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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:76Outperform
Price Target:
$249.00
â–²(15.26% Upside)
Union Pacific's overall stock score is driven by strong financial performance and a positive outlook from the recent earnings call. The merger announcement adds significant strategic value. However, technical indicators suggest caution, and modest revenue growth reflects a mature growth phase.
Positive Factors
Strategic Merger
The merger with Norfolk Southern is a strategic move that will enhance Union Pacific's market position, expand its network, and unlock synergies, providing long-term competitive advantages and operational efficiencies.
Operational Efficiency
Improved operational efficiency through better freight car velocity and train speed enhances service reliability and cost management, supporting sustained profitability and customer satisfaction.
Earnings Growth
Consistent earnings growth reflects strong financial management and operational execution, providing a solid foundation for future investments and shareholder returns.
Negative Factors
Modest Revenue Growth
Modest revenue growth indicates limited expansion potential in the current market, which may constrain future earnings growth and necessitate strategic initiatives for new revenue streams.
Decline in Fuel Surcharge Revenue
The decline in fuel surcharge revenue reduces overall revenue, impacting profitability. This highlights vulnerability to fuel price fluctuations and the need for revenue diversification.
Intermodal Volume Challenges
Challenges in intermodal volumes could hinder growth in a key revenue segment, affecting overall revenue and requiring strategic adjustments to maintain competitiveness.

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

Union Pacific Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionUnion Pacific Corporation (UNP) is a leading North American transportation service provider, operating one of the largest freight railroad networks in the United States. The company primarily serves the western two-thirds of the country, offering a diverse range of transportation services that include intermodal, bulk commodities, and merchandise freight. Union Pacific plays a vital role in connecting markets and facilitating the movement of goods across various sectors, including agriculture, automotive, chemicals, coal, and industrial products.
How the Company Makes MoneyUnion Pacific generates revenue primarily through the transportation of freight. Its revenue model is built on several key streams: first, the movement of bulk commodities such as coal, agricultural products, and chemicals, which constitutes a significant portion of its earnings. Second, the company earns income from merchandise freight, which includes manufactured goods and consumer products. Third, intermodal services, where goods are transported in containers that can be moved seamlessly between rail and truck transport, also contribute notably to revenue. Additionally, Union Pacific has established partnerships with various industries to enhance logistics and supply chain efficiency, ensuring consistent demand for its services. Factors such as economic growth, infrastructure investments, and the overall health of the freight market significantly influence the company's earnings.

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 steady recovery since early 2023, reaching levels not seen since 2020. This improvement aligns with the company's record operational efficiency and workforce productivity, as highlighted in the latest earnings call. Despite challenges in fuel surcharge revenue and the premium segment, Union Pacific's strategic focus on operational excellence and cost management is paying off, supporting their ambitious EPS growth targets. Investors should note the company's commitment to shareholder returns, evidenced by a consistent dividend increase over 19 years.
Data provided by:Main Street Data

Union Pacific Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Jul 24, 2025
(Q2-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Oct 16, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
Union Pacific demonstrated strong financial performance with significant improvements in earnings per share, freight revenue, and operating efficiency. Despite some challenges, such as declines in fuel surcharge revenue and automotive volumes, the company remains optimistic about future growth and operational improvements.
Q2-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Strong Earnings Per Share Growth
Union Pacific reported second quarter earnings per share of $3.15, with adjusted earnings per share of $3.03, up 12% versus last year's adjusted results.
Record Freight Revenue
Freight revenue, excluding fuel surcharge, grew 6% in the second quarter, setting best-ever quarterly and year-to-date records in 2025.
Improved Operating Ratio
The adjusted second quarter operating ratio was 58.1%, improving 230 basis points versus last year's adjusted results.
Workforce Productivity Record
Set quarterly records in both quarters for workforce productivity with second quarter ranking as the best ever.
Dividend Increase
Union Pacific announced a 3% dividend increase, marking the 19th consecutive year of annual increases.
Operational Efficiency
Freight car velocity improved 10% and train speed improved 3%, contributing to record locomotive productivity and workforce productivity.
Coal Segment Growth
Bulk segment revenue was up 10% with an 11% increase in volume, driven by strong customer demand and favorable natural gas pricing.
Negative Updates
Decline in Fuel Surcharge Revenue
Fuel surcharge revenue declined $100 million or 225 basis points due to lower year-over-year fuel prices.
Other Revenue Decline
Other revenue declined 16% to $311 million, impacted by lower accessorial and subsidiary revenues.
Premium Revenue Decrease
Premium revenue was down 4% on a 1% increase in volume and a 4% decrease in average revenue per car due to mix impact and lower fuel surcharges.
Automotive Volumes Down
Automotive volumes were down based on reduced OEM production.
Potential Headwinds in Intermodal
Strong comparisons and port shifts are expected to challenge international and domestic intermodal volumes in the second half of 2025.
Company Guidance
During Union Pacific's Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Call, the company reported an adjusted earnings per share of $3.03, which marked a 12% increase compared to the previous year. They achieved a record in freight revenue, excluding fuel surcharge, with a 6% growth, leading to best-ever quarterly and year-to-date records. The adjusted operating ratio improved by 230 basis points to 58.1%, with freight car velocity increasing by 10% to 221 miles per day. The call highlighted a 4% increase in operating revenue to $6.2 billion, while net income reached $1.9 billion. Union Pacific also efficiently handled a 30% surge in coal and renewable shipments, maintaining a 99% intermodal service performance and achieving a workforce productivity record with a 9% improvement. The company remains committed to its long-term goals, including a high single to low double-digit EPS CAGR and an industry-leading operating ratio.

