Norfolk Southern Corporation vs Williams Companies Inc — how do they compare? Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $333 (market cap $75.23B), while Williams Companies Inc trades at $73.25 (market cap $90.70B). The key difference: Williams Companies Inc is the larger of the two by market cap, and Williams Companies Inc pays the higher dividend (2.83%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| NSC | WMB | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $75.23B | $90.70B |
Sector | Technology | Energy |
52-Week High | $340.16 | $79.40 |
52-Week Low | $272.35 | $56.51 |
Enterprise Value | $90.99B | $120.08B |
Dividend Yield | 1.61% | 2.83% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Norfolk Southern (NSC) trades at $334.97, down 1.53% on the day, with a bullish technical outlook supported by moving averages. The stock shows strong profitability with a 21.91% net income margin and has beaten earnings estimates for three consecutive quarters. Key developments include the pending Q2 2026 earnings report on July 23, 2026, and ongoing regulatory review of the proposed merger with Union Pacific, which dominates recent news coverage.
The investment outlook is cautiously optimistic, supported by earnings momentum and a consensus price target of $344.40 offering modest upside. Risks include potential regulatory hurdles for the merger, declining revenue projections for 2026, and elevated valuation multiples. The stock's current price near resistance levels suggests near-term volatility around earnings could present entry opportunities for long-term investors.
Williams Companies (WMB) trades at $73.36, showing minimal daily movement with a slight 0.03% decline. The stock demonstrates strong profitability with 23.4% net income margins and 21.95% ROE, though valuation metrics appear elevated with a P/E of 32.53. Recent developments include a $5.34 billion Blackstone-led investment for power innovation projects and potential $5.5 billion Momentum Midstream acquisition, positioning the company for strategic growth in energy infrastructure.
WMB presents a compelling investment case with strong analyst support (79% buy ratings) and $86 consensus price target representing 17% upside. The company's fee-based midstream model provides revenue stability, while recent strategic investments enhance growth prospects. Key risks include commodity price volatility, execution challenges from major acquisitions, and elevated debt levels at 52% of assets.
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 →Williams is a midstream energy company that owns and operates the large Transco and Northwest pipeline systems and associated natural gas gathering, processing, and storage assets. In August 2018, the firm acquired the remaining 26% ownership of its limited partner, Williams Partners.
Read more on WMB →