Norfolk Southern Corporation vs Tractor Supply Co — how do they compare? Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $323.3 (market cap $73.65B), while Tractor Supply Co trades at $34 (market cap $18.39B). The key difference: Norfolk Southern Corporation is far larger — about 4× Tractor Supply Co's market cap, and Tractor Supply Co pays the higher dividend (2.72%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| NSC | TSCO | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $73.65B | $18.39B |
Sector | Technology | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $352.98 | $60.61 |
52-Week Low | $272.36 | $29.14 |
Enterprise Value | $89.20B | $24.70B |
Dividend Yield | 1.65% | 2.72% |
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.
Tractor Supply Company (TSCO) trades at $35.29, up 0.86% on the day, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages. The stock is supported by strong profitability, including a 39.51% ROE and 6.42% net income margin, though recent quarterly EPS results have missed expectations. Revenue growth remains steady, reaching $15.52B in 2025, while analyst consensus is a Buy with a $36.29 price target. Recent corporate developments include a dividend payment and participation in industry conferences.
The outlook for TSCO is cautiously optimistic, with upside potential near the consensus target, but risks include competitive pressures and cyclical sales headwinds. Investment appeal hinges on execution of strategic initiatives in pet care and logistics, while monitoring margin trends and same-store sales performance is critical for sustained growth.
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 →Tractor Supply is the largest operator of retail farm and ranch stores in the United States. The company targets recreational farmers and ranchers and has little exposure to commercial and industrial farm operations. Currently, the company operates 2,016 of its namesake banners in 49 states and 178 Petsense stores. Stores are typically located in towns outside of urban areas and in rural communities. In fiscal 2021, revenue consisted primarily of livestock and pet (47%), hardware, tools, and truck (21%), and seasonal gift and toy (21%).
Read more on TSCO →