10-K
Table of Contents

 

 

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

 

  [X]

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

  SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014

OR

 

  [    ]

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

  SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                      to                     

Commission File Number 1-6075

UNION PACIFIC CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

UTAH     13-2626465

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

   

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

1400 DOUGLAS STREET, OMAHA, NEBRASKA

(Address of principal executive offices)

68179

(Zip Code)

(402) 544-5000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each Class

  

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock (Par Value $2.50 per share)    New York Stock Exchange, Inc.

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

þ  Yes             ¨  No            

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

¨  Yes            þ  No            

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

þ  Yes             ¨  No            

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

þ  Yes            ¨  No            

 

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.          

 

¨                  

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer   þ        Accelerated filer  ¨         Non-accelerated filer  ¨        Smaller reporting company  ¨

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).

¨  Yes             þ  No            

As of June 30, 2014, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s Common Stock held by non-affiliates (using the New York Stock Exchange closing price) was $89.4 billion.

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Common Stock as of January 30, 2015 was 881,284,029.

 

 

 

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Documents Incorporated by Reference – Portions of the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 14, 2015, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this report. The registrant’s Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A.

UNION PACIFIC CORPORATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

Chairman’s Letter

     3   
 

Directors and Senior Management

     4   
PART I   

Item 1.

 

Business

     5   

Item 1A.

 

Risk Factors

     10   

Item 1B.

 

Unresolved Staff Comments

     14   

Item 2.

 

Properties

     14   

Item 3.

 

Legal Proceedings

     16   

Item 4.

 

Mine Safety Disclosures

     18   
 

Executive Officers of the Registrant and Principal Executive Officers of Subsidiaries

     19   
PART II   

Item 5.

 

Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

     20   

Item 6.

 

Selected Financial Data

     22   

Item 7.

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

     23   
 

Critical Accounting Policies

     43   
 

Cautionary Information

     48   

Item 7A.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

     49   

Item 8.

 

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

     50   
 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     51   

Item 9.

 

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

     85   

Item 9A.

 

Controls and Procedures

     85   
 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

     86   
 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     87   

Item 9B.

 

Other Information

     88   
PART III   

Item 10.

 

Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance

     88   

Item 11.

 

Executive Compensation

     88   

Item 12.

 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

     89   

Item 13.

 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence

     89   

Item 14.

 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

     89   
PART IV   

Item 15.

 

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

     90   
 

Signatures

     91   
 

Certifications

     101   

 

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February 6, 2015

Fellow Shareholders:

I am happy to report another successful year for Union Pacific in 2014. We set numerous financial records, achieving record earnings per share of $5.75 while improving our operating ratio to a record low 63.5 percent, 2.6 points better than 2013. Our return on invested capital* was an all-time high of 16.2 percent, up 1.5 percentage points year-over-year. As a result, Union Pacific was able to reward its shareholders with increased returns in 2014. We increased our quarterly declared dividend per share twice last year, with total dividends declared for 2014 growing 29 percent compared to the full year 2013. We also repurchased $3.2 billion in Union Pacific shares, a 45 percent increase from 2013. UP’s stock price reached an all-time high in 2014, increasing 42 percent, and outpacing the S&P 500 by 30 percentage points.

Union Pacific handled robust volume growth of 7 percent last year. A record grain harvest and increased frac sand shipments drove particularly strong growth in Agricultural Products and Industrial Products, respectively. Increased international volumes and continued highway-to-rail conversions also drove strong growth in Intermodal. Our Automotive and Coal businesses recorded modest volume gains over 2013, while our Chemicals business was up slightly, as growth in base chemicals more than offset a decline in crude-by-rail shipments during the year.

Throughout the year we maintained our unrelenting focus on safety. We achieved an all-time record low reportable personal injury rate while the reportable rate for rail equipment incidents improved 7 percent over last year. The team has made great progress on our way toward achieving our ultimate goal of an incident free environment. Our commitment to risk reduction, Courage to Care, and Total Safety Culture will continue to lead the way so that every employee returns home safely.

Strong carload growth combined with significant weather disruptions to affect the performance of our network during 2014. Average system velocity, as reported to the AAR, decreased 8 percent and average terminal dwell increased 12 percent when compared to 2013. Throughout 2014 we worked hard to improve the fluidity of our network and the service we provided to our customers. In total, we increased our TE&Y workforce by more than 1,700 employees and added around 800 locomotives, including 261 new units, to our active fleet. We are encouraged by the progress we have made, and remain committed to further improvement.

Our capital program helps ensure we have the resources and network capacity required to handle our current volumes as well as future growth. In total we spent $4.1 billion in 2014, strengthening the franchise. This included $2.3 billion in replacement capital to harden our infrastructure, and to improve the safety and resiliency of our network. In addition, we spent $1.4 billion on service, growth, and productivity initiatives driven by investments in capacity, commercial facilities, and equipment. We also continued to make progress toward completing the federally mandated Positive Train Control project. Going forward, we will continue to focus on generating the strong returns needed to support our ongoing capital investment.

With our extensive geographic coverage, our unparalleled access to Gulf and West Coast ports, and the industry’s best access to Mexico, Union Pacific is well-positioned to compete successfully across a wide variety of business segments. In a dynamic environment, this diversity is a great strength of our franchise, which will enable us to serve the growing markets of tomorrow.

As always, there will be challenges to overcome in the year ahead, but we also see growth opportunities to be realized across many of our business sectors. Efficiency is also a cornerstone of our success, and we will continue to build on the progress we’ve made in improving our network capabilities so we can provide the safe, reliable service our customers expect and deserve.

I could not be more proud of the dedicated men and women of Union Pacific who have worked so hard to achieve our success this past year. I am confident that our team will continue to develop the potential of our strong franchise, enhancing the value proposition for our customers, and providing increasing returns for our shareholders.

 

LOGO

Chairman

 

  3   *See Item 7 of this report for reconciliations to U.S. GAAP.


Table of Contents

DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Andrew H. Card, Jr.

President

Franklin Pierce University

Board Committees: Audit, Compensation and Benefits

 

Erroll B. Davis, Jr.

Former Chairman,

President & CEO

Alliant Energy Corporation

Board Committees: Compensation

and Benefits (Chair), Corporate

Governance and Nominating

 

David B. Dillon

Former Chairman

The Kroger Company

Board Committees: Audit,

Compensation and Benefits

 

Lance M. Fritz

President and

Chief Executive Officer

Union Pacific Corporation and

Union Pacific Railroad Company

  

Judith Richards Hope

Emerita Professor of Law and

Distinguished Visitor from Practice

Georgetown University Law Center

Board Committees: Corporate

Governance and Nominating,

Finance

 

John J. Koraleski

Chairman of the Board

Union Pacific Corporation and

Union Pacific Railroad Company

 

Charles C. Krulak

General, USMC, Ret.

President

Birmingham – Southern College

Board Committees: Audit, Finance

 

Michael R. McCarthy

Chairman

McCarthy Group, LLC

Board Committees: Corporate

Governance and Nominating,

Finance (Chair)

  

Michael W. McConnell

General Partner and

Former Managing Partner

Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.

Board Committees: Audit (Chair),

Finance

 

Thomas F. McLarty III

President

McLarty Associates

Board Committees: Finance,

Corporate Governance and

Nominating

 

Steven R. Rogel

Former Chairman

Weyerhaeuser Company

Lead Independent Director

Board Committees: Compensation

and Benefits, Corporate Governance

and Nominating (Chair)

 

Jose H. Villarreal

Advisor

Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer &

Feld, LLP

Board Committees: Audit,

Compensation and Benefits

 

SENIOR MANAGEMENT

     

John J. Koraleski

Chairman of the Board

Union Pacific Corporation and

Union Pacific Railroad Company

 

Lance M. Fritz

President and

Chief Executive Officer

Union Pacific Corporation and

Union Pacific Railroad Company

 

Eric L. Butler

Executive Vice President-

Marketing and Sales

Union Pacific Railroad Company

 

Diane K. Duren

Executive Vice President and

Corporate Secretary

Union Pacific Corporation

 

Mary Sanders Jones

Vice President and Treasurer

Union Pacific Corporation

  

D. Lynn Kelley

Vice President–Supply and

Continuous Improvement

Union Pacific Railroad Company

 

Robert M. Knight, Jr.

Executive Vice President–Finance

and Chief Financial Officer

Union Pacific Corporation

 

Joseph E. O’Connor, Jr.

Vice President–Labor Relations

Union Pacific Railroad Company

 

Patrick J. O’Malley

Vice President–Taxes and General

Tax Counsel

Union Pacific Corporation

 

Michael A. Rock

Vice President–External Relations

Union Pacific Corporation

  

Cameron A. Scott

Executive Vice President –

Operations

Union Pacific Railroad Company

 

Lynden L. Tennison

Senior Vice President and

Chief Information Officer

Union Pacific Corporation

 

Gayla L. Thal

Senior Vice President–Law

and General Counsel

Union Pacific Corporation

 

Jeffrey P. Totusek

Vice President and Controller

Union Pacific Corporation

 

Robert W. Turner

Senior Vice President–

Corporate Relations

Union Pacific Corporation

 

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PART I

Item 1. Business

GENERAL

Union Pacific Railroad is the principal operating company of Union Pacific Corporation. One of America’s most recognized companies, Union Pacific Railroad links 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country by rail, providing a critical link in the global supply chain. The Railroad’s diversified business mix includes Agricultural Products, Automotive, Chemicals, Coal, Industrial Products and Intermodal. Union Pacific serves many of the fastest-growing U.S. population centers, operates from all major West Coast and Gulf Coast ports to eastern gateways, connects with Canada’s rail systems and is the only railroad serving all six major Mexico gateways. Union Pacific provides value to its roughly 10,000 customers by delivering products in a safe, reliable, fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible manner.

Union Pacific Corporation was incorporated in Utah in 1969 and maintains its principal executive offices at 1400 Douglas Street, Omaha, NE 68179. The telephone number at that address is (402) 544-5000. The common stock of Union Pacific Corporation is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “UNP”.

For purposes of this report, unless the context otherwise requires, all references herein to “UPC”, “Corporation”, “Company”, “we”, “us”, and “our” shall mean Union Pacific Corporation and its subsidiaries, including Union Pacific Railroad Company, which we separately refer to as “UPRR” or the “Railroad”.

Available Information – Our Internet website is www.up.com. We make available free of charge on our website (under the “Investors” caption link) our Annual Reports on Form 10-K; our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q; eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) documents; our current reports on Form 8-K; our proxy statements; Forms 3, 4, and 5, filed on behalf of our directors and certain executive officers; and amendments to such reports filed or furnished pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). We provide these reports and statements as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). We also make available on our website previously filed SEC reports and exhibits via a link to EDGAR on the SEC’s Internet site at www.sec.gov. Additionally, our corporate governance materials, including By-Laws, Board Committee charters, governance guidelines and policies, and codes of conduct and ethics for directors, officers, and employees are available on our website. From time to time, the corporate governance materials on our website may be updated as necessary to comply with rules issued by the SEC and the NYSE or as desirable to promote the effective and efficient governance of our company. Any security holder wishing to receive, without charge, a copy of any of our SEC filings or corporate governance materials should send a written request to: Secretary, Union Pacific Corporation, 1400 Douglas Street, Omaha, NE 68179.

We have included the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) certifications regarding our public disclosure required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 as Exhibits 31(a) and (b) to this report.

References to our website address in this report, including references in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Item 7, are provided as a convenience and do not constitute, and should not be deemed, an incorporation by reference of the information contained on, or available through, the website. Therefore, such information should not be considered part of this report.

OPERATIONS

The Railroad, along with its subsidiaries and rail affiliates, is our one reportable operating segment. Although we provide revenue by commodity group, we analyze the net financial results of the Railroad as one segment due to the integrated nature of our rail network. Additional information regarding our business and operations, including revenue and financial information and data and other information regarding environmental matters, is presented in Risk Factors, Item 1A; Legal Proceedings, Item 3; Selected Financial Data, Item 6; Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Item 7; and the Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Item 8 (which include information regarding revenues, statements of income, and total assets).

 

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Operations – UPRR is a Class I railroad operating in the U.S. We have 31,974 route miles, linking Pacific Coast and Gulf Coast ports with the Midwest and eastern U.S. gateways and providing several corridors to key Mexican gateways. We serve the Western two-thirds of the country and maintain coordinated schedules with other rail carriers to move freight to and from the Atlantic Coast, the Pacific Coast, the Southeast, the Southwest, Canada, and Mexico. Export and import traffic moves through Gulf Coast and Pacific Coast ports and across the Mexican and Canadian borders. Our freight traffic consists of bulk, manifest, and premium business. Bulk traffic primarily consists of coal, grain, soda ash, ethanol, rock and crude oil shipped in unit trains – trains transporting a single commodity from one source to one destination. Manifest traffic includes individual carload or less than train-load business involving

 

2014 Freight Revenue

 

LOGO

commodities such as lumber, steel, paper, food and chemicals. The transportation of finished vehicles, auto parts, intermodal containers and truck trailers are included as part of our premium business. In 2014, we generated freight revenues totaling $22.6 billion from the following six commodity groups:

Agricultural Products – Transportation of grains, commodities produced from these grains, and food and beverage products generated 17% of the Railroad’s 2014 freight revenue. The Company accesses most major grain markets, linking the Midwest and Western U.S. producing areas to export terminals in the Pacific Northwest and Gulf Coast ports, as well as Mexico. We also serve significant domestic markets, including grain processors, animal feeders and ethanol producers in the Midwest, West, South and Rocky Mountain states. Unit trains, which transport a single commodity between producers and export terminals or domestic markets, represent approximately 42% of our agricultural shipments.

Automotive – We are the largest automotive carrier west of the Mississippi River and operate or access over 40 vehicle distribution centers. The Railroad’s extensive franchise serves five vehicle assembly plants and connects to West Coast ports, Mexico gateways and the Gulf of Mexico to accommodate both import and export shipments. In addition to transporting finished vehicles, UPRR provides expedited handling of automotive parts in both boxcars and intermodal containers destined for Mexico, the U.S. and Canada. The automotive group generated 9% of Union Pacific’s freight revenue in 2014.

Chemicals – Transporting chemicals generated 16% of our freight revenue in 2014. The Railroad’s unique franchise serves the chemical producing areas along the Gulf Coast, where roughly 60% of the Company’s chemical business originates, terminates or travels. Our chemical franchise also accesses chemical producers in the Rocky Mountains and on the West Coast. The Company’s chemical shipments include four broad categories: petrochemicals, fertilizer, soda ash, and other. Petrochemicals include industrial chemicals, plastics, and petroleum products, including crude oil and liquid petroleum gases. Currently, these products move primarily to and from the Gulf Coast region. Fertilizer movements originate in the Gulf Coast region, the western U.S. and Canada (through interline access) for delivery to major agricultural users in the Midwest, western U.S., as well as abroad. Soda ash originates in southwestern Wyoming and California, destined for chemical and glass producing markets in North America and abroad. Other shipments include sodium products, phosphorus rock and sulfur.

Coal – Shipments of coal and petroleum coke accounted for 18% of our freight revenue in 2014. The Railroad’s network supports the transportation of coal and petroleum coke to independent and regulated power companies and industrial facilities throughout the U.S. Through interchange gateways and ports, UPRR’s reach extends to eastern U.S. utilities, Mexico, Europe and Asia. Water terminals allow the Railroad to move western U.S. coal east via the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, as well as the Great Lakes. Export coal moves through West Coast ports to Asia and through the Mississippi River and Houston to Europe. Coal traffic originating in the Southern Powder River Basin (SPRB) area of Wyoming is the largest segment of the Railroad’s coal business.

