Gold prices set for weekly drop as strong dollar weighs; Trump tariffs in focus
On Thursday, TD Cowen analysts adjusted their outlook on Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: NYSE:UNP), increasing the price target from the previous $245.00 to $258.00. The firm maintained a Buy rating on the stock, signaling continued confidence in the company's performance. With a market capitalization of $150.6 billion and eight analysts recently revising earnings estimates upward, Union Pacific continues to draw attention. InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is currently trading slightly above its Fair Value.
The upgrade follows Union Pacific's fourth-quarter earnings, which surpassed both TD Cowen's forecasts and the consensus estimates. According to the analysts, the railroad company concluded 2024 on a high note, with operating ratio (OR) momentum expected to continue into 2025. This optimism is supported by productivity initiatives that are anticipated to bolster earnings regardless of the fluctuating macroeconomic environment. The company's impressive gross profit margin of 55.3% and YTD return of 8.8% reflect its operational efficiency. InvestingPro subscribers can access detailed financial health metrics and 12 additional exclusive insights about Union Pacific.
The analysts noted that intermodal (IM) volumes have shown strength at the beginning of the year, although there is some uncertainty in the second half of 2025. This is due to challenging year-over-year comparisons in the international segment, which are likely to more than counterbalance improvements in the domestic market.
The decision to raise the price target is based on rolling the financial model forward, which takes into account the latest company data and market conditions. The reiteration of the Buy rating by TD Cowen underscores the firm's belief in Union Pacific's strategies and its ability to navigate through mixed macro conditions while still achieving growth.
Union Pacific Corporation, with its new price target and maintained Buy rating, is poised to continue its trajectory, as outlined by TD Cowen's latest analysis. The company's focus on productivity and operational efficiency appears set to contribute positively to its financial performance in the coming year.
In other recent news, Union Pacific has been the focus of several analyst updates. Stifel raised their stock target for Union Pacific to $270, maintaining a Buy rating, while Jefferies increased their target to $255 and BMO Capital to $277, both with positive outlooks. BofA Securities also raised their target to $279, reiterating a Buy rating, and Bernstein maintained an Outperform rating with a steady target of $277. These revisions follow Union Pacific's impressive fourth-quarter earnings, which surpassed expectations. The company's operating ratio, a key metric of profitability, was reported below 60, indicating improved efficiency and profitability. Union Pacific's gross profit margin stood at a robust 55.32%, and the company demonstrated strong financial stability with a market capitalization of $150.63 billion. These are recent developments that highlight the company's strong performance and future prospects. Analysts anticipate the company to continue benefiting from productivity improvements and modest pricing gains, contributing to its financial success in the coming years.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.