Image Source: Union Pacific
By Brian Nelson, CFA
Union Pacific (UNP) recently reported third quarter results that missed expectations on both the top and bottom lines, but the company remains one of our favorite railroads. Its operating revenue grew 3% in the quarter, to $6.1 billion, thanks to increased volume and core pricing gains that were only partially offset by business mix and lower fuel surcharge revenue. Freight revenue, excluding fuel surcharges, advanced 5% in the period, while revenue carloads grew 6% in the quarter. Union Pacific’s operating ratio improved 310 basis points in the quarter, to 60.3%, thanks in part to lower fuel prices. In the quarter, operating income increased 11%, while net income increased 9% and earnings per diluted share was up 10%, to $2.75.
Management had the following to say about the quarter:
Our third quarter results demonstrate the success of our strategy. Improved safety and service performance supported solid revenue growth that we converted into double-digit improvement in third quarter operating income and earnings per share. The entire Union Pacific team is focused on delivering for our customers and shareholders; and is energized to build on these accomplishments to drive sustainable long-term success.
Union Pacific ended the third quarter with $947 million in cash and cash equivalents, while total debt stood at $31.4 billion. Year-to-date, cash provided by operating activities increased to $6.7 billion from $6 billion in the same period last year, while capital expenditures fell to $2.5 billion from $2.6 billion in the year-ago period. Year-to-date free cash flow was $4.2 billion, well in excess of cash dividends paid of $2.4 billion over the same time period. Management expects fourth quarter results to be “consistent sequentially from the third quarter, while improving year-over-year versus the fourth quarter 2023.” Shares yield 2.2%. The high end of our fair value estimate range for Union Pacific is $264 per share.
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Brian Nelson owns shares in SPY, SCHG, QQQ, DIA, VOT, RSP, and IWM. Valuentum owns SPY, SCHG, QQQ, VOO, and DIA. Brian Nelson’s household owns shares in HON, DIS, HAS, NKE, DIA, RSP, SCHG, QQQ, and VOO. Some of the other securities written about in this article may be included in Valuentum’s simulated newsletter portfolios. Contact Valuentum for more information about its editorial policies.
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