Industrial Products – Our extensive network facilitates the movement of numerous commodities between thousands of origin and destination points throughout North America. The Industrial Products group consists of several categories, including construction products, minerals, consumer goods, metals,

 

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lumber, paper, and other miscellaneous products. In 2014, this group generated 20% of Union Pacific’s total freight revenue. Commercial, residential and governmental infrastructure investments drive shipments of steel, aggregates (cement components), cement and wood products. Oil and gas drilling generates demand for raw steel, finished pipe, frac sand, stone and drilling fluid commodities. Industrial and light manufacturing plants receive steel, nonferrous materials, minerals and other raw materials. Paper and packaging commodities, as well as appliances, move to major metropolitan areas for consumers. Lumber shipments originate primarily in the Pacific Northwest and western Canada and move throughout the U.S. for use in new home construction and repair and remodeling.

Intermodal – Our Intermodal business includes two segments: international and domestic. International business consists of import and export container traffic that mainly passes through West Coast ports served by UPRR’s extensive terminal network. Domestic business includes container and trailer traffic picked up and delivered within North America for intermodal marketing companies (primarily shipper agents and logistics companies), as well as truckload carriers. Less-than-truckload and package carriers with time-sensitive business requirements are also an important part of domestic shipments. Together, international and domestic business generated 20% of UPC’s 2014 freight revenue.

Seasonality – Some of the commodities we carry have peak shipping seasons, reflecting either or both the nature of the commodity (such as certain agricultural and food products that have specific growing and harvesting seasons) and the demand cycle for the commodity (such as intermodal traffic that generally peaks during the third quarter to meet holiday-related demand for consumer goods during the fourth quarter). The peak shipping seasons for these commodities can vary considerably each year depending upon various factors, including the strength of domestic and international economies and currencies and the strength of harvests and market prices for agricultural products. In response to an annual request from the Surface Transportation Board (STB) of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to all of the Class I railroads operating in the U.S., we submit a publicly available letter during the third quarter detailing our plans for handling traffic during the third and fourth quarters and providing other information requested by the STB.

Working Capital – At December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had a modest working capital surplus, which provides enhanced liquidity. In addition, we believe we have adequate access to capital markets to meet any foreseeable cash requirements, and we have sufficient financial capacity to satisfy our current liabilities.

Competition – We are subject to competition from other railroads, motor carriers, ship and barge operators, and pipelines. Our main railroad competitor is Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC. Its primary subsidiary, BNSF Railway Company (BNSF), operates parallel routes in many of our main traffic corridors. In addition, we operate in corridors served by other railroads and motor carriers. Motor carrier competition exists for five of our six commodity groups (excluding most coal shipments). Because of the proximity of our routes to major inland and Gulf Coast waterways, barges can be particularly competitive, especially for grain and bulk commodities in certain areas where we operate. In addition to price competition, we face competition with respect to transit times, quality and reliability of service from motor carriers and other railroads. Motor carriers in particular can have an advantage over railroads with respect to transit times and timeliness of service. However, railroads are much more fuel-efficient than trucks, which reduces the impact of transporting goods on the environment and public infrastructure, and we have been making efforts to convert certain truck traffic to rail. Additionally, we must build or acquire and maintain our rail system; trucks and barges are able to use public rights-of-way maintained by public entities. Any of the following could also affect the competitiveness of our transportation services for some or all of our commodities: (i) improvements or expenditures materially increasing the quality or reducing the costs of these alternative modes of transportation, (ii) legislation that eliminates or significantly reduces the size or weight limitations applied to motor carriers, or (iii) legislation or regulatory changes that impose operating restrictions on railroads or that adversely affect the profitability of some or all railroad traffic. For more information regarding risks we face from competition, see the Risk Factors in Item 1A of this report.

Key Suppliers – We depend on two key domestic suppliers of high horsepower locomotives. Due to the capital intensive nature of the locomotive manufacturing business and sophistication of this equipment, potential new suppliers face high barriers of entry into this industry. Therefore, if one of these domestic suppliers discontinues manufacturing locomotives for any reason, including insolvency or bankruptcy, we could experience a significant cost increase and risk reduced availability of the locomotives that are necessary to our operations. Additionally, for a high percentage of our rail purchases, we utilize two steel

 

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producers (one domestic and one international) that meet our specifications. Rail is critical for maintenance, replacement, improvement, and expansion of our network and facilities. Rail manufacturing also has high barriers of entry, and, if one of those suppliers discontinues operations for any reason, including insolvency or bankruptcy, we could experience cost increases and difficulty obtaining rail.

Employees – Approximately 85% of our 47,201 full-time-equivalent employees are represented by 14 major rail unions. On January 1, 2015, current labor agreements became subject to modification and we began the current round of negotiations with the unions. Existing agreements remain in effect until new agreements are reached or the Railway Labor Act’s procedures (which include mediation, cooling-off periods, and the possibility of Presidential Emergency Boards and Congressional intervention) are exhausted. Contract negotiations historically continue for an extended period of time and we rarely experience work stoppages while negotiations are pending.

Railroad Security – Our security efforts consist of a wide variety of measures including employee training, engagement with our customers, training of emergency responders, and partnerships with numerous federal, state, and local government agencies. While federal law requires us to protect the confidentiality of our security plans designed to safeguard against terrorism and other security incidents, the following provides a general overview of our security initiatives.

UPRR Security Measures – We maintain a comprehensive security plan designed to both deter and respond to any potential or actual threats as they arise. The plan includes four levels of alert status, each with its own set of countermeasures. We employ our own police force, consisting of more than 200 commissioned and highly-trained officers. Our employees also undergo recurrent security and preparedness training, as well as federally-mandated hazardous materials and security training. We regularly review the sufficiency of our employee training programs. We maintain the capability to move critical operations to back-up facilities in different locations.

We operate an emergency response management center 24 hours a day. The center receives reports of emergencies, dangerous or potentially dangerous conditions, and other safety and security issues from our employees, the public, and law enforcement and other government officials. In cooperation with government officials, we monitor both threats and public events, and, as necessary, we may alter rail traffic flow at times of concern to minimize risk to communities and our operations. We comply with the hazardous materials routing rules and other requirements imposed by federal law. We also design our operating plan to expedite the movement of hazardous material shipments to minimize the time rail cars remain idle at yards and terminals located in or near major population centers. Additionally, in compliance with Transportation Security Agency regulations, we deployed information systems and instructed employees in tracking and documenting the handoff of Rail Security Sensitive Materials with customers and interchange partners.

We also have established a number of our own innovative safety and security-oriented initiatives ranging from various investments in technology to The Officer on the Train program, which provides local law enforcement officers with the opportunity to ride with train crews to enhance their understanding of railroad operations and risks. Our staff of information security professionals continually assesses cyber security risks and implements mitigation programs that evolve with the changing technology threat environment. To date, we have not experienced any material disruption of our operations due to a cyber threat or attack directed at us.

Cooperation with Federal, State, and Local Government Agencies – We work closely on physical and cyber security initiatives with government agencies, including the DOT and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as well as local police departments, fire departments, and other first responders. In conjunction with the Association of American Railroads (AAR), we sponsor Ask Rail, a mobile application which provides first responders with secure links to electronic information, including commodity and emergency response information required by emergency personnel to respond to accidents and other situations. We also participate in the National Joint Terrorism Task Force, a multi-agency effort established by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to combat and prevent terrorism.

We work with the Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Military Transport Management Command, which monitor shipments entering the UPRR rail network at U.S. border crossings and ports. We were the first railroad in the U.S. to be named a partner in CBP’s Customs-

 

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Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, a partnership designed to develop, enhance, and maintain effective security processes throughout the global supply chain.

Cooperation with Customers and Trade Associations – Through TransCAER (Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response) we work with the AAR, the American Chemistry Council, the American Petroleum Institute, and other chemical trade groups to provide communities with preparedness tools, including the training of emergency responders. In cooperation with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and other interested groups, we are also working to develop additional improvements to tank car design that will further limit the risk of releases of hazardous materials.

GOVERNMENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION

Governmental Regulation – Our operations are subject to a variety of federal, state, and local regulations, generally applicable to all businesses. (See also the discussion of certain regulatory proceedings in Legal Proceedings, Item 3.)

The operations of the Railroad are also subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of the STB. The STB has jurisdiction over rates charged on certain regulated rail traffic; common carrier service of regulated traffic; freight car compensation; transfer, extension, or abandonment of rail lines; and acquisition of control of rail common carriers. In 2014, the STB continued its efforts to explore whether to expand rail regulation. The STB has requested parties to discuss the STB’s methodology for determining railroad revenue adequacy and the possible use of a revenue adequacy constraint in regulating railroad rates. The STB also held hearings to evaluate the potential impact of expanded reciprocal switching arrangements on railroads. For the past several legislative sessions, proposed bills have been introduced in Congress that aim to alter the regulatory structure of the railroad industry. We will continue to monitor any legislative activity involving rail and transportation regulation and respond accordingly.

The operations of the Railroad also are subject to the regulations of the FRA and other federal and state agencies. On January 12, 2010, the FRA issued initial rules governing installation of Positive Train Control (PTC) by the end of 2015. The final regulation was issued on August 8, 2014. Although still under development, PTC is a collision avoidance technology intended to override engineer controlled locomotives and stop train-to-train and overspeed accidents, misaligned switch derailments, and unauthorized entry to work zones. Following the issuance of the initial rules, the FRA acknowledged that projected costs will exceed projected benefits by a ratio of at least 22 to one, and we estimate that our costs will be higher than those assumed by the FRA. In August 2012, the FRA provided Congress with a status report regarding implementation of PTC. This report indicated that the rail industry will likely achieve only partial deployment of PTC by the current deadline due to significant technical developments, training and deployment, and the delay in issuing the final rule. Through 2014, we have invested approximately $1.6 billion in the development of PTC. The Company is planning to submit its PTC safety plan to the FRA in the second quarter of 2015.

On August 1, 2014, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued proposed rules concerning the transportation of certain flammable liquids. The proposed rules include a variety of possible measures including tank car standards, speed restrictions, braking system requirements, community notification, and operating restrictions. We, along with others in the rail industry, submitted comments concerning the proposed rules. Railroad operations for the entire industry could be impacted depending on the outcome of the final rules. We will continue to monitor this rulemaking process.

DOT, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, PHMSA and DHS, along with other federal agencies, have jurisdiction over certain aspects of safety, movement of hazardous materials and hazardous waste, emissions requirements, and equipment standards. The Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, among other things, revised hours of service rules for train and certain other railroad employees, mandated implementation of PTC, imposed passenger service requirements, addressed safety at rail crossings, increased the number of safety related employees of the FRA, and increased fines that may be levied against railroads for safety violations. Additionally, various state and local agencies have jurisdiction over disposal of hazardous waste and seek to regulate movement of hazardous materials in ways not preempted by federal law.

Environmental Regulation – We are subject to extensive federal and state environmental statutes and regulations pertaining to public health and the environment. The statutes and regulations are

 

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administered and monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and by various state environmental agencies. The primary laws affecting our operations are the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, regulating the management and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes; the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, regulating the cleanup of contaminated properties; the Clean Air Act, regulating air emissions; and the Clean Water Act, regulating waste water discharges.

Information concerning environmental claims and contingencies and estimated remediation costs is set forth in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Critical Accounting Policies – Environmental, Item 7 and Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

The information set forth in this Item 1A should be read in conjunction with the rest of the information included in this report, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Item 7, and Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Item 8.

We Must Manage Fluctuating Demand for Our Services and Network Capacity – If there is significant demand for our services that exceeds the designed capacity of our network, we may experience network difficulties, including congestion and reduced velocity, that could compromise the level of service we provide to our customers. This level of demand may also compound the impact of weather and weather-related events on our operations and velocity. Although we continue to improve our transportation plan, add capacity, improve operations at our yards and other facilities, and improve our ability to address surges in demand for any reason with adequate resources, we cannot be sure that these measures will fully or adequately address any service shortcomings resulting from demand exceeding our planned capacity. We may experience other operational or service difficulties related to network capacity, dramatic and unplanned fluctuations in demand for rail service with respect to one or more commodities or operating regions, or other events that could negatively impact our operational efficiency, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. In the event that we experience significant reductions in demand for rail services with respect to one or more commodities, we may experience increased costs associated with resizing our operations, including higher unit operating costs and costs for the storage of locomotives, rail cars, and other equipment; work-force adjustments; and other related activities, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We Transport Hazardous Materials – We transport certain hazardous materials and other materials, including crude oil, ethanol, and toxic inhalation hazard (TIH) materials, such as chlorine, that pose certain risks in the event of a release or combustion. Additionally, U.S. laws impose common carrier obligations on railroads that require us to transport certain hazardous materials regardless of risk or potential exposure to loss. A rail accident or other incident or accident on our network, at our facilities, or at the facilities of our customers involving the release or combustion of hazardous materials could involve significant costs and claims for personal injury, property damage, and environmental penalties and remediation in excess of our insurance coverage for these risks, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We Are Subject to Significant Governmental Regulation – We are subject to governmental regulation by a significant number of federal, state, and local authorities covering a variety of health, safety, labor, environmental, economic (as discussed below), and other matters. Many laws and regulations require us to obtain and maintain various licenses, permits, and other authorizations, and we cannot guarantee that we will continue to be able to do so. Our failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on us. Governments or regulators may change the legislative or regulatory frameworks within which we operate without providing us any recourse to address any adverse effects on our business, including, without limitation, regulatory determinations or rules regarding dispute resolution, business relationships with other railroads, calculation of our cost of capital or other inputs relevant to computing our revenue adequacy, the prices we charge, and costs and expenses. Significant legislative activity in Congress or regulatory activity by the STB could expand regulation of railroad operations and prices for rail services, which could reduce capital spending on our rail network, facilities and equipment and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. As part of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, rail carriers must currently implement PTC by the end of 2015, which could have a material adverse effect on our ability to make other capital investments. Rail

 

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carriers likely will not meet the current mandatory deadline for PTC implementation due to various factors. Additionally, one or more consolidations of Class I railroads could also lead to increased regulation of the rail industry.

We May Be Affected by General Economic Conditions – Prolonged severe adverse domestic and global economic conditions or disruptions of financial and credit markets may affect the producers and consumers of the commodities we carry and may have a material adverse effect on our access to liquidity and our results of operations and financial condition.

We Face Competition from Other Railroads and Other Transportation Providers – We face competition from other railroads, motor carriers, ships, barges, and pipelines. In addition to price competition, we face competition with respect to transit times and quality and reliability of service. While we must build or acquire and maintain our rail system, trucks, barges and maritime operators are able to use public rights-of-way maintained by public entities. Any future improvements or expenditures materially increasing the quality or reducing the cost of alternative modes of transportation, or legislation that eliminates or significantly reduces the burden of the size or weight limitations currently applicable to motor carriers, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. Additionally, any future consolidation of the rail industry could materially affect the competitive environment in which we operate.

