Canadian National Railway Stock Price, News & Analysis

CN (CNI) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining its U.S. headquarters in Kansas City while pursuing a merger with Kansas City Southern (KCS). CN argues that its proposal is superior to that of Canadian Pacific (CP), emphasizing benefits such as increased competition, lower costs, and enhanced service for customers. The company aims to preserve existing routes and create jobs in the local community, with over 600 stakeholders supporting the merger. CN seeks a higher regulatory review standard to ensure fair competition and has implemented measures to address any concerns regarding overlapping tracks.

CN's proposal to merge with Kansas City Southern (KCS) in a $33.7 billion cash-and-stock deal has garnered over 600 letters of support from stakeholders, surpassing Canadian Pacific Railway's (CP) response to its rival bid. This combination aims to enhance routing options and competition by providing new access to 22 Class 1 gateways and 11 international ports. With minimal network overlap, CN assures customers that no one will lose transportation choices. The merger is projected to drive economic growth and improve freight efficiencies across North America.

CN announced the election results from its Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on April 27, 2021. All 11 nominees proposed by management were successfully elected as directors. Key highlights include:

• Shauneen Bruder received 98.35% support with 532,655,670 votes.
• Julie Godin secured 99.58% approval with 539,307,606 votes.
• Denise Gray achieved 99.85%, totaling 540,764,713 votes.
• The Hon. Kevin G. Lynch garnered 98.11% with 531,341,988 votes.

These results indicate strong shareholder confidence in the board's leadership.

CN (TSX: CNR) has appointed Ms. Roberta Jamieson and the Honourable Murray Sinclair as Co-Chairs of the new Indigenous Advisory Council (IAC). This independent council aims to enhance the company's relationship with over 200 Indigenous communities across Canada. The IAC will guide CN in fostering diversity, inclusion, and economic opportunities while addressing critical issues such as environmental protection. This initiative aligns with CN's commitment to ESG goals and best practices, reinforcing its leadership among North American railroads.

CN has declared a quarterly dividend of C$0.6150 per common share to be paid on June 30, 2021, to shareholders recorded by the close of business on June 9, 2021. This announcement reflects the company's commitment to returning value to its shareholders. With a robust rail network of 19,500 miles, CN plays an essential role in the transportation of over 300 million tons of goods across North America annually, emphasizing its significance in trade and community prosperity.

CN reported robust first-quarter results for 2021, achieving a 5% year-over-year traffic volume increase and targeting double-digit adjusted diluted EPS growth. Operating income reached C$1,327 million (up 9%) while diluted EPS was C$1.37 (down 4%). The company's operational metrics improved significantly, with operating ratio at 62.5%. CN also proposed a merger with Kansas City Southern, valued at US$33.7 billion, enhancing service and competition across North America. The outlook expects C$3.0 billion to C$3.3 billion in free cash flow for 2021.

MONTREAL, April 26, 2021 - CN (TSX: CNR, NYSE: CNI) will announce its first-quarter 2021 financial results after market close today. A conference call to discuss these results, led by CEO JJ Ruest, will begin at 4:30 p.m. ET. To participate by phone, dial 1-866-324-3683 (Canada/U.S.) or 1-509-844-0959 (International) using passcode 9369407, 10 minutes before the call. The presentation will be webcast live and slides will be available on the CN Investors website, with a replay accessible afterward.

CN (TSX: CNR, NYSE: CNI) reported overwhelming support for its proposed merger with Kansas City Southern (NYSE: KSU). Within just four business days of the announcement, over 400 letters from customers, suppliers, and officials were submitted to the Surface Transportation Board (STB). This pro-competitive combination aims to enhance North American trade by creating a seamless single-line service.

CN anticipates further support as discussions continue, emphasizing the merger's potential to boost economic prosperity.

CN (NYSE: CNI) is advancing its proposal to acquire Kansas City Southern (NYSE: KSU), as KCS's board finds CN's offer potentially leads to a "Company Superior Proposal." CN's acquisition aims to create a leading 21st-century railway, offering KCS shareholders immediate value and future participation in the combined company's growth. CN emphasizes its extensive experience in the U.S. market, and plans to utilize a voting trust for prompt compensation to KCS shareholders. The companies are engaging in confirmatory due diligence to finalize the merger.