Norfolk Southern (NSC) has experienced a noticeable price increase of 25% over the last quarter. This robust upward movement is largely linked to the ongoing merger discussions with Union Pacific Corporation,

Norfolk stock traded as high as $288.11, but closed at $278, down 0.8%, while Union Pacific stock lost 4.5%, closing at $220.52. The S&P 500 added 0.1% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.7%.

The combination of two large rail companies would create the first coast-to-coast network, but the deal could reduce competition.