Severe Weather Could Result in Significant Business Interruptions and Expenditures – As a railroad with a vast network, we are exposed to severe weather conditions and other natural phenomena, including earthquakes, hurricanes, fires, floods, mudslides or landslides, extreme temperatures, and significant precipitation. Line outages and other interruptions caused by these conditions can adversely affect our entire rail network and can adversely affect revenue, costs, and liabilities, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We Rely on Technology and Technology Improvements in Our Business Operations – We rely on information technology in all aspects of our business. If we do not have sufficient capital to acquire new technology or if we are unable to develop or implement new technology such as PTC or the latest version of our transportation control systems, we may suffer a competitive disadvantage within the rail industry and with companies providing other modes of transportation service, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. Additionally, if a cyber attack or other event causes significant disruption or failure of one or more of our information technology systems, including computer hardware, software, and communications equipment, we could suffer a significant service interruption, safety failure, security breach, or other operational difficulties, which could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We May Be Subject to Various Claims and Lawsuits That Could Result in Significant Expenditures – As a railroad with operations in densely populated urban areas and other cities and a vast rail network, we are exposed to the potential for various claims and litigation related to labor and employment, personal injury, property damage, environmental liability, and other matters. Any material changes to litigation trends or a catastrophic rail accident or series of accidents involving any or all of property damage, personal injury, and environmental liability that exceed our insurance coverage for such risks could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We Are Subject to Significant Environmental Laws and Regulations – Due to the nature of the railroad business, our operations are subject to extensive federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations concerning, among other things, emissions to the air; discharges to waters; handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste and other materials; and hazardous material or petroleum releases. We generate and transport hazardous and non-hazardous waste in our operations, and we did so in our former operations. Environmental liability can extend to previously owned or operated properties, leased properties, and properties owned by third parties, as well as to properties we currently own. Environmental liabilities have arisen and may also arise from claims asserted by adjacent landowners or other third parties in toxic tort litigation. We have been and may be subject to allegations or findings that we have violated, or are strictly liable under, these laws or regulations. We currently have certain obligations at existing sites for investigation, remediation and monitoring, and we likely will have obligations at other sites in the future. Liabilities for these obligations affect our estimate based on our experience and, as necessary, the advice and assistance of our consultants. However, actual costs may vary from our estimates due to any or all of several factors, including changes to environmental laws or interpretations of such laws, technological changes affecting investigations and remediation, the

 

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participation and financial viability of other parties responsible for any such liability and the corrective action or change to corrective actions required to remediate any existing or future sites. We could incur significant costs as a result of any of the foregoing, and we may be required to incur significant expenses to investigate and remediate known, unknown, or future environmental contamination, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We May Be Affected by Climate Change and Market or Regulatory Responses to Climate Change – Climate change, including the impact of global warming, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. Restrictions, caps, taxes, or other controls on emissions of greenhouse gasses, including diesel exhaust, could significantly increase our operating costs. Restrictions on emissions could also affect our customers that (a) use commodities that we carry to produce energy, (b) use significant amounts of energy in producing or delivering the commodities we carry, or (c) manufacture or produce goods that consume significant amounts of energy or burn fossil fuels, including chemical producers, farmers and food producers, and automakers and other manufacturers. Significant cost increases, government regulation, or changes of consumer preferences for goods or services relating to alternative sources of energy or emissions reductions could materially affect the markets for the commodities we carry, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. Government incentives encouraging the use of alternative sources of energy could also affect certain of our customers and the markets for certain of the commodities we carry in an unpredictable manner that could alter our traffic patterns, including, for example, the impacts of ethanol incentives on farming and ethanol producers. Finally, we could face increased costs related to defending and resolving legal claims and other litigation related to climate change and the alleged impact of our operations on climate change. Any of these factors, individually or in operation with one or more of the other factors, or other unforeseen impacts of climate change could reduce the amount of traffic we handle and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

Strikes or Work Stoppages Could Adversely Affect Our Operations – The U.S. Class I railroads are party to collective bargaining agreements with various labor unions. The majority of our employees belong to labor unions and are subject to these agreements. Disputes with regard to the terms of these agreements or our potential inability to negotiate acceptable contracts with these unions could result in, among other things, strikes, work stoppages, slowdowns, or lockouts, which could cause a significant disruption of our operations and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. Additionally, future national labor agreements, or renegotiation of labor agreements or provisions of labor agreements, could compromise our service reliability or significantly increase our costs for health care, wages, and other benefits, which could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

The Availability of Qualified Personnel Could Adversely Affect Our Operations – Changes in demographics, training requirements, and the availability of qualified personnel could negatively affect our ability to meet demand for rail service. Unpredictable increases in demand for rail services and a lack of network fluidity may exacerbate such risks, which could have a negative impact on our operational efficiency and otherwise have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We May Be Affected By Fluctuating Fuel Prices – Fuel costs constitute a significant portion of our transportation expenses. Diesel fuel prices can be subject to dramatic fluctuations, and significant price increases could have a material adverse effect on our operating results. Although we currently are able to recover a significant amount of our fuel expenses from our customers through revenue from fuel surcharges, we cannot be certain that we will always be able to mitigate rising or elevated fuel costs through our fuel surcharges. Additionally, future market conditions or legislative or regulatory activities could adversely affect our ability to apply fuel surcharges or adequately recover increased fuel costs through fuel surcharges. As fuel prices fluctuate, our fuel surcharge programs trail such fluctuations in fuel price by approximately two months, and may be a significant source of quarter-over-quarter and year-over-year volatility, particularly in periods of rapidly changing prices. International, political, and economic factors, events and conditions affect the volatility of fuel prices and supplies. Weather can also affect fuel supplies and limit domestic refining capacity. A severe shortage of, or disruption to, domestic fuel supplies could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. Alternatively, lower fuel prices could have a positive impact on the economy by increasing consumer discretionary spending that potentially could increase demand for various consumer products we transport. However, lower fuel prices could have a negative impact on other commodities we

 

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transport, such as coal, frac sand and crude oil shipments, which could have a material adverse affect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We Utilize Capital Markets – Due to the significant capital expenditures required to operate and maintain a safe and efficient railroad, we rely on the capital markets to provide some of our capital requirements. We utilize long-term debt instruments, bank financing and commercial paper from time-to-time, and we pledge certain of our receivables. Significant instability or disruptions of the capital markets, including the credit markets, or deterioration of our financial condition due to internal or external factors could restrict or prohibit our access to, and significantly increase the cost of, commercial paper and other financing sources, including bank credit facilities and the issuance of long-term debt, including corporate bonds. A significant deterioration of our financial condition could result in a reduction of our credit rating to below investment grade, which could restrict, or at certain credit levels below investment grade may prohibit us, from utilizing our current receivables securitization facility. This may also limit our access to external sources of capital and significantly increase the costs of short and long-term debt financing.

A Significant Portion of Our Revenue Involves Transportation of Commodities to and from International Markets – Although revenues from our operations are attributable to transportation services provided in the U.S., a significant portion of our revenues involves the transportation of commodities to and from international markets, including Mexico and Southeast Asia, by various carriers and, at times, various modes of transportation. Significant and sustained interruptions of trade with Mexico or countries in Southeast Asia, including China, could adversely affect customers and other entities that, directly or indirectly, purchase or rely on rail transportation services in the U.S. as part of their operations, and any such interruptions could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. Any one or more of the following could cause a significant and sustained interruption of trade with Mexico or countries in Southeast Asia: (a) a deterioration of security for international trade and businesses; (b) the adverse impact of new laws, rules and regulations or the interpretation of laws, rules and regulations by government entities, courts or regulatory bodies, including taxing authorities, that affect our customers doing business in foreign countries; (c) any significant adverse economic developments, such as extended periods of high inflation, material disruptions in the banking sector or in the capital markets of these foreign countries, and significant changes in the valuation of the currencies of these foreign countries that could materially affect the cost or value of imports or exports; (d) shifts in patterns of international trade that adversely affect import and export markets; and (e) a material reduction in foreign direct investment in these countries.

We Are Subject to Legislative, Regulatory, and Legal Developments Involving Taxes – Taxes are a significant part of our expenses. We are subject to U.S. federal, state, and foreign income, payroll, property, sales and use, fuel, and other types of taxes. Changes in tax rates, enactment of new tax laws, revisions of tax regulations, and claims or litigation with taxing authorities could result in substantially higher taxes and, therefore, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

We Are Dependent on Certain Key Suppliers of Locomotives and Rail – Due to the capital intensive nature and sophistication of locomotive equipment, potential new suppliers face high barriers to entry. Therefore, if one of the domestic suppliers of high horsepower locomotives discontinues manufacturing locomotives for any reason, including bankruptcy or insolvency, we could experience significant cost increases and reduced availability of the locomotives that are necessary for our operations. Additionally, for a high percentage of our rail purchases, we utilize two steel producers (one domestic and one international) that meet our specifications. Rail is critical to our operations for rail replacement programs, maintenance, and for adding additional network capacity, new rail and storage yards, and expansions of existing facilities. This industry similarly has high barriers to entry, and if one of these suppliers discontinues operations for any reason, including bankruptcy or insolvency, we could experience both significant cost increases for rail purchases and difficulty obtaining sufficient rail for maintenance and other projects.

We May Be Affected by Acts of Terrorism, War, or Risk of War – Our rail lines, facilities, and equipment, including rail cars carrying hazardous materials, could be direct targets or indirect casualties of terrorist attacks. Terrorist attacks, or other similar events, any government response thereto, and war or risk of war may adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. In addition, insurance premiums for some or all of our current coverages could increase dramatically, or certain coverages may not be available to us in the future.

 

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Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2. Properties

We employ a variety of assets in the management and operation of our rail business. Our rail network covers 23 states in the western two-thirds of the U.S.

 

 

LOGO

TRACK

Our rail network includes 31,974 route miles. We own 26,012 miles and operate on the remainder pursuant to trackage rights or leases. The following table describes track miles at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 

      2014       2013   

Route

     31,974          31,838    

Other main line

     6,943          6,766    

Passing lines and turnouts

     3,197          3,167    

Switching and classification yard lines

     9,058          9,090    

 

Total miles

     51,172          50,861    
                   

HEADQUARTERS BUILDING

We own our headquarters building in Omaha, Nebraska. The facility has 1.2 million square feet of space for approximately 4,000 employees.

 

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HARRIMAN DISPATCHING CENTER

The Harriman Dispatching Center (HDC), located in Omaha, Nebraska, is our primary dispatching facility. It is linked to regional dispatching and locomotive management facilities at various locations along our network. HDC employees coordinate moves of locomotives and trains, manage traffic and train crews on our network, and coordinate interchanges with other railroads. Approximately 900 employees currently work on-site in the facility. In the event of a disruption of operations at HDC due to a cyber attack, flooding or severe weather or other event, we maintain the capability to conduct critical operations at back-up facilities in different locations.

RAIL FACILITIES

In addition to our track structure, we operate numerous facilities, including terminals for intermodal and other freight; rail yards for building trains (classification yards), switching, storage-in-transit (the temporary storage of customer goods in rail cars prior to shipment) and other activities; offices to administer and manage our operations; dispatching centers to direct traffic on our rail network; crew quarters to house train crews along our network; and shops and other facilities for fueling, maintenance, and repair of locomotives and repair and maintenance of rail cars and other equipment. The following table includes the major yards and terminals on our system:

 

Major Classification Yards    Major Intermodal Terminals

North Platte, Nebraska

   ICTF (Los Angeles), California

North Little Rock, Arkansas

   Global IV (Joliet), Illinois

Englewood (Houston), Texas

   East Los Angeles, California

Fort Worth, Texas

   DIT (Dallas), Texas

Proviso (Chicago), Illinois

   Global I (Chicago), Illinois

Livonia, Louisiana

   Marion (Memphis), Tennessee

Roseville, California

   Global II (Chicago), Illinois

Pine Bluff, Arkansas

   Mesquite, Texas

West Colton, California

   City of Industry, California

Neff (Kansas City), Missouri

   Lathrop, California

RAIL EQUIPMENT

Our equipment includes owned and leased locomotives and rail cars; heavy maintenance equipment and machinery; other equipment and tools in our shops, offices, and facilities; and vehicles for maintenance, transportation of crews, and other activities. As of December 31, 2014, we owned or leased the following units of equipment:

 

Locomotives

   Owned       Leased       Total      

Average 

Age (yrs.) 

 

Multiple purpose

     5,666         2,327         7,993         18.4   

Switching

     333         12         345         35.6   

Other

     68         57         125         35.4   

 

Total locomotives

     6,067         2,396         8,463         N/A    
           

Freight cars

   Owned       Leased       Total      

Average 

Age (yrs.) 

 

Covered hoppers

     13,034         15,522         28,556         19.4   

Open hoppers

     7,521         4,107         11,628         28.5   

Gondolas

     6,243         3,874         10,117         24.7   

Boxcars

     3,466         1,567         5,033         29.3   

Refrigerated cars

     2,508         4,104         6,612         24.5   

Flat cars

     2,637         1,261         3,898         29.4   

Other

     20         354         374         N/A    

 

Total freight cars

     35,429         30,789         66,218         N/A    

 

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Highway revenue equipment

   Owned       Leased       Total      

Average 

Age (yrs.) 

 

Containers

     26,629         28,306         54,935         7.1   

Chassis

     15,182         25,951         41,133         8.9   

 

Total highway revenue equipment

     41,811         54,257         96,068         N/A    

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

Our rail network requires significant annual capital investments for replacement, improvement, and expansion. These investments enhance safety, support the transportation needs of our customers, and improve our operational efficiency. Additionally, we add new locomotives and freight cars to our fleet to replace older, less efficient equipment, to support growth and customer demand, and to reduce our impact on the environment through the acquisition of more fuel-efficient and low-emission locomotives.

2014 Capital Program – During 2014, our capital program totaled $4.1 billion. (See the cash capital expenditures table in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources – Financial Condition, Item 7.)

2015 Capital Plan – In 2015, we expect our capital plan to be approximately $4.3 billion, which will include expenditures for PTC of approximately $450 million and may include non-cash investments. We may revise our 2015 capital plan if business conditions warrant or if new laws or regulations affect our ability to generate sufficient returns on these investments. (See discussion of our 2015 capital plan in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – 2015 Outlook, Item 7.)

OTHER

Equipment Encumbrances – Equipment with a carrying value of approximately $2.8 billion and $2.9 billion at December 31, 2014, and 2013, respectively served as collateral for capital leases and other types of equipment obligations in accordance with the secured financing arrangements utilized to acquire or refinance such railroad equipment.

As a result of the merger of Missouri Pacific Railroad Company (MPRR) with and into UPRR on January 1, 1997, and pursuant to the underlying indentures for the MPRR mortgage bonds, UPRR must maintain the same value of assets after the merger in order to comply with the security requirements of the mortgage bonds. As of the merger date, the value of the MPRR assets that secured the mortgage bonds was approximately $6.0 billion. In accordance with the terms of the indentures, this collateral value must be maintained during the entire term of the mortgage bonds irrespective of the outstanding balance of such bonds.

Environmental Matters – Certain of our properties are subject to federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment. (See discussion of environmental issues in Business – Governmental and Environmental Regulation, Item 1, and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Critical Accounting Policies – Environmental, Item  7.)

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we are involved in legal proceedings, claims, and litigation that occur in connection with our business. We routinely assess our liabilities and contingencies in connection with these matters based upon the latest available information and, when necessary, we seek input from our third-party advisors when making these assessments. Consistent with SEC rules and requirements, we describe below material pending legal proceedings (other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to our business), material proceedings known to be contemplated by governmental authorities, other proceedings arising under federal, state, or local environmental laws and regulations (including governmental proceedings involving potential fines, penalties, or other monetary sanctions in excess of $100,000), and such other pending matters that we may determine to be appropriate.

