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Canadian National Railway (NYSE:CNI): A Defensive Investment with Growth Potential

  • Scotiabank maintains an "Outperform" rating for NYSE:CNI, adjusting its price target from C$153 to C$150.
  • CNI is trading near its 52-week low, presenting a potential buying opportunity for long-term investors.
  • The company's strong operational efficiency and robust free cash flow highlight its stability and attractiveness for investors seeking stable returns.

Canadian National Railway (NYSE:CNI) is a major player in the North American rail industry, providing freight services across Canada and the United States. Known for its operational efficiency, CNI is a defensive, high-quality investment. The company competes with other rail giants like Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited and Union Pacific Corporation.

On October 3, 2025, Scotiabank maintained its "Outperform" rating for CNI, with a "hold" action. At that time, the stock was priced at $96.14. Scotiabank also adjusted its price target for CNI, lowering it from C$153 to C$150. This adjustment reflects a cautious yet optimistic outlook on the stock's future performance.

CNI is trading near its 52-week low, which could be a buying opportunity for long-term investors. The stock is currently priced at $96.15, showing a 1.78% increase or $1.68. Today, it fluctuated between $94.36 and $96.18. Over the past year, it reached a high of $116.79 and a low of $91.07.

CNI's strong operational efficiency and robust free cash flow make it a stable investment. The company’s disciplined cost management supports consistent dividends and share buybacks. This makes CNI attractive for investors seeking stable returns, with expected annual total returns of 12-16%.

The forward price-to-earnings ratio for CNI is below historical averages, indicating potential value. With a market capitalization of approximately $60 billion and a trading volume of 807,579 shares on the NYSE, CNI remains a significant player in the market.