CSX Corp, a major US railroad operator, has announced that its board of directors has approved a new $5 billion share repurchase program. This authorization significantly adds to the approximately $989 million remaining under the existing plan, which is set to expire on March 31, 2026. The new authorization will be combined with the previous remaining amount to provide the company with greater flexibility for future capital allocation.
Details of the Repurchase Program According to the announcement, share repurchases may be conducted through various methods, including open market purchases, 10b5-1 trading plans, accelerated share repurchases, and negotiated block trades. The specific timing and amounts will be determined by the board based on market conditions. The company stated that this decision reflects the board's confidence in CSX Corp's financial condition and long-term growth prospects.
Executive Changes Announced Concurrently On the same day, CSX Corp announced the immediate departure of Stephen Fortune, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital & Technology Officer. His responsibilities will be assumed by Steve Watkins, formerly Vice President of Railroad Operations Product Management. Watkins will report directly to Kevin S. Boone, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
Strong Track Record of Shareholder Returns CSX Corp maintains a strong record of returning value to shareholders, having increased its dividend for 21 consecutive years. In the first quarter of this year, the company delivered results exceeding expectations: revenue reached $3.48 billion, a 2% year-over-year increase; earnings per share were $0.43, representing a 26% year-over-year increase, with net profit reaching $807 million. The company had previously raised its full-year 2026 performance guidance, expecting revenue to achieve mid-single-digit growth.