 

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ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

As previously reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, the Illinois Attorney General’s Office notified UPRR on January 14, 2013, that it will seek a penalty against the Railroad for environmental conditions caused by its predecessor at a former locomotive fueling facility in South Pekin, Illinois. This former CNW facility discontinued fueling operations in the early 1980s. Subsequent environmental investigation revealed evidence of fuel releases to soil and groundwater. In January 2007, the State rejected UPRR’s proposed compliance commitment agreement and responded with a notice of intent to pursue legal action. UPRR continued to perform remedial investigations under the supervision of the Illinois EPA. In June 2012, the Illinois EPA approved UPRR’s proposed remedial action plan for the site, consisting of no further action and monitoring for a period of ten years. Subsequently, the State notified UPRR that it would seek to recover a civil penalty, and during early negotiations, it offered to settle its claim for $240,000. UPRR rejected this offer. The State sued UPRR on October 26, 2013, in the Circuit Court for the Tenth Judicial Circuit, Tazewell County, Illinois. Through continued settlement negotiations, the parties have reached a tentative agreement to settle this matter in exchange for a payment by UPRR of $100,000. Final terms for a written agreement are being developed.

We received notices from the EPA and state environmental agencies alleging that we are or may be liable under federal or state environmental laws for remediation costs at various sites throughout the U.S., including sites on the Superfund National Priorities List or state superfund lists. We cannot predict the ultimate impact of these proceedings and suits because of the number of potentially responsible parties involved, the degree of contamination by various wastes, the scarcity and quality of volumetric data related to many of the sites, and the speculative nature of remediation costs.

Information concerning environmental claims and contingencies and estimated remediation costs is set forth in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Critical Accounting Policies – Environmental, Item 7.

OTHER MATTERS

Antitrust Litigation – As we reported in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2007, 20 rail shippers (many of whom are represented by the same law firms) filed virtually identical antitrust lawsuits in various federal district courts against us and four other Class I railroads in the U.S. Currently, UPRR and three other Class I railroads are the named defendants in the lawsuit. The original plaintiff filed the first of these claims in the U.S. District Court in New Jersey on May 14, 2007. The number of complaints reached a total of 30. These suits allege that the named railroads engaged in price-fixing by establishing common fuel surcharges for certain rail traffic.

In addition to suits filed by direct purchasers of rail transportation services, a few of the suits involved plaintiffs alleging that they are or were indirect purchasers of rail transportation and sought to represent a purported class of indirect purchasers of rail transportation services that paid fuel surcharges. These complaints added allegations under state antitrust and consumer protection laws. On November 6, 2007, the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation ordered that all of the rail fuel surcharge cases be transferred to Judge Paul Friedman of the U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia for coordinated or consolidated pretrial proceedings. Following numerous hearings and rulings, Judge Friedman dismissed the complaints of the indirect purchasers, which the indirect purchasers appealed. On April 16, 2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia affirmed Judge Friedman’s ruling dismissing the indirect purchasers’ claims based on various state laws.

With respect to the direct purchasers’ complaint, Judge Friedman conducted a two-day hearing on October 6 and 7, 2010, on the class certification issue and the railroad defendants’ motion to exclude evidence of interline communications. On April 7, 2011, Judge Friedman issued an order deferring any decision on class certification until the Supreme Court issued its decision in the Wal-Mart employment discrimination case.

On June 21, 2012, Judge Friedman issued his decision, which certified a class of plaintiffs with eight named plaintiff representatives. The decision included in the class all shippers that paid a rate-based fuel surcharge to any one of the defendant railroads for rate-unregulated rail transportation from July 1, 2003, through December 31, 2008. This was a procedural ruling, which did not affirm any of the claims asserted by the plaintiffs and does not affect the ability of the railroad defendants to disprove the allegations made by the plaintiffs. On July 5, 2012, the defendant railroads filed a petition with the U.S. Court of Appeals for

 

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the District of Columbia requesting that the court review the class certification ruling. On August 28, 2012, a panel of the Circuit Court of the District of Columbia referred the petition to a merits panel of the court to address the issues in the petition and to address whether the district court properly granted class certification. The Circuit Court heard oral arguments on May 3, 2013. On August 9, 2013, the Circuit Court vacated the class certification decision and remanded the case to the district court to reconsider the class certification decision in light of a recent Supreme Court case and incomplete consideration of errors in the expert report of the plaintiffs. On October 31, 2013, Judge Friedman approved a schedule agreed to by all parties for consideration of the class certification issue on remand.

On October 2, 2014, the plaintiffs informed Judge Friedman that their economic expert had a previously undisclosed conflict of interest. Judge Friedman ruled on November 26, 2014, that the plaintiffs may file a supplemental expert report to support their motion for class certification. The plaintiffs must file their supplemental expert report on or before April 1, 2015. The defendant railroads will then have the opportunity to respond to the plaintiffs’ supplement report. Judge Friedman has not yet set a new date to hear oral arguments on plaintiffs’ motion for class certification.

As we reported in our Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on June 10, 2011, the Railroad received a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on June 7, 2011, by Oxbow Carbon & Minerals LLC and related entities (Oxbow). The complaint named the Railroad and one other U.S. Class I Railroad as defendants and alleged that the named railroads engaged in price-fixing and monopolistic practices in connection with fuel surcharge programs and pricing of shipments of certain commodities, including coal and petroleum coke. The complaint sought injunctive relief and payment of damages of over $30 million, and other unspecified damages, including treble damages. Some of the allegations in the complaint were addressed in the existing fuel surcharge litigation referenced above. The complaint also included additional unrelated allegations regarding alleged limitations on competition for shipments of Oxbow’s commodities. Judge Friedman, who presides over the fuel surcharge matter described above, also presides over this matter. On February 26, 2013, Judge Friedman granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss Oxbow’s complaint for failure to state properly a claim under the antitrust laws. However, the dismissal was without prejudice to refile the complaint. Judge Friedman approved a schedule that allowed Oxbow to file a revised complaint, which Oxbow filed on May 1, 2013. The amended complaint alleges that UPRR and one other Class I railroad violated Sections 1 and 2 of the Sherman Antitrust Act and that UPRR also breached a tolling agreement between Oxbow and UPRR. Oxbow claims that it paid more than $50 million in wrongfully imposed fuel surcharges. UPRR and the other railroad filed separate motions to dismiss the Oxbow revised complaint on July 1, 2013. Judge Friedman heard oral arguments on the motions to dismiss filed by UPRR and the other railroad on January 8, 2015.

We deny the allegations that our fuel surcharge programs violate the antitrust laws or any other laws. We believe that these lawsuits are without merit, and we will vigorously defend our actions. Therefore, we currently believe that these matters will not have a material adverse effect on any of our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

 

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Executive Officers of the Registrant and Principal Executive Officers of Subsidiaries

The Board of Directors typically elects and designates our executive officers on an annual basis at the board meeting held in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders, and they hold office until their successors are elected. Executive officers also may be elected and designated throughout the year, as the Board of Directors considers appropriate. There are no family relationships among the officers, nor is there any arrangement or understanding between any officer and any other person pursuant to which the officer was selected. The following table sets forth certain information current as of February 6, 2015, relating to the executive officers.

 

Name

  

Position

  

Age

  

Business

Experience During

Past Five Years

John J. Koraleski

  

Chairman of UPC and the Railroad

   64    [1]

Lance M. Fritz

  

President and Chief Executive Officer of UPC and the Railroad

   52    [2]

Robert M. Knight, Jr.

  

Executive Vice President – Finance and Chief Financial Officer of UPC and the Railroad

   57    Current Position

Diane K. Duren

  

Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary of UPC and the Railroad

   55    [3]

Gayla L. Thal

  

Senior Vice President – Law and General Counsel of UPC and the Railroad

   58    [4]

Jeffrey P. Totusek

  

Vice President and Controller of UPC and Chief Accounting Officer and Controller of the Railroad

   56    Current Position

Eric L. Butler

  

Executive Vice President – Marketing and Sales of the Railroad

   54    [5]

 

[1]

On February 5, 2015, Mr. Koraleski was named executive Chairman of the Board of UPC and the Railroad. Mr. Koraleski first was elected Chairman of the Board of UPC and the Railroad on March 20, 2014. Previously, Mr. Koraleski was Chief Executive Officer and President of UPC and the Railroad effective March 2, 2012. In addition, he was Executive Vice President – Marketing and Sales of the Railroad effective March 1, 1999.

 

[2]

Mr. Fritz was elected President and Chief Executive Officer of UPC and the Railroad effective February 5, 2015. Previously, Mr. Fritz was President and Chief Operating Officer of the Railroad effective February 6, 2014, Executive Vice President – Operations of the Railroad, effective September 1, 2010, and Vice President – Operations of the Railroad, effective January 1, 2010.

 

[3]

Ms. Duren was elected Executive Vice President of UPC and the Railroad effective October 1, 2012. In addition, Ms. Duren was elected Corporate Secretary, effective March 1, 2013. She previously was Vice President and General Manager – Chemicals effective August 1, 2006.

 

[4]

Ms. Thal was elected to her current position effective March 15, 2012. She previously was Vice President – Law and Chief Compliance Officer effective December 1, 2005.

 

[5]

Mr. Butler was elected to his current position effective March 15, 2012. He previously was Vice President and General Manager – Industrial Products effective April 14, 2005.

 

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PART II

Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “UNP”. The following table presents the dividends declared and the high and low prices of our common stock for each of the indicated quarters. All amounts are retroactively adjusted to reflect the June 6, 2014 stock split.

 

2014 - Dollars Per Share

   Q1       Q2       Q3       Q4   

Dividends

   $ 0.455        $ 0.455        $ 0.50        $ 0.50    

Common stock price:

           

High

     95.24          102.96          110.26          123.61    

Low

     82.49          90.36          96.76          96.17    
           

2013 - Dollars Per Share

   Q1       Q2       Q3       Q4   

Dividends

   $ 0.345        $ 0.345        $ 0.395        $ 0.395    

Common stock price:

           

High

     71.50          80.50          82.59          84.12    

Low

     63.66          67.88          76.02          74.62    

At January 30, 2015, there were 881,284,029 shares of common stock outstanding and 32,112 common shareholders of record. On that date, the closing price of the common stock on the NYSE was $117.21. We have paid dividends to our common shareholders during each of the past 115 years. We declared dividends totaling $1,714 million in 2014 and $1,371 million in 2013. On July 31, 2014, we increased the quarterly dividend to $0.50 per share, payable on October 1, 2014, to shareholders of record on August 29, 2014. On February 5, 2015, we increased the quarterly dividend to $0.55 per share, payable on March 30, 2015, to shareholders of record on February 27, 2015. We are subject to certain restrictions regarding retained earnings with respect to the payment of cash dividends to our shareholders. The amount of retained earnings available for dividends decreased to $15.4 billion at December 31, 2014, from $16.3 billion at December 31, 2013. (See discussion of this restriction in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources, Item 7.) We do not believe the restriction on retained earnings will affect our ability to pay dividends, and we currently expect to pay dividends in 2015.

Comparison Over One- and Three-Year Periods – The following table presents the cumulative total shareholder returns, assuming reinvestment of dividends, over one- and three-year periods for the Corporation (UNP), a peer group index (comprised of CSX Corporation and Norfolk Southern Corporation), the Dow Jones Transportation Index (DJ Trans), and the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index (S&P 500).

 

Period

   UNP       Peer 
Group 
     DJ 
Trans 
     S&P 
500 
 

1 Year (2014)

     44.5%          24.7%          25.1%          13.7%    

3 Year (2012-2014)

     138.6            72.9            90.1            74.5      

 

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Five-Year Performance Comparison – The following graph provides an indicator of cumulative total shareholder returns for the Corporation as compared to the peer group index (described above), the DJ Trans, and the S&P 500. The graph assumes that $100 was invested in the common stock of Union Pacific Corporation and each index on December 31, 2009 and that all dividends were reinvested. The information below is historical in nature and is not necessarily indicative of future performance.

 

LOGO

Purchases of Equity Securities – During 2014, we repurchased 33,035,204 shares of our common stock at an average price of $100.24. The following table presents common stock repurchases during each month for the fourth quarter of 2014:

 

Period

  

Total Number of 

Shares 

Purchased [a] 

    

Average 

Price Paid 

Per Share 

    

Total Number of Shares 

Purchased as Part of a 

Publicly Announced 

Plan or Program [b] 

    

Maximum Number of 

Shares That May Yet 

Be Purchased Under the Plan 

or Program [b] 

 

Oct. 1 through Oct. 31

     3,087,549        $ 107.59          3,075,000          92,618,000    

Nov. 1 through Nov. 30

     1,877,330          119.84          1,875,000          90,743,000    

Dec. 1 through Dec. 31

     2,787,108          116.54          2,786,400          87,956,600    

 

Total

     7,751,987        $ 113.77          7,736,400          N/A     
                                     

 

[a]

Total number of shares purchased during the quarter includes approximately 15,587 shares delivered or attested to UPC by employees to pay stock option exercise prices, satisfy excess tax withholding obligations for stock option exercises or vesting of retention units, and pay withholding obligations for vesting of retention shares.

 

[b]

Effective January 1, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 120 million shares of our common stock by December 31, 2017. These repurchases may be made on the open market or through other transactions. Our management has sole discretion with respect to determining the timing and amount of these transactions.

 

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Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The following table presents as of, and for the years ended, December 31, our selected financial data for each of the last five years. The selected financial data should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Item 7, and with the Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Item 8. The information below is historical in nature and is not necessarily indicative of future financial condition or results of operations.

 

Millions, Except per Share Amounts,

Carloads, Employee Statistics, and Ratios

   2014       2013       2012       2011       2010   

For the Year Ended December 31

              

Operating revenues [a]

   $     23,988        $     21,963        $     20,926        $     19,557        $     16,965    

Operating income

     8,753          7,446          6,745          5,724          4,981    

Net income

     5,180          4,388          3,943          3,292          2,780    

Earnings per share - basic [b]

     5.77          4.74          4.17          3.39          2.79    

Earnings per share - diluted [b]

     5.75          4.71          4.14          3.36          2.76    

Dividends declared per share [b]

     1.91          1.48          1.245          0.965          0.655    

Cash provided by operating activities

     7,385          6,823          6,161          5,873          4,105    

Cash used in investing activities

     (4,249)          (3,405)          (3,633)          (3,119)          (2,488)    

Cash used in financing activities

     (2,982)          (3,049)          (2,682)          (2,623)          (2,381)    

Cash used for common share repurchases

     (3,225)          (2,218)          (1,474)          (1,418)          (1,249)    

At December 31

              

Total assets

   $ 52,716        $ 49,731        $ 47,153        $ 45,096        $ 43,088    

Long-term obligations [c]

     27,762          24,715          24,157          23,201          22,373    

Debt due after one year

     11,018          8,872          8,801          8,697          9,003    

Common shareholders’ equity

     21,189          21,225          19,877          18,578          17,763    

Additional Data

              

Freight revenues [a]

   $ 22,560        $ 20,684        $ 19,686        $ 18,508        $ 16,069    

Revenue carloads (units) (000)

     9,625          9,022          9,048          9,072          8,815    

Operating ratio (%) [d]

     63.5          66.1          67.8          70.7          70.6    

Average employees (000)

     47.2          46.4          45.9          44.9          42.9    

Financial Ratios (%)

              

Debt to capital [e]

     35.1          31.1          31.2          32.4          34.2    

Return on average common

shareholders’ equity [f]

     24.4          21.4          20.5          18.1          16.1    

 

[a]

Includes fuel surcharge revenue of $2.8 billion, $2.6 billion, $2.6 billion, $2.2 billion, and $1.2 billion for 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively, which partially offsets increased operating expenses for fuel. (See further discussion in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Results of Operations – Operating Revenues, Item 7.)

 

[b]

Earnings per share and dividends declared per share are retroactively adjusted to reflect the June 6, 2014 stock split.