Union Pacific Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Union Pacific demonstrates strong financial performance with stable revenue growth, strong profitability, and efficient cash flow management. While leverage is moderate, strategic debt reductions could further enhance the financial standing. The company is in a mature growth phase, maintaining consistent profitability.
Income Statement
85
Very Positive
Union Pacific demonstrates strong profitability with a consistent Gross Profit Margin and Net Profit Margin over the TTM (Trailing-Twelve-Months) compared to previous years. Revenue growth is modest but stable, and EBIT and EBITDA margins indicate efficient operations. However, revenue growth has slowed slightly in recent years, suggesting a mature growth phase.
Balance Sheet
78
Positive
The company's balance sheet shows a healthy Equity Ratio, reflecting a reasonable proportion of equity financing. The Debt-to-Equity Ratio is moderate, indicating manageable leverage levels. Return on Equity remains strong, showcasing effective use of shareholders' funds, although there is room for improvement in reducing total debt further.
Cash Flow
80
Positive
Union Pacific's cash flow statements reveal a strong ability to generate operating cash flows, supported by a solid Operating Cash Flow to Net Income Ratio. The Free Cash Flow Growth Rate is positive, but capital expenditures have impacted free cash flow levels. Overall, cash flow management remains robust, with potential to enhance free cash flow through optimized capital spending.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue24.39B24.25B24.12B24.88B21.80B19.53B
Gross Profit11.14B11.04B10.53B11.21B10.51B9.18B
EBITDA12.64B12.50B11.93B12.64B11.84B10.33B
Net Income6.93B6.75B6.38B7.00B6.52B5.35B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets68.58B67.72B67.13B65.45B63.52B62.40B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments1.06B1.04B1.07B1.02B1.01B1.86B
Total Debt33.96B32.46B34.18B34.96B31.49B28.33B
Total Liabilities52.32B50.83B52.34B53.29B49.36B45.44B
Stockholders Equity16.26B16.89B14.79B12.16B14.16B16.96B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow6.26B5.89B4.77B5.74B6.10B5.61B
Operating Cash Flow9.86B9.35B8.38B9.36B9.03B8.54B
Investing Cash Flow-3.57B-3.33B-3.67B-3.47B-2.71B-2.68B
Financing Cash Flow-6.35B-6.07B-4.63B-5.89B-7.16B-4.90B

Union Pacific Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Negative
Last Price216.04
Price Trends
50DMA
224.04
Negative
100DMA
222.24
Negative
200DMA
227.41
Negative
Market Momentum
MACD
-1.65
Positive
RSI
40.23
Neutral
STOCH
25.26
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 216.04 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 220.72, below the 50-day MA of 224.04, and below the 200-day MA of 227.41, indicating a bearish trend. The MACD of -1.65 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 40.23 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 25.26 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 (63)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
79
Outperform
$61.11B18.4024.11%1.97%0.71%86.84%
76
Outperform
$127.62B18.6942.35%2.50%1.06%8.13%
74
Outperform
$59.75B19.6924.83%1.59%-3.27%-10.73%
73
Outperform
$53.24B13.4214.68%2.47%0.27%-2.64%
71
Outperform
$30.75B28.5826.25%0.75%-5.54%-12.26%
69
Neutral
$71.75B12.4734.96%7.74%0.94%9.62%
63
Neutral
$10.84B15.287.40%1.99%2.87%-14.59%
* Industrials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
UNP
Union Pacific
216.04
-27.29
-11.22%
CSX
CSX
32.85
-0.15
-0.45%
FDX
FedEx
228.81
-51.00
-18.23%
NSC
Norfolk Southern
274.00
33.49
13.92%
ODFL
Old Dominion Freight
149.40
-41.98
-21.94%
UPS
United Parcel
84.65
-35.00
-29.25%

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.

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.

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.

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: Sep 06, 2025