10-KPeriod: FY2009

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2009

Filed February 17, 2010For Securities:NSC

Summary

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) reported its 2009 annual results, reflecting a significant impact from the broader economic downturn. Railway operating revenues decreased by 25% to $8.0 billion compared to 2008, driven by lower traffic volumes across all commodity groups and a reduction in fuel surcharge revenues. Despite a substantial $1.6 billion decrease in operating expenses, mainly due to lower volume-related costs and fuel prices, the operating ratio increased to 75.4%. Despite the challenging revenue environment, NSC generated $1.9 billion in cash from operations, which exceeded capital expenditures and dividends. The company ended the year with a strengthened cash position of $1.1 billion. Looking ahead to 2010, NSC anticipated revenue growth stemming from an expected economic recovery, improved average revenue per unit, and higher traffic volumes. The company continues to focus on safety, service, asset management, and sustainability while managing costs effectively.

Financial Highlights

51 data points
Beta

Revenue

$7.97B

Net Income

$1.03B

13.0% Net Margin

EPS (Diluted)

$2.76

Total Assets

$27.37B

Cash & Equivalents

$996.00M

Free Cash Flow

$561.00M

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$7.97B
Operating Expenses$6.01B
Operating Income$1.96B
Interest Expense$467.00M
Net Income$1.03B
EPS (Basic)$2.79
EPS (Diluted)$2.76
Shares Outstanding (Basic)367.10M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)372.10M

Key Highlights

  • 1Railway operating revenues declined by 25% to $8.0 billion in 2009, primarily due to decreased traffic volumes and lower fuel surcharges.
  • 2Operating expenses were reduced by 21% ($1.6 billion) year-over-year, largely driven by lower fuel prices and reduced volume-related costs.
  • 3The operating ratio increased to 75.4% in 2009 from 71.1% in 2008, indicating higher operating expenses relative to revenues.
  • 4Despite revenue challenges, the company generated $1.9 billion in cash from operating activities, demonstrating strong operational cash flow.
  • 5Net income decreased by 40% to $1.0 billion ($2.76 per diluted share) in 2009 from $1.7 billion ($4.52 per diluted share) in 2008.
  • 6NSC ended 2009 with $1.1 billion in cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments, an increase from the previous year.
  • 7Capital expenditures were $1.3 billion in 2009, with plans for $1.44 billion in 2010, focusing on roadway, facilities, technology, and equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary drivers of Norfolk Southern's revenue decline in 2009 were a significant decrease in traffic volumes across all commodity groups due to the weak economic conditions, coupled with lower fuel surcharge revenues. This resulted in a 25% drop in railway operating revenues compared to 2008.

Norfolk Southern managed its expenses effectively by reducing operating costs by $1.6 billion (21%). Key areas of reduction included lower fuel prices and decreased volume-related expenses such as payroll and purchased services. Despite these cost savings, the operating ratio still rose due to the significant revenue decline.

Norfolk Southern anticipates revenue growth in 2010, driven by an expected gradual economic recovery. This recovery is projected to lead to higher traffic volumes and improved average revenue per unit, including an increase in fuel surcharge revenues if fuel prices remain stable or increase.

Norfolk Southern budgeted $1.44 billion for capital expenditures in 2010. This investment was planned for roadway projects (e.g., rail, ties, ballast, bridges), facilities and terminals (including intermodal and bulk transfer sites), technology (including Positive Train Control implementation), and equipment (primarily locomotive upgrades).