 

[c]

Long-term obligations is determined as follows: total liabilities less current liabilities.

 

[d]

Operating ratio is defined as operating expenses divided by operating revenues.

 

[e]

Debt to capital is determined as follows: total debt divided by total debt plus common shareholders’ equity.

 

[f]

Return on average common shareholders’ equity is determined as follows: Net income divided by average common shareholders’ equity.

 

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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and applicable notes to the Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Item 8, and other information in this report, including Risk Factors set forth in Item 1A and Critical Accounting Policies and Cautionary Information at the end of this Item 7.

The Railroad, along with its subsidiaries and rail affiliates, is our one reportable business segment. Although revenue is analyzed by commodity, we analyze the net financial results of the Railroad as one segment due to the integrated nature of the rail network.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

2014 Results

 

   

Safety – During 2014, we continued focusing on safety to reduce risk and eliminate incidents for our employees, our customers and the public. We achieved our best ever reportable personal injury incidents per 200,000 employee-hours of 0.98 and, for the first time, we ended the year below 1.0. In addition, our full year reportable derailment incident per million train miles improved 7%. These results demonstrate our employees’ dedication to our safety initiatives and our employee engagement efforts through Courage to Care, Total Safety Culture, and UP Way (our continuous improvement culture). We finished 2014 with a 5% higher crossing incident rate per million train miles than the year prior. Previous prevention and mitigation efforts for at-grade crossing improvements continue with new approaches planned for 2015 to reduce our exposure to crossing accidents.

 

   

Financial Performance – In 2014, we continued our record-setting financial performance, generating operating income of $8.8 billion, an 18% increase over 2013. Core pricing gains of 2.5%, business demand and productivity, partially offset by costs of running a slower network and inflation, drove this increase. Our operating ratio for 2014 of 63.5% was an all-time best, improving from last year’s operating ratio of 66.1%. Net income of $5.2 billion surpassed our previous milestone set in 2013, translating into earnings of $5.75 per diluted share for 2014.

 

   

Freight Revenues – Our freight revenues grew 9% year-over-year to a record $22.6 billion driven by volume growth along with core pricing gains of 2.5%. Compared to 2013, freight revenues and volume grew in all six commodity groups with double digit growth in Agricultural and Industrial Products. Our fuel surcharge increased 6% versus 2013 driven by volume growth, improved fuel recovery provisions and the lag effect of our programs (surcharges trail fluctuations in fuel price by approximately two months).

 

   

Network Operations – Significant carload growth levels coupled with severe weather affected the performance of our network and the North American rail network as a whole. Average train speed, as reported to the AAR, declined 8% in 2014 compared to 2013, reflecting the 7% volume increase, a major infrastructure project in Fort Worth, Texas and severe weather conditions. Average terminal dwell time increased 12% primarily due to higher volumes and inclement weather.

 

   

Fuel Prices – Our average price per gallon of diesel fuel in 2014 decreased 6% from the average price in 2013, as both crude oil and the conversion spreads between crude oil and diesel declined in 2014. The lower price decreased operating expenses by over $200 million (excluding any impact from year-over-year volume). Our fuel consumption rate, computed as gallons of fuel consumed divided by gross ton-miles, decreased 1% compared to 2013 also lowering fuel expense. These declines were offset by a 7% increase in gross-ton miles, which increased fuel expense.

 

   

Free Cash Flow – Cash generated by operating activities totaled $7.4 billion, yielding free cash flow of $1.5 billion after reductions of $4.2 billion for cash used in investing activities and a 22% increase in dividends paid. Free cash flow is defined as cash provided by operating activities less cash used in investing activities and dividends paid.

Free cash flow is not considered a financial measure under accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (GAAP) by SEC Regulation G and Item 10 of SEC Regulation S-K and may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner. We believe free cash flow is important to management and investors in evaluating our financial performance and measures our ability to

 

23


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generate cash without additional external financings. Free cash flow should be considered in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, cash provided by operating activities. The following table reconciles cash provided by operating activities (GAAP measure) to free cash flow (non-GAAP measure):

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012   

Cash provided by operating activities

   $ 7,385        $ 6,823        $ 6,161    

Cash used in investing activities

         (4,249)              (3,405)              (3,633)    

Dividends paid

     (1,632)          (1,333)          (1,146)    

 

Free cash flow

   $ 1,504        $ 2,085        $ 1,382    

2015 Outlook

 

   

Safety – Operating a safe railroad benefits all our constituents: our employees, customers, shareholders and the communities we serve. We will continue using a multi-faceted approach to safety, utilizing technology, risk assessment, quality control, training and employee engagement, and targeted capital investments. We will continue using and expanding the deployment of Total Safety Culture and Courage to Care throughout our operations, which allows us to identify and implement best practices for employee and operational safety. We will continue our efforts to increase detection of rail defects; improve or close crossings; and educate the public and law enforcement agencies about crossing safety through a combination of our own programs (including risk assessment strategies), industry programs and local community activities across our network.

 

   

Network Operations – In 2015, we will continue to add resources to support growth, improve service, and replenish our surge capability.

 

   

Fuel Prices – With the dramatic drop in fuel prices at the end of 2014, there is even more uncertainty around the projections of fuel prices. We again could see volatile fuel prices during the year, as they are sensitive to global and U.S. domestic demand, refining capacity, geopolitical events, weather conditions and other factors. As prices fluctuate there will be a timing impact on earnings, as our fuel surcharge programs trail fluctuations in fuel price by approximately two months.

Lower fuel prices could have a positive impact on the economy by increasing consumer discretionary spending that potentially could increase demand for various consumer products that we transport. Alternatively, lower fuel prices will likely have a negative impact on other commodities such as coal, frac sand and crude oil shipments.

 

   

Capital Plan – In 2015, we expect our capital plan to be approximately $4.3 billion, including expenditures for PTC and 218 locomotives. The capital plan may be revised if business conditions warrant or if new laws or regulations affect our ability to generate sufficient returns on these investments. (See further discussion in this Item 7 under Liquidity and Capital Resources – Capital Plan.)

 

   

Financial Expectations – We expect the overall U.S. economy to continue to improve at a moderate pace. One of the biggest uncertainties is the outlook for energy markets, which will bring both challenges and opportunities. On balance, we expect to see positive volume growth for 2015 versus the prior year. In the current environment, we expect continued margin improvement driven by continued pricing opportunities, ongoing productivity initiatives and the ability to leverage our resources as we improve the fluidity of our network.

 

24


Table of Contents

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Operating Revenues

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012      

% Change 

2014 v 2013 

     % Change 
2013 v 2012 
 

Freight revenues

   $ 22,560        $ 20,684        $ 19,686          9%          5%    

Other revenues

     1,428          1,279          1,240          12%          3%    

 

Total

   $     23,988        $     21,963        $     20,926          9%          5%    
                                              

We generate freight revenues by transporting freight or other materials from our six commodity groups. Freight revenues vary with volume (carloads) and average revenue per car (ARC). Changes in price, traffic mix and fuel surcharges drive ARC. We provide some of our customers with contractual incentives for meeting or exceeding specified cumulative volumes or shipping to and from specific locations, which we record as reductions to freight revenues based on the actual or projected future shipments. We recognize freight revenues as shipments move from origin to destination. We allocate freight revenues between reporting periods based on the relative transit time in each reporting period and recognize expenses as we incur them.

Other revenues include revenues earned by our subsidiaries, revenues from our commuter rail operations, and accessorial revenues, which we earn when customers retain equipment owned or controlled by us or when we perform additional services such as switching or storage. We recognize other revenues as we perform services or meet contractual obligations.

Freight revenues from all six commodity groups increased during 2014 compared to 2013 driven by 7% volume growth and core pricing gains of 2.5%. Volume growth from grain, frac sand, rock, and intermodal (domestic and international) shipments offset declines in crude oil.

Freight revenues from five of our six commodity groups increased during 2013 compared to 2012. Revenue from Agricultural Products was down slightly compared to 2012. ARC increased 5%, driven by core pricing gains, shifts in business mix and an automotive logistics management arrangement. Volume essentially was flat year over year as growth in automotive, frac sand, crude oil and domestic intermodal offset declines in coal, international intermodal and grain shipments.

Our fuel surcharge programs generated freight revenues of $2.8 billion, $2.6 billion, and $2.6 billion in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Fuel surcharge in 2014 increased 6% driven by our 7% carloadings increase. Fuel surcharge in 2013 essentially was flat versus 2012 as lower fuel price offset improved fuel recovery provisions and the lag effect of our programs (surcharges trail fluctuations in fuel price by approximately two months).

In 2014, other revenue increased from 2013 due to higher revenues at our subsidiaries, primarily those that broker intermodal and automotive services, accessorial revenue driven by increased volume and per diem revenue for container usage (previously included in automotive freight revenue).

In 2013, other revenue increased from 2012 due primarily to miscellaneous contract revenue and higher revenues at our subsidiaries that broker intermodal and automotive services.

 

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The following tables summarize the year-over-year changes in freight revenues, revenue carloads, and ARC by commodity type:

 

Freight Revenues

Millions

   2014       2013       2012       % Change 
2014 v 2013 
     % Change 
2013 v 2012 
 

Agricultural Products

   $ 3,777        $ 3,276        $ 3,280          15%          -%    

Automotive

     2,103          2,077          1,807          1            15      

Chemicals

     3,664          3,501          3,238          5            8      

Coal

     4,127          3,978          3,912          4            2      

Industrial Products

     4,400          3,822          3,494          15            9      

Intermodal

     4,489          4,030          3,955          11            2      

 

Total

   $     22,560        $     20,684        $     19,686          9%          5%    
                                              
              

Revenue Carloads

Thousands

   2014       2013       2012      

% Change 

2014 v 2013 

    

% Change 

2013 v 2012 

 

Agricultural Products

     973          874          900          11%          (3)%    

Automotive

     809          781          738          4            6       

Chemicals

     1,116          1,103          1,042          1            6       

Coal

     1,768          1,703          1,871          4            (9)       

Industrial Products

     1,368          1,236          1,185          11            4       

Intermodal [a]

     3,591          3,325          3,312          8            -       

 

Total

     9,625          9,022          9,048          7%          -%     
                                              
              

Average Revenue per Car

   2014       2013       2012      

% Change 

2014 v 2013 

    

% Change 

2013 v 2012 

 

Agricultural Products

   $ 3,881        $ 3,746        $ 3,644          4%          3%    

Automotive

     2,602          2,659          2,448          (2)            9      

Chemicals

     3,282          3,176          3,107          3            2      

Coal

     2,334          2,336          2,092          -            12      

Industrial Products

     3,217          3,093          2,947          4            5      

Intermodal [a]

     1,250          1,212          1,194          3            2      

 

Average

   $ 2,344        $ 2,293        $ 2,176          2%          5%    
                                              

 

[a]

Each intermodal container or trailer equals one carload.

 

26


Table of Contents

Agricultural Products – Higher volume and pricing gains drove the increase in freight revenue from agricultural shipments in 2014 versus 2013. Grain shipments increased 27%, reflecting the strong overall harvest in 2013 and 2014. The 2012 drought negatively impacted the first three quarters of 2013, which created favorable comparisons for the first three quarters of 2014. Lower export wheat shipments due to a larger world crop partially offset gains in grain.

 

In 2013, lower volume offset price improvements as freight revenue declined slightly versus 2012. In the fourth quarter, grain shipments increased 41% due to a robust fall harvest. Despite the fourth quarter growth, grain shipments still

 

2014 Agricultural Products Carloads

 

LOGO

decreased 4% for the full year when compared to 2012, reflecting the impact of the severe drought in 2012 that affected territory served by us during the first three quarters of 2013. Export wheat shipped to the Gulf and Pacific Northwest increased in the second half of 2013, partially offsetting the declines in grain.

 

Automotive – Freight revenue from automotive shipments increased compared to 2013. Growth in automotive parts and finished vehicle shipments and core price improvements drove the higher revenue. The increase in automotive parts volume was driven by continued strength in production and market penetration. Finished vehicles shipments increased the last three quarters of 2014 with improved sales and production, which offset declines in the first quarter due to winter weather. Shifts in business mix and a change in how we are compensated for container usage, which is now included as a per diem charge in other revenue, negatively impacted ARC compared to 2013.

 

2014 Automotive Carloads

 

LOGO

Higher ARC due to price increases and the logistics management arrangement that covers fees and container costs, coupled with increased shipments of automotive parts and finished vehicles, improved automotive revenue in 2013 compared to 2012. Higher production and sales levels during 2013 drove the volume growth.

 

Chemicals – Core price improvements, higher volumes and ARC driven by positive business mix increased freight revenue from chemicals compared to 2013. Shipments of industrial chemicals grew as a result of continued strong demand in the drilling market. Fertilizer shipments increased due to strong exports of potash. Reduced shipments of crude oil from the Bakken and Permian shale formations to the Gulf area partially offset these gains as market factors, primarily regional pricing differences for various types of crude oil, displaced some of the former Gulf Coast shipments to the East and West Coasts.

 

2014 Chemicals Carloads

 

LOGO

Volume gains and price improvement increased freight revenue from chemicals in 2013 versus 2012. Shipments of crude oil from the Bakken, Permian, Niobrara and Eagle Ford shale formations primarily to the Gulf area drove the growth in shipments of

 

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chemicals. In addition, shipments of industrial chemicals increased as manufacturing, housing and automotive markets improved.

 

Coal – Freight revenue from coal shipments increased in 2014 compared to 2013, driven by higher volumes. Shifts in business mix negatively impacted ARC compared to 2013. Southern Powder River Basin (SPRB) shipments increased 3% from 2013. Strong demand continued throughout the year due to inventory replenishment but network performance and contract losses limited year-over-year volume growth. Shipments from Colorado and Utah mines increased 6% compared to 2013, driven by higher natural gas prices for most of the year and strong exports through the West Coast. However, in the fourth quarter volumes from Colorado and Utah mines declined as exports to the Gulf Coast decreased.

 

2014 Coal Carloads

 

LOGO

ARC gains driven by price increases and positive business mix, partially offset by volume declines, increased freight revenue from coal shipments in 2013 versus 2012. SPRB shipments declined 10% from 2012 due to the loss of a customer contract at the beginning of the year, relatively mild summer weather, and tighter coal inventory management by utilities. Shipments from Colorado and Utah mines decreased 13% compared to 2012, driven by soft domestic demand and mine production issues, partially offset by second half growth in international shipments. Severe flooding and washouts in Colorado also reduced volumes from certain producers in the third quarter.

 

Industrial Products – Volume growth, core pricing gains and positive business mix increased freight revenue from industrial products versus 2013. Shipments of non-metallic minerals (primarily frac sand, up 31%) grew as a result of drilling activity for energy products, as well as evolving drilling practices, which can increase the amount of frac sand used at certain wells. Additionally, rock and lumber shipments increased from 2013, driven by new housing and commercial construction.

 

Freight revenue from industrial products increased in 2013 versus 2012 driven by volume growth and higher ARC due to pricing gains and favorable business mix. Shipments of non-metallic minerals (primarily frac sand) grew as a result of drilling activity for energy products. Additionally, growth in new housing construction and home improvements drove an

 

2014 Industrial Products Carloads

 

LOGO

increase in lumber shipments. Declines in ferrous scrap and government shipments partially offset these higher volumes.

 

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Intermodal – Freight revenue from intermodal shipments increased in 2014 compared to 2013 driven by volume growth, core pricing improvements and positive business mix. Domestic traffic increased 11% due to continued conversions from truck transportation to rail and new premium services. International traffic grew 5% versus 2013, driven primarily by new business and improving economic conditions. International gains in the last three quarters of the year offset the declines in the first quarter due to severe weather that negatively impacted consumer demand.

