McDonald's Corp vs Norfolk Southern Corporation — how do they compare? McDonald's Corp trades at $267.33 (market cap $190.16B), while Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $334.6 (market cap $75.23B). The key difference: McDonald's Corp is far larger — about 2.5× Norfolk Southern Corporation's market cap, and McDonald's Corp pays the higher dividend (2.78%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| MCD | NSC | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $190.16B | $75.23B |
Volume | 2,230,036 | — |
Sector | Consumer Cyclical | Technology |
52-Week High | $341.06 | $340.16 |
52-Week Low | $264.54 | $272.35 |
Enterprise Value | $243.87B | $90.99B |
Dividend Yield | 2.78% | 1.61% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
McDonald's stock trades at $267.64, down slightly by 0.03% on the day, and is currently in a bearish technical trend according to moving averages. The company reported Q1 2026 earnings that beat expectations with EPS of $2.83 versus $2.74 expected, and revenue growth remains steady, reaching $26.89 billion in 2025. Recent news highlights the launch of the 'McDonald's NEXT' growth strategy focusing on automation and improved customer experience to counter competitive pressures.
The outlook for McDonald's is supported by strong fundamentals including a high net income margin of 31.62% and a consensus analyst price target of $329, implying significant upside. However, risks include inflationary pressures on franchisee margins and high long-term debt of $38.42 billion. Investor sentiment is mixed with a bearish technical signal but optimistic analyst ratings, with 58% recommending buy.
Norfolk Southern (NSC) trades at $334.97, down 1.53% today, with a bullish technical outlook from moving averages but overbought RSI signals. The company shows strong profitability with a 21.91% net income margin and has beaten earnings estimates for three consecutive quarters. Recent news highlights the pending merger with Union Pacific and upcoming Q2 2026 earnings on July 23, 2026.
The stock offers a moderate upside to the $344.40 consensus price target, supported by earnings momentum and cost controls, but faces risks from regulatory scrutiny of the merger and rich valuations. Investor sentiment is mixed amid merger uncertainties and high expectations.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
McDonald's Corporation franchises and operates fast-food restaurants in the global restaurant industry. The Company's restaurants serves a variety of value-priced menu products in countries around the world.
Read more on MCD →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 →