Summary
Union Pacific Corporation (UNP) reported a strong first quarter for 2022, with net income increasing to $1.63 billion ($2.57 per diluted share) from $1.34 billion ($2.00 per diluted share) in the prior year. This growth was primarily driven by a 17% increase in operating revenues, reaching $5.86 billion, fueled by higher average revenue per car (ARC) and a modest 4% increase in volume. Higher fuel surcharges, core pricing gains, and a favorable traffic mix contributed significantly to the revenue growth. Despite rising costs, particularly a substantial 74% increase in fuel expenses due to geopolitical events and inflation, Union Pacific managed to improve its operating ratio to 59.4% from 60.1% year-over-year. The company also saw robust cash flow from operations of $2.24 billion, though capital expenditures increased significantly to $848 million, supporting growth initiatives and infrastructure hardening. The company demonstrated a strong commitment to returning capital to shareholders, repurchasing $2.74 billion in stock during the quarter.
Financial Highlights
48 data points| Revenue | $5.86B |
| Operating Expenses | $3.48B |
| Operating Income | $2.38B |
| Interest Expense | $307.00M |
| Net Income | $1.63B |
| EPS (Basic) | $2.58 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $2.57 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 632.20M |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 633.60M |
Key Highlights
- 1Net income rose to $1.63 billion ($2.57 EPS) in Q1 2022, up from $1.34 billion ($2.00 EPS) in Q1 2021.
- 2Operating revenues increased 17% year-over-year to $5.86 billion, driven by a 12% rise in Average Revenue per Car (ARC) and 4% volume growth.
- 3Fuel expenses surged 74% due to a 59% increase in locomotive diesel fuel prices, significantly impacting operating costs.
- 4The operating ratio improved to 59.4% from 60.1% year-over-year, indicating improved operational efficiency.
- 5Cash provided by operating activities was strong at $2.24 billion, while capital investments increased to $848 million.
- 6Union Pacific repurchased approximately $2.74 billion of its common stock during the quarter.
- 7The company issued new debt totaling $3.49 billion during the quarter to fund general corporate purposes, including stock repurchases.