 

Pricing improvements and slight volume growth drove increased freight revenue from intermodal shipments in 2013

 

2014 Intermodal Carloads

 

LOGO

compared to 2012. Domestic traffic increased 3% due to overall economic growth along with conversions from truck transportation to rail. International traffic declined 2% versus 2012, reflecting market share shifts within the ocean carrier industry and an increase in transloading in the second half of the year. Transloading involves the transfer of goods from international to domestic containers at distribution centers near West coast ports, which reduces demand for rail transportation from these centers in international containers.

Mexico Business – Each of our commodity groups includes revenue from shipments to and from Mexico. Revenue from Mexico business increased 8% to $2.3 billion in 2014 versus 2013. Volume levels increased 8% from 2013, as increases in Agricultural Products, Chemicals, Intermodal, Automotive and Industrial Products offset lower export Coal shipments.

Revenue from Mexico business increased 9% to $2.1 billion in 2013 versus 2012. Shipments were up 3% versus 2012; all commodity groups grew with the exception of Agricultural Products. The largest growth came from Automotive and Industrial Products shipments.

 

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Operating Expenses

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012       % Change 
2014 v 2013 
     % Change 
2013 v 2012 
 

Compensation and benefits

   $ 5,076        $ 4,807        $ 4,685          6%          3%    

Fuel

     3,539          3,534          3,608          -            (2)      

Purchased services and materials

     2,558          2,315          2,143          10            8      

Depreciation

     1,904          1,777          1,760          7            1      

Equipment and other rents

     1,234          1,235          1,197          -            3      

Other

     924          849          788          9            8      

 

Total

   $     15,235        $     14,517        $     14,181          5%          2%    
                                              

 

Operating expenses increased $718 million in 2014 versus 2013. Volume-related expenses, incremental costs associated with operating a slower network, depreciation, wage and benefit inflation, and locomotive and freight car materials contributed to the higher costs. Lower fuel price partially offset these increases. In addition, there were approximately $35 million of weather related costs in the first quarter of 2014.

 

Operating expenses increased $336 million in 2013 versus 2012. Wage and benefit inflation, new logistics management fees and container costs for our automotive business, locomotive overhauls, property taxes and repairs on jointly owned property contributed to higher expenses during the year. Lower fuel prices partially offset the cost increases.

 

2014 Operating Expenses

 

LOGO

Compensation and Benefits – Compensation and benefits include wages, payroll taxes, health and welfare costs, pension costs, other postretirement benefits, and incentive costs. Volume-related expenses, including training, and a slower network increased our train and engine work force, which, along with general wage and benefit inflation, drove increased wages. Weather-related costs in the first quarter of 2014 also increased costs.

General wages and benefits inflation, including increased pension and other postretirement benefits, and higher work force levels drove the increases in 2013 versus 2012. The impact of ongoing productivity initiatives partially offset these increases.

Fuel – Fuel includes locomotive fuel and gasoline for highway and non-highway vehicles and heavy equipment. Volume growth of 7%, as measured by gross ton-miles, drove the increase in fuel expense. This was essentially offset by lower locomotive diesel fuel prices, which averaged $2.97 per gallon (including taxes and transportation costs) in 2014, compared to $3.15 in 2013, along with a slight improvement in fuel consumption rate, computed as gallons of fuel consumed divided by gross ton-miles.

Lower locomotive diesel fuel prices, which averaged $3.15 per gallon (including taxes and transportation costs) in 2013, compared to $3.22 in 2012, decreased expenses by $75 million. Volume, as measured by gross ton-miles, decreased 1% while the fuel consumption rate, computed as gallons of fuel consumed divided by gross ton-miles, increased 2% compared to 2012. Declines in heavier, more fuel-efficient coal shipments drove the variances in gross-ton-miles and the fuel consumption rate.

Purchased Services and Materials – Expense for purchased services and materials includes the costs of services purchased from outside contractors and other service providers (including equipment maintenance and contract expenses incurred by our subsidiaries for external transportation services); materials used to maintain the Railroad’s lines, structures, and equipment; costs of operating facilities jointly used by UPRR and other railroads; transportation and lodging for train crew employees; trucking and contracting costs for intermodal containers; leased automobile maintenance expenses; and tools and supplies. Expenses for purchased services increased 8% compared to 2013 primarily due to volume-

 

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related expenses incurred by our logistics subsidiaries for external transportation and increased crew transportation and lodging due to volumes and a slower network. In addition, higher consulting fees and higher contract expenses (including equipment maintenance) increased costs compared to 2013. Locomotive and freight car material expenses increased in 2014 compared to 2013 due to additional volumes, including the impact of activating stored equipment to address operational issues caused by demand and a slower network.

Expenses for purchased services increased 10% in 2013 compared to 2012 due to logistics management fees, an increase in locomotive overhauls and repairs on jointly owned property.

Depreciation – The majority of depreciation relates to road property, including rail, ties, ballast, and other track material. Depreciation was up 7% compared to 2013. A higher depreciable asset base, reflecting higher ongoing capital spending drove the increase.

Depreciation was up 1% in 2013 compared to 2012. Recent depreciation studies allowed us to use longer estimated service lives for certain equipment, which partially offset the impact of a higher depreciable asset base resulting from larger capital spending in recent years.

Equipment and Other Rents – Equipment and other rents expense primarily includes rental expense that the Railroad pays for freight cars owned by other railroads or private companies; freight car, intermodal, and locomotive leases; and office and other rent expenses. Higher intermodal volumes and longer cycle times increased short-term freight car rental expense in 2014 compared to 2013. Lower equipment leases essentially offset the higher freight car rental expense, as we exercised purchase options on some of our leased equipment.

Additional container costs resulting from the logistics management arrangement, and increased automotive shipments, partially offset by lower cycle times drove a $51 million increase in our short-term freight car rental expense in 2013 versus 2012. Conversely, lower locomotive and freight car lease expenses partially offset the higher freight car rental expense.

Other – Other expenses include state and local taxes, freight, equipment and property damage, utilities, insurance, personal injury, environmental, employee travel, telephone and cellular, computer software, bad debt, and other general expenses. Higher property taxes, personal injury expense and utilities costs partially offset by lower environmental expense and costs associated with damaged freight drove the increase in other costs in 2014 compared to 2013.

Higher property taxes and costs associated with damaged freight and property increased other costs in 2013 compared to 2012. Continued improvement in our safety performance and lower estimated liability for personal injury, which reduced our personal injury expense year-over-year, partially offset increases in other costs.

Non-Operating Items

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012      

% Change 

2014 v 2013 

    

% Change 

2013 v 2012 

 

Other income

   $ 151        $ 128        $ 108          18%           19%     

Interest expense

     (561)          (526)          (535)          7            (2)       

Income taxes

         (3,163)              (2,660)              (2,375)          19%           12%     

Other Income – Other income increased in 2014 versus 2013 due to higher gains from real estate sales and a sale of a permanent easement. These gains were partially offset by higher environmental costs on non-operating property in 2014 and lower lease income due to the $17 million settlement of a land lease contract in 2013.

Other income increased in 2013 versus 2012 due to higher gains from real estate sales and increased lease income, including the favorable impact from the $17 million settlement of a land lease contract. These increases were partially offset by interest received from a tax refund in 2012.

 

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Interest Expense – Interest expense increased in 2014 versus 2013 due to an increased weighted-average debt level of $10.8 billion in 2014 from $9.6 billion in 2013, which more than offset the impact of the lower effective interest rate of 5.3% in 2014 versus 5.7% in 2013.

Interest expense decreased in 2013 versus 2012 due to a lower effective interest rate of 5.7% in 2013 versus 6.0% in 2012. The increase in the weighted-average debt level to $9.6 billion in 2013 from $9.1 billion in 2012 partially offset the impact of the lower effective interest rate.

Income Taxes – Higher pre-tax income increased income taxes in 2014 compared to 2013. Our effective tax rate for 2014 was 37.9% compared to 37.7% in 2013.

Higher pre-tax income increased income taxes in 2013 compared to 2012. Our effective tax rate for 2013 was 37.7% compared to 37.6% in 2012.

OTHER OPERATING/PERFORMANCE AND FINANCIAL STATISTICS

We report a number of key performance measures weekly to the Association of American Railroads (AAR). We provide this data on our website at www.up.com/investor/aar-stb_reports/index.htm.

Operating/Performance Statistics

Railroad performance measures are included in the table below:

 

      2014       2013       2012      

% Change 

2014 v 2013 

    

% Change 

2013 v 2012 

 

Average train speed (miles per hour)

     24.0          26.0          26.5          (8)%            (2)%      

Average terminal dwell time (hours)

     30.3          27.1          26.2          12 %            3 %      

Gross ton-miles (billions)

     1,014.9          949.1          959.3          7 %            (1)%      

Revenue ton-miles (billions)

     549.6          514.3          521.1          7 %            (1)%      

Operating ratio

     63.5          66.1          67.8          (2.6)pts          (1.7)pts    

Employees (average)

     47,201          46,445          45,928          2 %            1 %      

Average Train Speed – Average train speed is calculated by dividing train miles by hours operated on our main lines between terminals. Average train speed, as reported to the Association of American Railroads, decreased 8% in 2014 versus 2013. The decline was driven by a 7% volume increase, a major infrastructure project in Fort Worth, Texas and inclement weather, including flooding in the Midwest in the second quarter and severe weather conditions in the first quarter that impacted all major U.S. and Canadian railroads.

Average train speed decreased 2% in 2013 versus 2012. The decline was driven by severe weather conditions and shifts of traffic to sections of our network with higher utilization.

Average Terminal Dwell Time – Average terminal dwell time is the average time that a rail car spends at our terminals. Lower average terminal dwell time improves asset utilization and service. Average terminal dwell time increased 12% in 2014 compared to 2013, caused by higher volumes and inclement weather.

Average terminal dwell time increased 3% in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to growth of manifest traffic which requires more time in terminals for switching cars and building trains.

Gross and Revenue Ton-Miles – Gross ton-miles are calculated by multiplying the weight of loaded and empty freight cars by the number of miles hauled. Revenue ton-miles are calculated by multiplying the weight of freight by the number of tariff miles. Gross ton-miles, revenue ton-miles and carloadings all increased 7% in 2014 compared to 2013.

Gross ton-miles and revenue ton-miles declined 1% in 2013 compared to 2012 and carloads remained relatively flat driven by declines in coal and agricultural products offset by growth in chemical, autos and industrial products. Changes in commodity mix drove the year-over-year variances between gross ton-miles, revenue ton-miles and carloads.

 

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Operating Ratio – Operating ratio is our operating expenses reflected as a percentage of operating revenue. Our operating ratio improved 2.6 points to a new record low of 63.5% in 2014 versus 2013. Core pricing, business demand and productivity more than offset the incremental operating costs associated with volume, a slower network, weather and inflation.

Our operating ratio improved 1.7 points to a then record low of 66.1% in 2013 versus 2012. Core pricing and productivity gains more than offset the impact of inflation.

Employees – Employee levels increased 2% in 2014 versus 2013. A decrease in our capital workforce due to improved productivity and project mix partially offset the larger train and engine workforce required for higher volume levels and a slower network. We successfully managed the growth of our full-time equivalent train and engine force levels at a rate less than our volume growth in 2014 compared to 2013.

Employee levels increased 1% in 2013 versus 2012. Shifts in our traffic mix, which required more resources, largely concentrated in the Southern region, work related to higher capital investment in positive train control and more individuals in the training pipeline contributed to the higher employee levels.

Return on Average Common Shareholders’ Equity

 

Millions, Except Percentages

   2014       2013       2012   

Net income

   $ 5,180        $ 4,388        $ 3,943    

Average equity

   $     21,207        $     20,551        $     19,228    

 

Return on average common shareholders’ equity

     24.4%           21.4%           20.5%     
                            

Return on Invested Capital as Adjusted (ROIC)

 

Millions, Except Percentages

   2014       2013       2012   

Net income

   $ 5,180        $ 4,388        $ 3,943    

Interest expense

     561          526          535    

Interest on present value of operating leases

     158          175          190    

Taxes on interest

     (273)          (264)          (273)    

 

Net operating profit after taxes as adjusted (a)

   $ 5,626        $ 4,825        $ 4,395    
                            

Average equity

   $ 21,207        $ 20,551        $ 19,228    

Average debt

     10,529          9,287          8,952    

Average present value of operating leases

     2,980          3,077          3,160    

 

Average invested capital as adjusted (b)

   $     34,716        $     32,915        $     31,340    
                            

 

Return on invested capital as adjusted (a/b)

     16.2%           14.7%           14.0%     
                            

ROIC is considered a non-GAAP financial measure by SEC Regulation G and Item 10 of SEC Regulation S-K, and may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner. We believe this measure is important in evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of our long-term capital investments. In addition, we currently use ROIC as a performance criteria in determining certain elements of equity compensation for our executives. ROIC should be considered in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, other information provided in accordance with GAAP. The most comparable GAAP measure is Return on Average Common Shareholders’ Equity. The tables above provide reconciliations from return on average common shareholders’ equity to ROIC. Our 2014 ROIC improved 1.5 points compared to 2013, primarily as a result of higher earnings.

 

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Debt to Capital

 

Millions, Except Percentages

   2014       2013   

Debt (a)

   $ 11,480        $ 9,577    

Equity

     21,189          21,225    

Capital (b)

   $ 32,669        $ 30,802    

 

Debt to capital (a/b)

     35.1%           31.1%     
                   

Adjusted Debt to Capital

 

     

Millions, Except Percentages

   2014       2013   

Debt

   $ 11,480        $ 9,577    

Net present value of operating leases

     2,902          3,057    

Unfunded pension and OPEB

     523          170    

Adjusted debt (a)

   $ 14,905        $ 12,804    

Equity

     21,189          21,225    

Adjusted capital (b)

   $     36,094        $     34,029    

 

Adjusted debt to capital (a/b)

     41.3%           37.6%     
                   

Adjusted debt to capital is a non-GAAP financial measure under SEC Regulation G and Item 10 of SEC Regulation S-K, and may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner. We believe this measure is important to management and investors in evaluating the total amount of leverage in our capital structure, including off-balance sheet lease obligations, which we generally incur in connection with financing the acquisition of locomotives and freight cars and certain facilities. Operating leases were discounted using 5.3% and 5.7% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The discount rate reflects our effective interest rate. We monitor the ratio of adjusted debt to capital as we manage our capital structure to balance cost-effective and efficient access to the capital markets with our overall cost of capital. Adjusted debt to capital should be considered in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, debt to capital. The tables above provide reconciliations from debt to capital to adjusted debt to capital. Our December 31, 2014 debt to capital ratios increased as a result of a $1.9 billion increase in debt from December 31, 2013.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

As of December 31, 2014, our principal sources of liquidity included cash, cash equivalents, our receivables securitization facility, and our revolving credit facility, as well as the availability of commercial paper and other sources of financing through the capital markets. We had $1.7 billion of committed credit available under our credit facility, with no borrowings outstanding as of December 31, 2014. We did not make any borrowings under this facility during 2014. The value of the outstanding undivided interest held by investors under the $650 million capacity receivables securitization facility was $400 million as of December 31, 2014, and is included in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as debt due after one year. Our access to this receivables securitization facility may be reduced or restricted if our bond ratings fall to certain levels below investment grade. If our bond rating were to deteriorate, it could have an adverse impact on our liquidity. Access to commercial paper as well as other capital market financings is dependent on market conditions. Deterioration of our operating results or financial condition due to internal or external factors could negatively impact our ability to access capital markets as a source of liquidity. Access to liquidity through the capital markets is also dependent on our financial stability. We expect that we will continue to have access to liquidity through any or all of the following sources or activities: (i) increasing the size or utilization of our receivables securitization, (ii) issuing commercial paper, (iii) entering into bank loans, outside of our revolving credit facility, or (iv) issuing bonds or other debt securities to public or private investors based on our assessment of the current condition of the credit markets. The Company’s $1.7 billion revolving credit facility is intended to support the issuance of commercial paper by UPC and also serves as an emergency source of liquidity. The Company currently does not intend to make any borrowings under this facility.

