Norfolk Southern Corporation vs PulteGroup, Inc. — how do they compare? Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $323.3 (market cap $73.65B), while PulteGroup, Inc. trades at $118.95 (market cap $22.87B). The key difference: Norfolk Southern Corporation is far larger — about 3.2× PulteGroup, Inc.'s market cap, and Norfolk Southern Corporation pays the higher dividend (1.65%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| NSC | PHM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $73.65B | $22.87B |
Sector | Technology | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $352.98 | $142.56 |
52-Week Low | $272.36 | $110.11 |
Enterprise Value | $89.20B | $23.28B |
Dividend Yield | 1.65% | 0.87% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
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.
PulteGroup (PHM) trades at $120.07, down 3.52% on the day amid a bearish technical signal. The stock shows mixed fundamentals with a P/E of 12.26 and net income margin of 11.62%, but recent earnings missed expectations in two of the last three quarters. Positive cash flow of $355.10M in 2025 and expansion into Northwest Florida provide operational strength, though rising mortgage rates pose headwinds.
The outlook is cautious with analyst consensus leaning buy (47.73%) and a $137.57 price target suggesting 14.6% upside. Key risks include housing affordability pressures from higher yields and volatile earnings performance. The stock's current level near support at $119 offers a potential entry, but macroeconomic sensitivity warrants careful monitoring.
Trailing returns across standard periods
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 →PulteGroup Inc is one of the largest homebuilders in the United States, operating in 40 markets across 23 states. The company mainly builds single-family detached homes (85% of unit sales) and offers products to entry-level, move-up, and active-adult buyers. PulteGroup offers homebuyers mortgage financing and title agency services through its financial services segment. The company is headquartered in Atlanta.
Read more on PHM →