CAT vs NSC: Which is Better to Buy in 2026?

Side-by-side fundamental comparison based on AI analysis of SEC filings

AI Verdict

CAT has stronger fundamentals based on our AI analysis.

CAT
CATERPILLAR INC
A
70%
Confidence
VS
NSC
NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORP
C
75%
Confidence

CAT vs NSC Fundamental Comparison

Metric CAT NSC
Revenue $17.4B $3.0B
Net Income $2.5B $547.0M
Net Margin 14.6% 18.2%
ROE 13.7% 3.5%
ROA 2.7% 1.2%
Current Ratio 1.35x 0.91x
Debt/Equity 1.65x 1.04x
EPS $5.47 $2.43

Green = Better metric | Red = Weaker metric

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Browse Sectors: Technology Healthcare Finance Energy Consumer Industrial
Stock Lists: Top Rated Undervalued Growth Dividend

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CAT vs NSC: Frequently Asked Questions

Is CAT or NSC the better stock in 2026?

Based on dual AI fundamental analysis (Claude and ChatGPT), CAT has stronger fundamentals. CAT is graded A (70% confidence) while NSC is graded C (75% confidence). This is not investment advice.

How does CAT compare to NSC fundamentally?

CATERPILLAR INC has ROE of 13.7% vs NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORP's 3.5%. Net margins are 14.6% vs 18.2% respectively.

Which stock pays higher dividends, CAT or NSC?

CAT has a dividend yield of N/A or no dividend while NSC has N/A or no dividend. Check individual stock pages for detailed dividend history and payout ratios.

Should I invest in CAT or NSC for long term?

For long-term investing, consider that CAT has a A grade with 70% confidence, while NSC has a C grade with 75% confidence. Higher confidence indicates more consistent fundamentals from SEC filings. This is not investment advice - always do your own research.

What do the AI models say about CAT vs NSC?

Our dual AI system (Claude by Anthropic and ChatGPT by OpenAI) analyzes SEC 10-K and 10-Q filings independently. For CAT vs NSC, the AI consensus favors CAT based on fundamental metrics including revenue growth, profitability, ROE, and balance sheet strength.