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On Thursday, Benchmark analysts maintained their Buy rating and $35.00 price target for CSX Corporation (NASDAQ:CSX). The firm’s analysts highlighted CSX’s attractive valuation, as the stock is currently trading at 13.4 times the estimated earnings per share (EPS) for 2026, which is below the peer average of 16.2 times. Currently trading at a P/E ratio of 15.46x with a market capitalization of $51.94 billion, InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is undervalued relative to its Fair Value. For deeper insights into CSX’s valuation metrics and 12 additional exclusive ProTips, explore InvestingPro’s comprehensive research report. Despite CSX reporting a first-quarter EPS of $0.34, which missed both Benchmark’s and the consensus estimate of $0.37, the firm remains optimistic about the company’s prospects.
The lower-than-expected earnings were attributed to significant disruptions caused by two major infrastructure projects and severe weather conditions. These factors contributed to an increase in cars online, lost revenue, and approximately $45 million in additional expenses. In response to these challenges, CSX is increasing its locomotive count and collaborating with customers to improve network balance. However, this recovery is expected to be gradual, potentially extending into the third quarter.
Despite the operational setbacks and prevailing market uncertainties, CSX forecasts year-over-year volume growth, with management citing relatively stable demand in end markets. Benchmark acknowledged that while they had previously discussed potential challenges arising from CSX’s infrastructure projects, as well as export metallurgical coal and fuel prices, the severe weather’s impact on the network was not fully anticipated.
In closing, Benchmark analysts believe that as CSX completes its infrastructure projects and service levels are restored, the company is still on track to meet its projected three-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for EPS.
In other recent news, CSX Corporation reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings, which did not meet analyst expectations. The company posted an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.34, missing the forecast of $0.38, and reported revenue of $3.42 billion, which was below the expected $3.51 billion. Analysts from Evercore ISI and TD Cowen have revised their price targets for CSX to $33.00 and $31.00, respectively, while maintaining their Outperform and Hold ratings. Stifel also adjusted its price target to $33.00, retaining a Buy rating, despite describing the earnings report as "sloppy" due to various operational challenges. Raymond (NSE:RYMD) James lowered its price target to $33.00 but maintained an Outperform rating, citing optimism about CSX’s strategic initiatives aimed at improving future financial outcomes. The company’s financial performance was impacted by several factors, including severe weather, infrastructure projects, and fluctuating commodity prices. Despite these challenges, some analysts anticipate that CSX’s strategic efforts and leadership changes could lead to better performance in the coming years.
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