McDonald's Corp vs Norfolk Southern Corporation — how do they compare? McDonald's Corp trades at $274 (market cap $193.70B), while Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $333.81 (market cap $75.01B). The key difference: McDonald's Corp is far larger — about 2.6× Norfolk Southern Corporation's market cap, and McDonald's Corp pays the higher dividend (2.72%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| MCD | NSC | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $193.70B | $75.01B |
Volume | 2,230,036 | — |
Sector | Consumer Cyclical | Technology |
52-Week High | $341.06 | $350.66 |
52-Week Low | $262.80 | $272.35 |
Enterprise Value | $247.47B | $90.55B |
Dividend Yield | 2.72% | 1.62% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
McDonald's (MCD) trades at $274.15, down slightly by 0.12% on the day, with technical indicators showing a neutral overall signal. The company demonstrates strong fundamentals with consistent revenue growth, reaching $26.89 billion in 2025, and robust profitability with a 31.72% net income margin. Recent earnings have consistently beaten expectations, and the company has announced a new global growth strategy focused on automation and menu innovation to drive future performance.
The outlook for MCD is positive, supported by strong analyst consensus with a $322.45 price target implying significant upside. Key opportunities include the successful execution of its new growth plan and its defensive qualities in a challenging economy. Primary risks involve inflationary pressures on franchisee margins and intense competition in the quick-service restaurant sector.
Norfolk Southern (NSC) trades at $334.36, down 2.37% today, with a neutral technical signal and bullish moving averages. The stock shows strong fundamentals, including a 21.02% net income margin and consistent earnings beats, with Q2 2026 EPS of $3.52 exceeding expectations. Recent news highlights a potential merger with Union Pacific, adding to positive sentiment amid record revenue growth.
Outlook remains favorable due to operational strength and merger prospects, but risks include high valuation (P/E 28.49) and industry headwinds like fuel costs. Analysts are mixed, with a consensus price target of $369.67, suggesting moderate upside potential from current levels.
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 →