C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ: CHRW) experienced a significant pre-market surge of 5.65% on Thursday. The movement followed the release of the company's fourth-quarter financial results, which surpassed analyst expectations.

The freight logistics firm reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.23 for the quarter, beating estimates of $1.12. This outperformance was driven by effective cost control measures, including a 9.5% reduction in operating expenses and an 11.8% decrease in average employee headcount year-over-year. Management highlighted the success of its Lean AI strategy, which has automated key processes and improved operational efficiency.

Following the earnings release, multiple Wall Street analysts raised their price targets on the stock, reflecting renewed optimism about the company's financial performance and cost management initiatives. This collective analyst action contributed to the positive momentum in pre-market trading.