Norfolk Southern's merger odds rise, but service and opposition weigh
Merger approval odds improve Canadian National dropped its opposition to the $85B Union Pacific merger, and customer protections were expanded, making it more likely regulators will approve the deal.
This is a key new development that boosts investor confidence in the merger's completion.
Record revenue despite merger costs Norfolk Southern reported record revenue of $3.47B in Q2 and $3.5B later, up 11% from a year earlier, though merger-related costs reduced profit.
Strong revenue growth shows the core business is performing well, even as costs rise.
Poor service threatens customers and scrutiny A third of merchandise shipments were over 24 hours late, risking customer defections and increased regulatory scrutiny that could complicate the merger.
Service problems could hurt future revenue and give regulators more reason to block the deal.
Berkshire, BNSF, and state AGs oppose deal Berkshire Hathaway and BNSF still oppose the merger, and seven Republican state attorneys general urged the STB to reject it, warning it would control over half of U.S. rail traffic.
Powerful opposition increases the risk that regulators will block or impose tough conditions on the merger.