Norfolk Southern Corporation vs Williams-Sonoma, Inc. — how do they compare? Norfolk Southern Corporation trades at $316.97 (market cap $71.20B), while Williams-Sonoma, Inc. trades at $241.29 (market cap $28.15B). The key difference: Norfolk Southern Corporation is far larger — about 2.5× Williams-Sonoma, Inc.'s market cap, and Norfolk Southern Corporation pays the higher dividend (1.7%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals — on Pluang, investors hold Norfolk Southern Corporation for 33 Days and Williams-Sonoma, Inc. for 59 Days on average.
| NSC | WSM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $71.20B | $28.15B |
Volume | 555,248 | 1,351,262 |
Sector | Industrials | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $352.98 | $251.81 |
52-Week Low | $278.19 | $168.64 |
Typical Hold Time | 33 Days | 59 Days |
Enterprise Value | $86.75B | $28.65B |
Dividend Yield | 1.7% | 1.27% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Norfolk Southern (NSC) trades at $317.14, up 1.26% on the day, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages and a consensus analyst price target of $361.86. The company has consistently beaten earnings estimates in recent quarters, with Q3 2026 results expected soon. Strong profitability is evidenced by a 21.02% net income margin and 16.97% ROE, while news highlights significant institutional investment and progress on the proposed merger with Union Pacific.
The outlook is positive, supported by earnings momentum and potential merger benefits, but risks include integration challenges, fuel cost pressures noted in recent news, and a relatively high P/E ratio of 27.05. The stock offers a dividend yield and growth potential, contingent on successful execution of strategic initiatives.
Williams-Sonoma (WSM) trades at $240.46, down 0.74% on the day, with a bullish technical outlook and strong fundamental performance. The stock has consistently beaten earnings estimates in recent quarters, with Q2 2026 EPS of $2.10 surpassing expectations. Revenue for 2025 was $7.71 billion, with a robust net income margin of 14.73% and high return on equity of 54.96%. Recent news highlights market share gains and AI integration driving growth.
The outlook remains positive with a consensus price target of $246.31, suggesting moderate upside. Key opportunities include sustained margin strength and digital initiatives, while risks involve housing market sensitivity and competitive pressures. Institutional sentiment is mixed with 32% buy ratings, but recent insider selling by the CFO warrants 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 →With a wide retail and direct-to-consumer presence, Williams-Sonoma is a leader in the $300 billion domestic home category, focused on expanding its exposure in the B2B, marketplace, and franchise areas. Namesake Williams-Sonoma (175 stores) offers high-end cooking essentials, while Pottery Barn (189) provides casual home accessories. Brand extensions include Pottery Barn Kids (52) and PBteen. West Elm (121) is an emerging concept for young professionals, and Rejuvenation (9) offers lighting and house parts. Williams-Sonoma also has a business-to-business team that supports projects that range from residential to large-scale commercial.
Read more on WSM →