Stock of Union Pacific has stabilized near $87. The current
price stood at $87.98 as the markets closed today. Share prices have
changed very little during the past week. However, the past month marks a
5% decline in share prices, almost certainly due to panic in the Chinese
economy, a significant end-point for the goods shipped by Union Pacific.
With nearly two months passed since third quarter earnings,--one
in which EPS, but not revenue, beat analyst estimates—some of the factors that
beleaguered top-line numbers still stand. Foremost, the declining demand
for coal continues. Coal accounts for 18% of Union Pacific's revenue, and
declined by 18% year-over-year this past quarter. The White House aims to
cut carbon emissions in the power generation industry, the primary coal market, by 32%
within 15 years. Management expects coal revenue, as a percent of total
revenue, to decline from its previous 18%. Stronger automotive and
general freight has improved the shortfall.
Expectations for Union Pacific remain positive. A few major
institutions, including Bank of America, Cowen and Company, and Topeka Capital
Markets, have upgraded stock of UNP. Price targets are lower than in the
past, but all exceed $100. In addition, Morningstar recently upgraded Union
Pacific debt to a ranking of 'A,' citing reliable cash flows and return on
equity. Accordingly, we remain convicted in this position.
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