Compare Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) vs Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) Price & Performance
Price performance (Past 24H)
Key statistics
Key statistics
Merck & Co., Inc. vs Norfolk Southern Corporation — how do they compare? Merck & Co., Inc. trades at $148.1 (market cap $366.28B), while Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $323.3 (market cap $73.65B). The key difference: Merck & Co., Inc. is far larger — about 5× Norfolk Southern Corporation's market cap, and Merck & Co., Inc. pays the higher dividend (2.29%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| MRK | NSC | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $366.28B | $73.65B |
Sector | Health | Technology |
52-Week High | $156.43 | $352.98 |
52-Week Low | $77.60 | $272.36 |
Enterprise Value | $413.04B | $89.20B |
Dividend Yield | 2.29% | 1.65% |
Aura AI Summary
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Aura AI Summary
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Merck (MRK) trades at $148.49, down 1.23% on the day, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages and a consensus analyst price target of $156.71. The company reported strong earnings beats in recent quarters, with Q3 2026 results pending, and maintains a robust gross profit margin of 72.97%. Recent news highlights Merck's acquisition of Terns Pharmaceuticals to bolster its oncology pipeline, reflecting strategic growth initiatives amid a competitive pharmaceutical landscape.
The outlook for MRK is positive, driven by earnings momentum and strategic acquisitions, but risks include high valuation multiples like a P/E of 118.77 and regulatory pressures. Investors should weigh the company's solid cash flow and analyst support against potential market volatility and integration challenges from recent M&A activity.
Norfolk Southern (NSC) trades at $327.92, down 0.47% on the day, amid a bearish technical signal. The stock has consistently beaten earnings estimates in recent quarters, with Q3 2026 results pending. Key fundamentals show strong profitability with a 21.02% net income margin and 16.97% ROE, though valuation multiples like the P/E of 27.98 appear elevated. Recent news highlights ongoing institutional accumulation and progress in the proposed merger with Union Pacific, which remains under regulatory review.
The outlook is balanced; the merger potential offers upside, but regulatory hurdles and a premium valuation pose risks. Analyst consensus is mixed with a Hold rating predominating, though the $369.67 price target implies modest upside. Earnings sustainability and merger approval are critical for near-term direction.
Returns comparison
Trailing returns across standard periods
Returns comparison
Trailing returns across standard periods
About Merck & Co., Inc.
Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent hepatitis B and pediatric diseases as well as HPV and shingles. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the firm's sales are generated in the United States.
Read more on MRK →About Norfolk Southern Corporation
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 →
