Canadian National Railway Stock Price, News & Analysis

CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) is set to release its Q3 2021 financial and operating results on October 19, 2021, after market close. A conference call, led by JJ Ruest, CN's President and CEO, will take place at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss the results and outlook.

Participants can join the call by dialing 1-866-324-3683 (Canada/U.S.) or 1-509-844-0959 (International), using passcode 8759857. A live webcast will also be available on CN's website, with a replay accessible afterward.

TCI Fund Management has unveiled a strategic plan to enhance Canadian National Railway Company (CNI) by advocating for a new board and CEO. The plan identifies four key priorities: business growth, network investment, employee development, and environmental advocacy. It proposes the election of four independent directors and Jim Vena as CEO to improve governance and operational excellence. TCI aims to establish a high-service, low-cost network that benefits shareholders and promotes sustainability. Shareholders are encouraged to engage via the new resource site, www.CNBackOnTrack.com, leading up to the Special Meeting on March 22, 2022.

On October 5, 2021, TCI Fund Management, a significant shareholder in Canadian National Railway (CNI), announced its intention to nominate four independent directors for election at the Special Meeting scheduled for March 22, 2022. TCI emphasizes the need for a new board, citing the current board's lack of operational expertise and poor performance. The candidates nominated, including experienced railroad executives, aim to enhance governance and operational efficiency. TCI refutes claims from CN’s board regarding its motives and stresses that change is vital for CN's competitiveness and growth.

CN (TSX: CNR, NYSE: CNI) will release its third-quarter 2021 financial results after market close on October 19, 2021. A conference call discussing the results, led by JJ Ruest, President and Chief Executive Officer, will occur at 4:30 p.m. ET. Participants can join via telephone by calling 1-866-324-3683 (Canada/U.S.) or 1-509-844-0959 (International), using passcode 8759857. The call will also be webcast live, with supporting slides available on CN's website.

CN has scheduled a Special Meeting of Shareholders for March 22, 2022, in reaction to a requisition by TCI. The meeting date was mutually agreed upon, reflecting a commitment to governance and shareholder engagement. CN’s long-term growth strategy remains a priority, having received strong support from stakeholders. Despite TCI’s recent acquisition of a 5% stake and its criticism of CN’s pursuit of Kansas City Southern, the company emphasizes that it has delivered significant benefits to shareholders. CN defends its governance and past resolutions, underscoring its commitment to operational excellence.

CN (TSX: CNR, NYSE: CNI) has responded to misleading claims by TCI, highlighting conflicts of interest as TCI is also the largest shareholder of competitor Canadian Pacific (CP). CN asserts its leadership is equipped to deliver both immediate and long-term value, stating gains of $700 million from its Kansas City Southern (KCS) bid. The company emphasizes its strategic plan targeting a 57% operational ratio for 2022 and $5 billion in share repurchases. With a strong commitment to operational excellence, CN maintains that TCI's motives are suspect and lacks a credible plan for sustainable shareholder value.

CN has published its 2021-2022 Winter Plan, titled All in Together, emphasizing safety, collaboration, and technology in operations. The plan arises from extensive consultations with customers and stakeholders, ensuring readiness to tackle harsh winter conditions. JJ Ruest, President and CEO, declared the goal to be the safest and most innovative railway in North America. Underlining the importance of investments in infrastructure and technology, CN aims to safely transport over 300 million tons annually, contributing significantly to the North American economy.

TCI Fund Management has raised serious concerns regarding Canadian National Railway Company's failure to disclose Julie Godin's resignation from its Board, which occurred on September 16, 2021. TCI claims CN did not promptly issue a press release, violating securities laws and corporate governance standards. The resignation coincided with TCI's requisition for a special meeting to replace four directors and CN's strategic plan announcement. TCI intends to report CN to Canadian regulators, citing a pattern of governance failures and lack of transparency.

CN Launches Rail Safety Awareness Campaign

On September 20, 2021, CN initiated its annual rail safety awareness campaign during Rail Safety Week, running until September 26, 2021. The campaign aims to educate communities about the dangers of trespassing on tracks and ignoring safety signals. CN reported 1,901 incidents last year in the U.S., leading to 198 fatalities. Over 130 municipalities have joined the campaign. CN emphasizes shared responsibility in rail safety, encouraging individuals to remain vigilant as daily commutes resume amidst the ongoing pandemic recovery.