CSX claims record-low operating ratio of 60.3 NEWSWIRE

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — CSX Corp. today announced fourth quarter 2018 net earnings of $843 million, or $1.01 per share, versus $4,140 million, or $4.62 per share on a GAAP basis ($0.64 on an adjusted basis) in the same period last year. Fourth quarter 2017 net earnings included a tax reform benefit resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and a restructuring charge that accounted for $3.98 per share (see table below for details). CSX’s operating ratio set a company fourth quarter record of 60.3 percent from 60.7 percent in the prior year or 65.1 percent on an adjusted basis.

CSX’s full year 2018 operating ratio of 60.3 percent is a U.S. Class I railroad record.

CSX also announced the board has authorized $5 billion in share repurchases following the early completion of the existing $5 billion authorization.

“As I reflect back on this past year, this team of railroaders has proven they are capable of accomplishing amazing things,” said James M. Foote, president and chief executive officer. “We are entering 2019 on a new trajectory with significant opportunity to improve across all aspects of our business. I expect CSX to deliver even better service to our customers and drive significant shareholder value.”

Revenue for the fourth quarter increased 10 percent over the prior year to $3.14 billion, supported by increases in fuel recovery, broad-based volume growth, pricing gains, higher supplemental revenue and favorable mix. Expenses increased 9 percent year over year to $1.89 billion, or 2 percent when 2017 results are adjusted for the impacts of restructuring and tax reform benefits. This combination yielded adjusted operating income growth of 25 percent for the quarter to $1.25 billion compared to $998 million in the same period last year.

CSX executives will conduct a conference call with the investment community this afternoon, Jan. 16, at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

Investors, media and the public may listen to the conference call by dialing 1-888-327-6279. For callers outside the U.S., dial 1-773-756-0199. Participants should dial in 10 minutes prior to the call and enter in 3276279 as the passcode.

In conjunction with the call, a live webcast will be accessible and presentation materials will be posted on the company’s website at http://investors.csx.com. Following the earnings call, an internet replay of the presentation will be archived on the company website.

This earnings announcement, as well as additional detailed financial information, is contained in the CSX Quarterly Financial Report available through the company’s website at http://investors.csx.com and on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

— A CSX Corp. news release. Jan. 16, 2019.