Genuine Parts Company vs Norfolk Southern Corporation — how do they compare? Genuine Parts Company trades at $125 (market cap $16.65B), while Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $338.14 (market cap $73.79B). The key difference: Norfolk Southern Corporation is far larger — about 4.4× Genuine Parts Company's market cap, and Genuine Parts Company pays the higher dividend (3.51%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| GPC | NSC | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $16.65B | $73.79B |
Sector | Consumer Cyclical | Technology |
52-Week High | $149.26 | $328.54 |
52-Week Low | $92.47 | $260.32 |
Enterprise Value | $22.87B | $89.55B |
Dividend Yield | 3.51% | 1.64% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
GPC trades at $125.40, up 2.65% with a bullish technical signal. The stock shows mixed fundamentals with a high P/E ratio of 275 but strong gross margins of 36.87%. Recent earnings beat expectations in Q1 2026 after two consecutive misses, with Q2 2026 results expected July 21. Analyst consensus is mixed with 43% buy ratings and a $133 price target, while technical indicators show support at $119-120 and resistance at $122-124.
GPC presents a cautious opportunity with dividend stability but faces profitability challenges. The 70-year dividend growth history provides income appeal, though net margins below 1% and declining cash flow trends warrant monitoring. Upside exists if Q2 earnings beat expectations, but weak profitability and rising debt-to-asset ratios pose significant risks to shareholder value.
Norfolk Southern (NSC) trades at $338.82, up 3.67% today, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages but overbought RSI levels. The company reported strong earnings beats in recent quarters, with Q2 2026 results expected on July 23, 2026. Fundamentals show robust profitability, including a 21.91% net income margin and 17.6% ROE, though valuation multiples like a P/E of 27.68 are elevated. Key news includes ongoing regulatory review of the proposed merger with Union Pacific.
The outlook is mixed: analyst consensus targets $344.40 with a buy rating, but regulatory uncertainty around the merger and high valuation pose risks. Earnings growth and merger progress are critical for upside, while any regulatory setbacks could pressure the stock. Investors should weigh strong fundamentals against execution and macro risks.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Genuine Parts sells automotive parts (about two thirds of net sales) and industrial components. The company sells vehicle parts to commercial and retail customers through roughly 9,700 stores worldwide, most of which are independently owned. Its industrial unit, primarily operating under the Motion Industries banner in the United States, supplies bearings, power transmission, industrial automation, hydraulic, and pneumatic components to maintenance, repair, and OEM clients.
Read more on GPC →Norfolk Southern Corporation is a major North American railroad company operating one of the largest freight rail networks in the eastern United States. The company transports a diverse range of commodities, including coal, intermodal containers, and various industrial products. NSC is a critical link in the nation's supply chain, providing efficient, long-haul transportation services to and from ports and industrial centers.
Read more on NSC →