### Major Rail Merger Approved: Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Take a Historic Step - On November 14, 2025, shareholders of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern overwhelmingly approved a proposed merger valued at **$85 billion**. This merger aims to create the first coast-to-coast rail network in the United States, marking a significant transformation in the rail industry. The approval comes as both companies seek to enhance operational efficiencies and expand their market reach, potentially reshaping freight transportation across the nation. *However, the merger is still subject to regulatory approval from the Surface Transportation Board, which will assess its implications for competition and service quality* [https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ns-shareholders-overwhelmingly-approve-85-154508859.html]. ### Breakdown of the Merger Approval Process 1. **Shareholder Support**: - Over **99%** of shareholders from both Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern voted in favor of the merger, indicating strong backing for the strategic union [https://bluewaterhealthyliving.com/news/business-and-economy/union-pacific-norfolk-shareholders-approve-85-billion-merger]. 2. **Strategic Implications**: - The merger is expected to create a robust transcontinental rail network, enhancing service capabilities and operational efficiencies for both companies [https://investorshangout.com/norfolk-southern-shareholders-embrace-strategic-union-pacific-merger-459444-]. 3. **Regulatory Hurdles**: - Following shareholder approval, the merger now awaits scrutiny from the Surface Transportation Board, which will evaluate the potential impact on competition within the rail industry [https://www.indexbox.io/blog/shareholders-approve-union-pacific-and-norfolk-southern-merger]. ### Key Data Points Supporting the Merger - **Shareholder Approval Rate**: - **99%** approval from Union Pacific shareholders. - **99%** approval from Norfolk Southern shareholders. - **Merger Value**: - The proposed merger is valued at **$85 billion**, positioning it as one of the largest in the rail industry [https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/business/2025/11/14/shareholders-of-union-pacific-norfolk-southern-support-us85-billion-rail-merger]. ### Conclusion: A Transformational Step for Rail Transportation 1. **Historic Approval**: The merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern represents a pivotal moment in the rail industry, with overwhelming shareholder support indicating confidence in the strategic benefits of the union. 2. **Future Prospects**: If approved by regulators, this merger could significantly enhance freight transportation efficiency across the United States, creating a comprehensive coast-to-coast rail network. 3. **Regulatory Considerations**: The next critical phase involves regulatory review, which will determine the merger's feasibility and its impact on market competition. In summary, the approval of the $85 billion merger marks a significant milestone for both companies and the rail industry as a whole, with the potential to reshape freight logistics in the U.S. [https://mynorthwest.com/national/shareholders-of-union-pacific-norfolk-southern-support-85-billion-rail-merger/4157536].