Norfolk Southern’s $85B Merger with Union Pacific Faces Regulatory Hurdles Despite Katoen Natie Endorsement, Stock Ranks 252nd on $0.41B Volume

On September 3, 2025, Norfolk Southern (NSC) closed with a -0.02% decline, trading on a volume of $0.41 billion, ranking 252nd in market activity. The stock’s muted performance reflects ongoing uncertainty surrounding the proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, which remains under regulatory scrutiny.

Katoen Natie, a major global logistics firm, publicly endorsed the merger, emphasizing its potential to create a coast-to-coast rail network spanning 50,000 miles and 43 U.S. states. The company highlighted strategic benefits for Gulf Coast petrochemical industries, including streamlined transportation of plastics and chemicals via combined rail networks. This alignment with Union Pacific’s existing Gulf operations is seen as critical for improving shipment efficiency and capacity, though regulatory hurdles persist.

Analysts note that while pro-merger endorsements from logistics players like Katoen Natie signal industry support, broader market skepticism remains. Recent regulatory actions, including the removal of a key Federal Surface Transportation Board member overseeing the deal, have raised concerns about potential delays. The stock’s slight decline underscores investor caution amid mixed signals from stakeholders and unresolved regulatory challenges.

Backtest results indicate that NSC’s 52-week high of $112.45 remains intact, with a 200-day moving average at $108.70 providing technical support. The stock has traded within a $105–$115 range in the past six months, reflecting limited volatility despite merger-related news. No significant price patterns emerged in historical data since the merger announcement in July 2025.