Canadian National Railway Stock Price, News & Analysis

CN announced a letter directed at shareholders ahead of the Special Meeting scheduled for March 22, 2022, responding to claims made by TCI. The letter emphasizes CN's commitment to shareholder interests and refutes TCI's allegations, characterizing them as misleading. As a vital transport network, CN manages over 300 million tons of goods annually, playing a critical role in the North American economy. The letter also highlights the risks associated with forward-looking statements and urges shareholders to consider these factors when evaluating the company’s strategy.

CN Appoints Jo-ann dePass Olsovsky to Board of Directors

On October 27, 2021, CN (CNI) announced the appointment of Jo-ann dePass Olsovsky as an independent director. With over 35 years of experience in technology and the railroad sector, Ms. Olsovsky previously served as Executive VP and CIO at Salesforce and held a leadership role at BNSF Railway. Her vast expertise in digital innovation and operational systems is expected to enhance CN's goals in safety and customer experience. Following her appointment, CN’s Board now comprises 11 directors, with 10 being independent and five women.

On October 19, 2021, TCI Fund Management highlighted the resignation of Canadian National Railway Company's CEO, J.J. Ruest, as a necessary step towards addressing corporate governance concerns. TCI criticized the Board for its previous leadership choices and operational oversight failures, advocating for timely meetings with a prospective new CEO, Jim Vena, who has extensive railway experience. TCI also called for the swift appointment of its independent nominees to the Board. TCI, owning over 5% of CN, continues to push for changes to strengthen governance.

CN announces retirement of CEO Jean-Jacques Ruest

On October 19, 2021, CN (CNI) disclosed that CEO Jean-Jacques Ruest will retire at the end of January 2022 or later, depending on the appointment of a successor. Ruest, who has been with CN for over 25 years and CEO since 2018, led the company through crucial developments, including a merger with KCS and a new strategic plan. A CEO Search Committee has been formed to identify a suitable replacement, collaborating with Korn Ferry for this global search. Ruest expressed confidence in the company’s future stability post-retirement.

CN (CNI) reported strong third-quarter 2021 results, achieving adjusted diluted EPS of C$1.52, a 10% increase, and revenues of C$3.6 billion, up 5% from 2020. Despite a 2% drop in operating income to C$1.34 billion due to costs from the terminated KCS merger, the adjusted operating ratio improved to 59.0%. Year-to-date, free cash flow was C$2.03 billion. CN reaffirmed its 2021 outlook, expecting 10% EPS growth. Challenges included impacts from wildfires and grain volume reductions, while efficiency metrics showed improvements in fuel efficiency and train speed.

CN (CNI) announced a quarterly dividend of C$0.6150 per common share, approved by its Board of Directors. This payment will be made on December 30, 2021, to shareholders recorded as of December 9, 2021. As a leading transportation and logistics company, CN plays a crucial role in North America's economy, transporting over 300 million tons of goods annually. With a rail network of 19,500 miles, CN is committed to social responsibility and environmental stewardship, contributing to community prosperity since 1919.

CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) is set to release its Q3 2021 financial and operating results on October 19, 2021, after market close. A conference call, led by JJ Ruest, CN's President and CEO, will take place at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss the results and outlook.

Participants can join the call by dialing 1-866-324-3683 (Canada/U.S.) or 1-509-844-0959 (International), using passcode 8759857. A live webcast will also be available on CN's website, with a replay accessible afterward.

TCI Fund Management has unveiled a strategic plan to enhance Canadian National Railway Company (CNI) by advocating for a new board and CEO. The plan identifies four key priorities: business growth, network investment, employee development, and environmental advocacy. It proposes the election of four independent directors and Jim Vena as CEO to improve governance and operational excellence. TCI aims to establish a high-service, low-cost network that benefits shareholders and promotes sustainability. Shareholders are encouraged to engage via the new resource site, www.CNBackOnTrack.com, leading up to the Special Meeting on March 22, 2022.

On October 5, 2021, TCI Fund Management, a significant shareholder in Canadian National Railway (CNI), announced its intention to nominate four independent directors for election at the Special Meeting scheduled for March 22, 2022. TCI emphasizes the need for a new board, citing the current board's lack of operational expertise and poor performance. The candidates nominated, including experienced railroad executives, aim to enhance governance and operational efficiency. TCI refutes claims from CN’s board regarding its motives and stresses that change is vital for CN's competitiveness and growth.