Rail triumph: Union Pacific exceeds expectations!

Union Pacific, one of the leading railroad companies in the U.S., reported fourth-quarter earnings that rose 7%. This positive result comes at a time when investors are watching the industry as a whole, thanks in part to the expected results of rival CSX. What factors have contributed to Union Pacific's success and what challenges may lie ahead?

Union Pacific $UNP reported earnings of $1.76 billion, or $2.91 per share, well ahead of analysts' expectations, who had predicted earnings of $2.80 per share. This resulting profit is a significant improvement over last year's $1.65 billion ($2.71 per share). The company was able to deal with one-time costs associated with the payout of certain employees, which totaled $40 million.

CEO Jim Vena described the past year as a very successful one and stressed that the fourth quarter ended on a positive note. However, the company is concerned about potential risks if President Donald Trump imposes new tariffs that could affect import volumes. On the…