratio is favorable at 0.90, indicating healthy cash retention post-capital expenditures.
BreakdownDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue24.25B24.12B24.88B21.80B19.53B
Gross Profit11.04B10.53B11.21B10.51B9.18B
EBITDA12.50B11.93B12.64B11.84B10.33B
Net Income6.75B6.38B7.00B6.52B5.35B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets67.72B67.13B65.45B63.52B62.40B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments1.04B1.07B1.02B1.01B1.86B
Total Debt32.46B34.18B34.63B31.16B28.01B
Total Liabilities50.83B52.34B53.29B49.36B45.44B
Stockholders Equity16.89B14.79B12.16B14.16B16.96B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow5.89B4.77B5.74B6.10B5.61B
Operating Cash Flow9.35B8.38B9.36B9.03B8.54B
Investing Cash Flow-3.33B-3.67B-3.47B-2.71B-2.68B
Financing Cash Flow-6.07B-4.63B-5.89B-7.16B-4.90B

Union Pacific Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Negative
Last Price221.97
Price Trends
50DMA
226.79
Negative
100DMA
225.45
Negative
200DMA
230.56
Negative
Market Momentum
MACD
-1.23
Positive
RSI
42.40
Neutral
STOCH
37.77
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For UNP, the sentiment is Negative. The current price of 221.97 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 229.82, below the 50-day MA of 226.79, and below the 200-day MA of 230.56, indicating a bearish trend. The MACD of -1.23 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 42.40 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 37.77 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Negative sentiment for UNP.

Union Pacific Risk Analysis

Union Pacific disclosed 19 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Union Pacific reported the most risks in the "Macro & Political" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

Union Pacific Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (58)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
80
Outperform
$131.64B19.2842.35%2.41%1.06%8.13%
77
Outperform
$62.61B18.7624.11%1.94%0.71%86.84%
76
Outperform
$66.03B21.7624.83%1.41%-3.27%-10.73%
74
Outperform
$55.33B13.9514.68%2.50%0.27%-2.64%
67
Neutral
$34.26B31.6426.25%0.72%-5.54%-12.26%
67
Neutral
$72.96B12.8134.96%7.59%0.95%9.62%
58
Neutral
HK$14.20B4.67-2.78%5.88%3.78%-54.63%
* Industrials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
UNP
Union Pacific
221.97
-12.64
-5.39%
CSX
CSX
35.54
1.97
5.87%
FDX
FedEx
223.49
-62.53
-21.86%
NSC
Norfolk Southern
278.00
37.20
15.45%
ODFL
Old Dominion Freight
149.25
-44.73
-23.06%
UPS
United Parcel
86.16
-35.00
-28.89%

Union Pacific Corporate Events

Delistings and Listing ChangesM&A Transactions
Union Pacific Announces Merger with Norfolk Southern
Neutral
Jul 29, 2025

On July 28, 2025, Union Pacific Corporation announced an Agreement and Plan of Merger with Norfolk Southern Corporation, involving a two-step merger process. This strategic move, unanimously approved by Union Pacific’s Board of Directors, aims to enhance Union Pacific’s market position by making Norfolk Southern a wholly owned subsidiary. The merger agreement outlines the conversion of Norfolk Southern’s stock into Union Pacific’s stock and cash, and includes provisions for the treatment of Norfolk Southern’s equity awards. The completion of the merger is contingent upon customary closing conditions, including shareholder and regulatory approvals. The merger is expected to significantly impact the company’s operations and industry positioning, with Norfolk Southern’s stock being delisted from the NYSE upon consummation.

The most recent analyst rating on (UNP) stock is a Buy with a $275.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Union Pacific stock, see the UNP Stock Forecast page.

M&A TransactionsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Union Pacific Announces Merger with Norfolk Southern
Positive
Jul 29, 2025

On July 29, 2025, Union Pacific Corporation and Norfolk Southern Corporation announced a merger agreement to create America’s first transcontinental railroad. This strategic combination, valued at over $250 billion, aims to transform the U.S. supply chain, enhance freight competition, and unlock significant synergies, while preserving union jobs and promoting technological advancements.

The most recent analyst rating on (UNP) stock is a Buy with a $275.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Union Pacific stock, see the UNP Stock Forecast page.

M&A Transactions
Union Pacific in Advanced Merger Talks with Norfolk Southern
Neutral
Jul 24, 2025

On July 24, 2025, Union Pacific Corporation and Norfolk Southern Corporation announced that they are in advanced discussions regarding a potential merger. While no agreement has been finalized, the potential business combination could significantly impact the operations and market positioning of both companies in the transportation sector.

The most recent analyst rating on (UNP) stock is a Buy with a $275.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Union Pacific stock, see the UNP Stock Forecast page.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Union Pacific Announces Leadership Changes in May 2025
Neutral
May 9, 2025

Union Pacific announced that its President, Elizabeth F. Whited, will transition to a strategic advisor role effective July 1, 2025, after serving as the company’s first female president. Her leadership has been instrumental in guiding the company through transformative changes and historic initiatives. Additionally, Todd M. Rynaski will transition to Senior Vice President-Strategy, and Carrie J. Powers has been appointed as the new Vice President, Controller, and Chief Accounting Officer, effective immediately.

Shareholder Meetings
Union Pacific Shareholders Approve Key Proposals at Annual Meeting
Neutral
May 9, 2025

At Union Pacific Corporation’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders on May 8, 2025, shareholders voted on several key proposals. The election of directors for a one-year term was approved, with all nominated directors elected. Deloitte & Touche LLP was ratified as the independent registered public accounting firm for 2025. Additionally, the advisory vote on executive compensation was approved, while a shareholder proposal for an amended clawback policy was rejected.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Jul 30, 2025