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had a modest working capital surplus. This reflects a strong cash position that provides enhanced liquidity in an uncertain economic environment. In addition, we believe

 

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we have adequate access to capital markets to meet any foreseeable cash requirements, and we have sufficient financial capacity to satisfy our current liabilities.

 

Cash Flows

Millions

   2014       2013       2012   

Cash provided by operating activities

   $ 7,385        $ 6,823        $ 6,161    

Cash used in investing activities

         (4,249)              (3,405)              (3,633)    

Cash used in financing activities

     (2,982)          (3,049)          (2,682)    

 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

   $ 154        $ 369        $ (154)    
                            

Operating Activities

Higher net income in 2014 increased cash provided by operating activities compared to 2013, despite higher income tax payments. 2014 income tax payments were higher than 2013 primarily due to higher income, but also because we paid taxes previously deferred by bonus depreciation (discussed below).

Higher net income in 2013 increased cash provided by operating activities compared to 2012. In addition, we made payments in 2012 for past wages as a result of national labor negotiations, which reduced cash provided by operating activities in 2012. Lower tax benefits from bonus depreciation (as discussed below) partially offset the increases.

Federal tax law provided for 100% bonus depreciation for qualified investments made during 2011 and 50% bonus depreciation for qualified investments made during 2012-2013. As a result, the Company deferred a substantial portion of its 2011-2013 income tax expense, contributing to the positive operating cash flow in those years. Congress extended 50% bonus depreciation for 2014, but this extension occurred in December and did not have a significant benefit on our income tax payments during 2014.

Investing Activities

Higher capital investments, including the early buyout of the long-term operating lease of our headquarters building for approximately $261 million, drove the increase in cash used in investing activities compared to 2013. Significant investments also were made for new locomotives, freight cars and containers, and capacity and commercial facility projects. Capital investments in 2014 also included $99 million for the early buyout of locomotives and freight cars under long-term operating leases, which we exercised due to favorable economic terms and market conditions.

Lower capital investments in locomotives and freight cars in 2013 drove the decrease in cash used in investing activities compared to 2012. Included in capital investments in 2012 was $75 million for the early buyout of 165 locomotives under long-term operating and capital leases during the first quarter of 2012, which we exercised due to favorable economic terms and market conditions.

 

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The following tables detail cash capital investments and track statistics for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012   

Rail and other track material

   $ 749        $ 743        $ 759    

Ties

     415          438          434    

Ballast

     204          226          203    

Other [a]

     378          326          312    

 

Total road infrastructure replacements

     1,746          1,733          1,708    
                            

Line expansion and other capacity projects

     515          455          489    

Commercial facilities

     217          146          169    

 

Total capacity and commercial facilities

     732          601          658    
                            

Locomotives and freight cars

     1,067          580          875    

Positive train control

     384          419          349    

Technology and other [b]

     417          163          148    

 

Total cash capital investments

   $     4,346        $     3,496        $     3,738    
                            

 

[a]

Other includes bridges and tunnels, signals, other road assets, and road work equipment.

 

[b]

Technology and other includes the early buyout of our headquarters building operating lease.

 

      2014       2013       2012   

Track miles of rail replaced

     912          834          964    

Track miles of rail capacity expansion

     119          97          139    

New ties installed (thousands)

     4,076          3,870          4,436    

Miles of track surfaced

         10,791              11,017              11,049    

Capital Plan – In 2015, we expect our capital plan to be approximately $4.3 billion, which may be revised if business conditions or the regulatory environment affect our ability to generate sufficient returns on these investments. While asset replacements will fluctuate as part of our renewal strategy, we expect to use 55% to 60% of our capital investments to renew and improve existing capital assets. Our major investment categories include renewing track infrastructure and upgrading our fleet of locomotives, freight cars, and domestic intermodal containers. In 2015, we plan to acquire 218 locomotives and increase freight car and container acquisitions. Additionally, we will continue increasing our network and terminal capacity, especially in the Southern region, while balancing terminal capacity with mainline capacity. In 2015, we also plan to begin constructing a major classification yard at Hearne, Texas, and continue developing several intermodal, automotive and chemicals facilities. Significant investments in technology improvements are planned, including approximately $450 million for PTC.

We expect to fund our 2015 cash capital plan by using some or all of the following: cash generated from operations, proceeds from the sale or lease of various operating and non-operating properties, proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt, and cash on hand. Our annual capital plan is a critical component of our long-term strategic plan. We expect our plan will enhance the long-term value of the Company for our shareholders by providing sufficient resources to (i) replace and improve our existing track infrastructure to provide safe and fluid operations, (ii) increase network efficiency by adding or improving facilities and track, and (iii) make investments that meet customer demand and take advantage of opportunities for long-term growth.

Financing Activities

Cash used in financing activities remained flat in 2014 versus 2013. Increases for the repurchase of shares under our common stock repurchase program and higher dividend payments in 2014 of $1.6 billion compared to $1.3 billion in 2013 were offset by higher debt issuances in 2014.

Cash used in financing activities increased in 2013 versus 2012, driven by a $744 million increase for the repurchase of shares under our common stock repurchase program and higher dividend payments in 2013 of $1.3 billion compared to $1.1 billion in 2012. We increased our debt levels in 2013, which partially offset the increase in cash used in financing activities.

 

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Dividends – On February 5, 2015, we increased the quarterly dividend to $0.55 per share, payable on March 30, 2015, to shareholders of record on February 27, 2015, We expect to fund the increase in the quarterly dividend through cash generated from operations and cash on hand at December 31, 2014.

Credit Facilities – During the second quarter of 2014, we replaced our $1.8 billion revolving credit facility, which was scheduled to expire in May 2015, with a new $1.7 billion facility that expires in May 2019 (the facility). The facility is based on substantially similar terms as those in the previous credit facility. On December 31, 2014, we had $1.7 billion of credit available under the facility, which is designated for general corporate purposes and supports the issuance of commercial paper. We did not draw on either facility at any time during 2014. Commitment fees and interest rates payable under the facility are similar to fees and rates available to comparably rated, investment-grade borrowers. The facility allows for borrowings at floating rates based on London Interbank Offered Rates, plus a spread, depending upon credit ratings for our senior unsecured debt.

The facility requires that the Corporation maintain a debt-to-net-worth coverage ratio as a condition to making a borrowing. At December 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013 (and at all times during the year), we were in compliance with this covenant. The definition of debt used for purposes of calculating the debt-to-net-worth coverage ratio includes, among other things, certain credit arrangements, capital leases, guarantees and unfunded and vested pension benefits under Title IV of ERISA. At December 31, 2014, the debt-to-net-worth coverage ratio allowed us to carry up to $42.4 billion of debt (as defined in the facility), and we had $11.6 billion of debt (as defined in the facility) outstanding at that date. Under our current capital plans, we expect to continue to satisfy the debt-to-net-worth coverage ratio; however, many factors beyond our reasonable control could affect our ability to comply with this provision in the future. The facility does not include any other financial restrictions, credit rating triggers (other than rating-dependent pricing), or any other provision that could require us to post collateral. The facility also includes a $125 million cross-default provision and a change-of-control provision.

During 2014, we did not issue or repay any commercial paper, and at December 31, 2014, and 2013, we had no commercial paper outstanding. Our revolving credit facility supports our outstanding commercial paper balances, and, unless we change the terms of our commercial paper program, our aggregate issuance of commercial paper will not exceed the amount of borrowings available under the facility.

(See further discussion in this Item 7 under Receivables Securitization Facility for information regarding the Company’s receivables securitization facility.)

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

For each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, our ratio of earnings to fixed charges was 13.5, 11.8, and 10.4, respectively. The ratio of earnings to fixed charges was computed on a consolidated basis. Earnings represent income from continuing operations, less equity earnings net of distributions, plus fixed charges and income taxes. Fixed charges represent interest charges, amortization of debt discount, and the estimated amount representing the interest portion of rental charges. (See Exhibit 12 to this report for the calculation of the ratio of earnings to fixed charges.)

Common Shareholders’ Equity

Dividend Restrictions – Our revolving credit facility includes a debt-to-net worth covenant (discussed in the Credit Facilities section above) that, under certain circumstances, restricts the payment of cash dividends to our shareholders. The amount of retained earnings available for dividends was $15.4 billion and $16.3 billion at December 31, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

 

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Share Repurchase Program

Effective January 1, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 120 million shares of our common stock by December 31, 2017, replacing our previous repurchase program. As of December 31, 2014, we repurchased a total of $12.6 billion of our common stock since the commencement of our repurchase programs in 2007. The table below represents shares repurchased in 2013 under our previous repurchase program, and shares repurchased in 2014 under the new program.

 

      Number of Shares Purchased             Average Price Paid  
      2014       2013             2014       2013   

First quarter

     7,640,000          5,762,800           $ 89.43        $ 68.29    

Second quarter

     8,320,000          6,122,940             96.84          75.71    

Third quarter

     8,347,000          7,333,788             102.54          78.39    

Fourth quarter

     7,736,400          9,858,110               113.77          79.68    

 

Total

     32,043,400          29,077,638           $     100.65        $ 76.26    
                                          

 

Remaining number of shares that may be repurchased under current authority

  

           87,956,600    
                                          

Management’s assessments of market conditions and other pertinent facts guide the timing and volume of all repurchases. We expect to fund any share repurchases under this program through cash generated from operations, the sale or lease of various operating and non-operating properties, debt issuances, and cash on hand. Repurchased shares are recorded in treasury stock at cost, which includes any applicable commissions and fees.

From January 1, 2015, through February 6, 2015, we repurchased 2.8 million shares at an aggregate cost of approximately $327 million.

Shelf Registration Statement and Significant New Borrowings – Under our current shelf registration, we may issue, from time to time, any combination of debt securities, preferred stock, common stock, or warrants for debt securities or preferred stock in one or more offerings. We have no immediate plans to issue equity securities; however, we will continue to explore opportunities to replace existing debt or access capital through issuances of debt securities under our shelf registration, and, therefore, we may issue additional debt securities at any time.

During 2014, we issued the following unsecured, fixed-rate debt securities under our current shelf registration:

 

Date

   Description of Securities

January 10, 2014

   $300 million of 2.25% Notes due February 15, 2019
   $400 million of 3.75% Notes due March 15, 2024
   $300 million of 4.85% Notes due June 15, 2044

August 12, 2014

   $350 million of 3.25% Notes due January 15, 2025
     $350 million of 4.15% Notes due January 15, 2045

We used the net proceeds from the offerings for general corporate purposes, including the repurchase of common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program. These debt securities include change-of-control provisions. At December 31, 2014, we had remaining authority to issue up to $1.15 billion of debt securities under our shelf registration.

Subsequent Event – In 2015, we issued the following unsecured, fixed-rate debt securities under our current shelf registration:

 

Date

   Description of Securities

January 29, 2015

   $250 million of 1.80% Notes due February 1, 2020
   $450 million of 3.375% Notes due February 1, 2035
     $450 million of 3.875% Notes due February 1, 2055

 

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Proceeds from this offering are for general corporate purposes, including the repurchase of common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program. These debt securities include change-of-control provisions. This offering exhausted our current authority to issue debt securities under our existing shelf registration.

On February 5, 2015, the Board of Directors approved proceeding with a new shelf registration statement and authorized the issuance of up to $4.0 billion of debt securities.

Equipment Trust – On May 20, 2014, UPRR consummated a pass-through (P/T) financing, whereby a P/T trust was created, which issued $500 million of P/T trust certificates with a stated interest rate of 3.227%. The P/T trust certificates will mature on May 14, 2026. The proceeds from the issuance of the P/T trust certificates (net of $3 million in transaction fees) were used to purchase equipment trust certificates to be issued by UPRR to finance the acquisition of 245 locomotives. The equipment trust certificates are secured by a lien on the locomotives.

Debt Exchange – On August 21, 2013, we exchanged $1,170 million of various outstanding notes and debentures due between 2016 and 2040 (the Existing Notes) for $439 million of 3.646% notes (the New 2024 Notes) due February 15, 2024 and $700 million of 4.821% notes (the New 2044 Notes) due February 1, 2044, plus cash consideration of approximately $280 million in addition to $8 million for accrued and unpaid interest on the Existing Notes. In accordance with ASC 470-50-40, Debt-Modifications and Extinguishments-Derecognition, this transaction was accounted for as a debt exchange, as the exchanged debt instruments are not considered to be substantially different. The cash consideration was recorded as an adjustment to the carrying value of debt, and the balance of the unamortized discount and issue costs from the Existing Notes is being amortized as an adjustment of interest expense over the terms of the New 2024 Notes and the New 2044 Notes. No gain or loss was recognized as a result of the exchange. Costs related to the debt exchange that were payable to parties other than the debt holders totaled approximately $9 million and were included in interest expense during the three months ended September 30, 2013.

The following table lists the outstanding notes and debentures that were exchanged:

 

Millions

  

Principal amount 

exchanged 

 

The 2024 Offers

  

7.000% Debentures due 2016

   $ 8    

5.650% Notes due 2017

     38    

5.750% Notes due 2017

     70    

5.700% Notes due 2018

     103    

7.875% Notes due 2019

     20    

6.125% Notes due 2020

     238    

The 2044 Offers

  

7.125% Debentures due 2028

     73    

6.625% Debentures due 2029

     177    

6.250% Debentures due 2034

     19    

6.150% Debentures due 2037

     138    

5.780% Notes due 2040

     286    

 

Total

   $ 1,170    
          

Debt Redemption – On May 14, 2013, we redeemed all $40 million of our outstanding 5.65% Port of Corpus Christi Authority Revenue Refunding Bonds due December 1, 2022. The redemption resulted in an early extinguishment charge of $1 million in the second quarter of 2013.

Receivables Securitization Facility – On July 29, 2014, we completed the renewal of our receivables securitization facility. The new $650 million, 3-year facility replaces the prior $600 million, 364-day facility. Under the facility, the Railroad sells most of its eligible third-party receivables to Union Pacific Receivables, Inc. (UPRI), a wholly-owned, bankruptcy-remote subsidiary that may subsequently transfer, without recourse, an undivided interest in accounts receivable to investors. The investors have no

 

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recourse to the Railroad’s other assets except for customary warranty and indemnity claims. Creditors of the Railroad do not have recourse to the assets of UPRI.

The amount outstanding under the facility was $400 million and $0 at December 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013, respectively. The facility was supported by $1.2 billion and $1.1 billion of accounts receivable as collateral at December 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013, respectively, which, as a retained interest, is included in accounts receivable, net in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

The outstanding amount the Railroad is allowed to maintain under the facility, with a maximum of $650 million, may fluctuate based on the availability of eligible receivables and is directly affected by business volumes and credit risks, including receivables payment quality measures such as default and dilution ratios. If default or dilution ratios increase one percent, the allowable outstanding amount under the facility would not materially change.

