Summary
Union Pacific Corporation (UNP) reported solid financial results for the third quarter and the first nine months of 2024, demonstrating resilience and operational improvements. For the third quarter, operating revenues increased by 3% to $6.1 billion, driven by a 6% increase in freight volumes and core pricing gains, which more than offset negative mix impacts and lower fuel surcharge revenues. Net income rose to $1.7 billion, or $2.75 per diluted share, up from $1.5 billion, or $2.51 per diluted share, in the prior year's quarter. The company achieved an improved operating ratio of 60.3% compared to 63.4% in Q3 2023, reflecting significant productivity gains, lower fuel prices, and efficient network management. Year-to-date performance also showed growth, with operating revenues up 1% to $18.1 billion and net income increasing to $5.0 billion, or $8.18 per diluted share, from $4.7 billion, or $7.75 per diluted share, in the comparable period of 2023. These results underscore Union Pacific's ability to manage costs effectively while growing its top line, driven by strong performance in key commodity groups and enhanced operational efficiency.
Financial Highlights
48 data points| Revenue | $6.09B |
| Operating Expenses | $3.67B |
| Operating Income | $2.42B |
| Interest Expense | $314.00M |
| Net Income | $1.67B |
| EPS (Basic) | $2.75 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $2.75 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 607.60M |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 608.60M |
Key Highlights
- 1Operating revenues increased by 3% to $6.1 billion in Q3 2024, and by 1% to $18.1 billion for the first nine months of 2024, compared to the prior year periods.
- 2Net income for the third quarter rose to $1.7 billion ($2.75 per diluted share) from $1.5 billion ($2.51 per diluted share) in Q3 2023.
- 3Year-to-date net income grew to $5.0 billion ($8.18 per diluted share) from $4.7 billion ($7.75 per diluted share) in the comparable 2023 period.
- 4The operating ratio improved significantly to 60.3% in Q3 2024 from 63.4% in Q3 2023, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency.
- 5Freight volumes increased by 6% in Q3 2024, driven by international intermodal and grain shipments.
- 6Cash provided by operating activities increased to $6.7 billion for the first nine months of 2024 from $6.0 billion in the same period of 2023.
- 7Capital expenditures for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, were $2.53 billion, a slight decrease from $2.58 billion in the prior year, supporting network improvements and growth.