Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC)

Pretax margin

Dec 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020
Earnings before tax but after interest (EBT) US$ in thousands 3,329,000 2,320,000 4,130,000 3,878,000 2,530,000
Revenue US$ in thousands 12,123,000 11,434,000 12,053,000 10,496,000 9,164,000
Pretax margin 27.46% 20.29% 34.27% 36.95% 27.61%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Pretax margin = EBT ÷ Revenue
= $3,329,000K ÷ $12,123,000K
= 27.46%

The pretax margin of Norfolk Southern Corporation has shown variability over the past five years. In 2021, the company achieved a significant increase in pretax margin, reaching 36.95%, indicating a strong profitability before tax expenses. This was followed by a slight decline in 2022 to 34.27%, still maintaining a relatively high margin. However, in 2023, the pretax margin decreased notably to 20.29%, which could be a cause for concern as it reflects a decreased profitability before tax. The company then experienced a rebound in 2024 with a pretax margin of 27.46%, showing signs of recovery. Overall, the trend in pretax margin suggests fluctuations in the company's profitability over the years, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and strategic decision-making to sustain and improve financial performance.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2024

Company name
Symbol
Pretax margin
Norfolk Southern Corporation
NSC
27.46%
CSX Corporation
CSX
35.23%
Union Pacific Corporation
UNP
35.87%