The costs of the receivables securitization facility include interest, which will vary based on prevailing benchmark and commercial paper rates, program fees paid to participating banks, commercial paper issuing costs, and fees of participating banks for unused commitment availability. The costs of the receivables securitization facility are included in interest expense and were $4 million, $5 million and $3 million for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

As described in the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and as referenced in the tables below, we have contractual obligations and commercial commitments that may affect our financial condition. Based on our assessment of the underlying provisions and circumstances of our contractual obligations and commercial commitments, including material sources of off-balance sheet and structured finance arrangements, other than the risks that we and other similarly situated companies face with respect to the condition of the capital markets (as described in Item 1A of Part II of this report), there is no known trend, demand, commitment, event, or uncertainty that is reasonably likely to occur that would have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity. In addition, our commercial obligations, financings, and commitments are customary transactions that are similar to those of other comparable corporations, particularly within the transportation industry.

The following tables identify material obligations and commitments as of December 31, 2014:

 

              Payments Due by December 31,  

Contractual Obligations

Millions

   Total       2015       2016       2017       2018       2019      

After 

2019 

     Other   

Debt [a]

   $ 17,897        $ 829        $ 953        $ 1,372        $ 868        $ 898        $ 12,977        $ -    

Operating leases [b]

     3,725          508          484          429          356          323          1,625          -    

Capital lease obligations [c]

     1,927          253          249          246          224          210          745          -    

Purchase obligations [d]

     6,271          3,446          1,415          384          325          251          418          32    

Other post retirement benefits [e]

     450          42          44          44          45          46          229          -    

Income tax contingencies [f]

     151          6          -          -          -          -          -          145    

 

Total contractual obligations

   $   30,421        $   5,084        $   3,145        $   2,475        $   1,818        $   1,728        $   15,994        $   177    
                                                                         

 

[a]

Excludes capital lease obligations of $1,520 million and unamortized discount of $(591) million. Includes an interest component of $7,346 million.

 

[b]

Includes leases for locomotives, freight cars, other equipment, and real estate.

 

[c]

Represents total obligations, including interest component of $407 million.

 

[d]

Purchase obligations include locomotive maintenance contracts; purchase commitments for fuel purchases, locomotives, ties, ballast, rail, and aircraft; and agreements to purchase other goods and services. For amounts where we cannot reasonably estimate the year of settlement, they are reflected in the Other column.

 

[e]

Includes estimated other post retirement, medical, and life insurance payments, payments made under the unfunded pension plan for the next ten years.

 

[f]

Future cash flows for income tax contingencies reflect the recorded liabilities and assets for unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties, as of December 31, 2014. For amounts where the year of settlement is uncertain, they are reflected in the Other column.

 

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              Amount of Commitment Expiration per Period   

Other Commercial Commitments

Millions

   Total       2015       2016       2017       2018       2019      

After 

2019 

 

Credit facilities [a]

   $ 1,700        $ -        $ -        $ -        $ -        $ 1,700        $ -    

Receivables securitization facility [b]

     650          -          -          650          -          -          -    

Guarantees [c]

     82          12          26          10          11          8          15    

Standby letters of credit [d]

     40          34          6          -          -          -          -    

 

Total commercial commitments

   $     2,472        $     46        $     32        $     660        $     11        $     1,708        $     15    
                                                                

 

[a]

None of the credit facility was used as of December 31, 2014.

 

[b]

$400 million of the receivables securitization facility was utilized as of December 31, 2014, which is accounted for as debt. The full program matures in July 2017.

 

[c]

Includes guaranteed obligations related to our equipment financings and affiliated operations.

 

[d]

None of the letters of credit were drawn upon as of December 31, 2014.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Guarantees – At December 31, 2014, and 2013, we were contingently liable for $82 million and $299 million in guarantees. We have recorded liabilities of $0.3 million and $1 million for the fair value of these obligations as of December 31, 2014, and 2013, respectively. We entered into these contingent guarantees in the normal course of business, and they include guaranteed obligations related to our equipment financings and affiliated operations. The final guarantee expires in 2022. We are not aware of any existing event of default that would require us to satisfy these guarantees. We do not expect that these guarantees will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

OTHER MATTERS

Labor Agreements – Approximately 85% of our 47,201 full-time-equivalent employees are represented by 14 major rail unions. On January 1, 2015, current labor agreements became subject to modification and we began the current round of negotiations with the unions. Existing agreements remain in effect until new agreements are reached or the Railway Labor Act’s procedures (which include mediation, cooling-off periods, and the possibility of Presidential Emergency Boards and Congressional intervention) are exhausted. Contract negotiations historically continue for an extended period of time and we rarely experience work stoppages while negotiations are pending.

Inflation – Long periods of inflation significantly increase asset replacement costs for capital-intensive companies. As a result, assuming that we replace all operating assets at current price levels, depreciation charges (on an inflation-adjusted basis) would be substantially greater than historically reported amounts.

Derivative Financial Instruments – We may use derivative financial instruments in limited instances to assist in managing our overall exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and fuel prices. We are not a party to leveraged derivatives and, by policy, do not use derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. Derivative financial instruments qualifying for hedge accounting must maintain a specified level of effectiveness between the hedging instrument and the item being hedged, both at inception and throughout the hedged period. We formally document the nature and relationships between the hedging instruments and hedged items at inception, as well as our risk-management objectives, strategies for undertaking the various hedge transactions, and method of assessing hedge effectiveness. Changes in the fair market value of derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are charged to earnings. We may use swaps, collars, futures, and/or forward contracts to mitigate the risk of adverse movements in interest rates and fuel prices; however, the use of these derivative financial instruments may limit future benefits from favorable price movements.

Market and Credit Risk – We address market risk related to derivative financial instruments by selecting instruments with value fluctuations that highly correlate with the underlying hedged item. We manage credit risk related to derivative financial instruments, which is minimal, by requiring high credit standards for counterparties and periodic settlements. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, we were not required to provide collateral, nor had we received collateral, relating to our hedging activities.

 

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Determination of Fair Value – We determine the fair values of our derivative financial instrument positions based upon current fair values as quoted by recognized dealers or the present value of expected future cash flows.

Sensitivity Analyses – The sensitivity analyses that follow illustrate the economic effect that hypothetical changes in interest rates could have on our results of operations and financial condition. These hypothetical changes do not consider other factors that could impact actual results.

At December 31, 2014, we had variable-rate debt representing approximately 5.3% of our total debt. If variable interest rates average one percentage point higher in 2015 than our December 31, 2014 variable rate, which was approximately 0.9%, our interest expense would increase by approximately $4 million. This amount was determined by considering the impact of the hypothetical interest rate on the balances of our variable-rate debt at December 31, 2014.

Market risk for fixed-rate debt is estimated as the potential increase in fair value resulting from a hypothetical one percentage point decrease in interest rates as of December 31, 2014, and amounts to an increase of approximately $1.3 billion to the fair value of our debt at December 31, 2014. We estimated the fair values of our fixed-rate debt by considering the impact of the hypothetical interest rates on quoted market prices and current borrowing rates.

Interest Rate Fair Value Hedges – We manage our overall exposure to fluctuations in interest rates by adjusting the proportion of fixed and floating rate debt instruments within our debt portfolio over a given period. We generally manage the mix of fixed and floating rate debt through the issuance of targeted amounts of each as debt matures or as we require incremental borrowings. We employ derivatives, primarily swaps, as one of the tools to obtain the targeted mix. In addition, we also obtain flexibility in managing interest costs and the interest rate mix within our debt portfolio by evaluating the issuance of and managing outstanding callable fixed-rate debt securities.

Swaps allow us to convert debt from fixed rates to variable rates and thereby hedge the risk of changes in the debt’s fair value attributable to the changes in interest rates. We account for swaps as fair value hedges using the short-cut method as allowed by the Derivatives and Hedging Topic of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) ASC 815; therefore, we do not record any ineffectiveness within our Consolidated Financial Statements. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had no interest rate fair value hedges outstanding.

Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges – We report changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges in accumulated other comprehensive loss until the hedged item affects earnings. At December 31, 2014, and 2013, we had reductions of $0 and $1 million, respectively, recorded as an accumulated other comprehensive loss. As of December 31, 2014, and 2013, we had no interest rate cash flow hedges outstanding.

Accounting Pronouncements – In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09 (ASU 2014-09), Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). ASU 2014-09 supersedes the revenue recognition guidance in Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in the exchange for those goods or services. This standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. ASU 2014-09 is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Asserted and Unasserted Claims – Various claims and lawsuits are pending against us and certain of our subsidiaries. We cannot fully determine the effect of all asserted and unasserted claims on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity; however, to the extent possible, where asserted and unasserted claims are considered probable and where such claims can be reasonably estimated, we have recorded a liability. We do not expect that any known lawsuits, claims, environmental costs, commitments, contingent liabilities, or guarantees will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity after taking into account liabilities and insurance recoveries previously recorded for these matters.

Indemnities – Our maximum potential exposure under indemnification arrangements, including certain tax indemnifications, can range from a specified dollar amount to an unlimited amount, depending on the

 

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nature of the transactions and the agreements. Due to uncertainty as to whether claims will be made or how they will be resolved, we cannot reasonably determine the probability of an adverse claim or reasonably estimate any adverse liability or the total maximum exposure under these indemnification arrangements. We do not have any reason to believe that we will be required to make any material payments under these indemnity provisions.

Climate Change – Although climate change could have an adverse impact on our operations and financial performance in the future (see Risk Factors under Item 1A of this report), we are currently unable to predict the manner or severity of such impact. However, we continue to take steps and explore opportunities to reduce the impact of our operations on the environment, including investments in new technologies, using training programs to reduce fuel consumption, and changing our operations to increase fuel efficiency.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires estimation and judgment that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The following critical accounting policies are a subset of our significant accounting policies described in Note 2 to the Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Item 8. These critical accounting policies affect significant areas of our financial statements and involve judgment and estimates. If these estimates differ significantly from actual results, the impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements may be material.

Personal Injury – The cost of personal injuries to employees and others related to our activities is charged to expense based on estimates of the ultimate cost and number of incidents each year. We use an actuarial analysis to measure the expense and liability, including unasserted claims. The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) governs compensation for work-related accidents. Under FELA, damages are assessed based on a finding of fault through litigation or out-of-court settlements. We offer a comprehensive variety of services and rehabilitation programs for employees who are injured at work.

Our personal injury liability is not discounted to present value due to the uncertainty surrounding the timing of future payments. Approximately 93% of the recorded liability is related to asserted claims and approximately 7% is related to unasserted claims at December 31, 2014. Because of the uncertainty surrounding the ultimate outcome of personal injury claims, it is reasonably possible that future costs to settle these claims may range from approximately $335 million to $368 million. We record an accrual at the low end of the range as no amount of loss within the range is more probable than any other. Estimates can vary over time due to evolving trends in litigation.

Our personal injury liability activity was as follows:

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012   

Beginning balance

   $ 294        $ 334        $ 368    

Current year accruals

     96          87          121    

Changes in estimates for prior years

     9          (38)          (58)    

Payments

     (64)          (89)          (97)    

 

Ending balance at December 31

   $     335        $     294        $     334    
                            

 

Current portion, ending balance at December 31

   $ 111        $ 82        $ 95    
                            

 

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Our personal injury claims activity was as follows:

 

      2014      2013       2012   

Open claims, beginning balance

     2,605          2,792          2,869    

New claims

     2,773          2,705          2,719    

Settled or dismissed claims

     (2,760)          (2,892)          (2,796)    

 

Open claims, ending balance at December 31

     2,618          2,605          2,792    
                            

In conjunction with the liability update performed in 2014, we also reassessed our estimated insurance recoveries. We have recognized an asset for estimated insurance recoveries at December 31, 2014, and 2013.

Asbestos – We are a defendant in a number of lawsuits in which current and former employees and other parties allege exposure to asbestos. We assess our potential liability using a statistical analysis of resolution costs for asbestos-related claims. This liability is updated annually and excludes future defense and processing costs. The liability for resolving both asserted and unasserted claims was based on the following assumptions:

 

   

The ratio of future claims by alleged disease would be consistent with historical averages adjusted for inflation.

   

The number of claims filed against us will decline each year.

   

The average settlement values for asserted and unasserted claims will be equivalent to historical averages.

   

The percentage of claims dismissed in the future will be equivalent to historical averages.

Our liability for asbestos-related claims is not discounted to present value due to the uncertainty surrounding the timing of future payments. Approximately 21% of the recorded liability related to asserted claims and approximately 79% related to unasserted claims at December 31, 2014. Because of the uncertainty surrounding the ultimate outcome of asbestos-related claims, it is reasonably possible that future costs to settle these claims may range from approximately $126 million to $135 million. We record an accrual at the low end of the range as no amount of loss within the range is more probable than any other.

Our asbestos-related liability activity was as follows:

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012   

Beginning balance

   $ 131        $ 139        $ 147    

Accruals/(Credits)

     1          2          (2)    

Payments

     (6)          (10)          (6)    

 

Ending balance at December 31

   $     126        $     131        $     139    
                            

 

Current portion, ending balance at December 31

   $ 8        $ 9        $ 8    
                            

 

Our asbestos-related claims activity was as follows:

 

        
      2014       2013       2012   

Open claims, beginning balance

     1,140          1,258          1,291    

New claims

     183          192          233    

Settled or dismissed claims

     (258)          (310)          (266)    

 

Open claims, ending balance at December 31

     1,065          1,140          1,258    
                            

In conjunction with the liability update performed in 2014, we also reassessed our estimated insurance recoveries. We have recognized an asset for estimated insurance recoveries at December 31, 2014, and 2013. The amounts recorded for asbestos-related liabilities and related insurance recoveries were based on currently known facts. However, future events, such as the number of new claims filed each year, average settlement costs, and insurance coverage issues, could cause the actual costs and insurance recoveries to be higher or lower than the projected amounts. Estimates also may vary in the future if

 

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strategies, activities, and outcomes of asbestos litigation materially change; federal and state laws governing asbestos litigation increase or decrease the probability or amount of compensation of claimants; and there are material changes with respect to payments made to claimants by other defendants.

Environmental Costs – We are subject to federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations. We have identified 270 sites at which we are or may be liable for remediation costs associated with alleged contamination or for violations of environmental requirements. This includes 29 sites that are the subject of actions taken by the U.S. government, 16 of which are currently on the Superfund National Priorities List. Certain federal legislation imposes joint and several liability for the remediation of identified sites; consequently, our ultimate environmental liability may include costs relating to activities of other parties, in addition to costs relating to our own activities at each site.

When we identify an environmental issue with respect to property owned, leased, or otherwise used in our business, we perform, with assistance of our consultants, environmental assessments on the property. We expense the cost of the assessments as incurred. We accrue the cost of remediation where our obligation is probable and such costs can be reasonably estimated. Our environmental liability is not discounted to present value due to the uncertainty surrounding the timing of future payments.

Our environmental liability activity was as follows:

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012   

Beginning balance

   $     171        $     170        $     172    

Accruals

     56          58          48    

Payments

     (45)          (57)          (50)    

 

Ending balance at December 31

   $ 182        $ 171        $ 170    
                            

 

Current portion, ending balance at December 31

   $ 60        $ 53        $ 50    
                            

Our environmental site activity was as follows:

 

      2014       2013       2012   

Open sites, beginning balance

     268          284          285    

New sites

     55          41          56    

Closed sites

     (53)          (57)          (57)    

 

Open sites, ending balance at December 31

     270          268          284    
                            

The environmental liability includes future costs for remediation and restoration of sites, as well as ongoing monitoring costs, but excludes any anticipated recoveries from third parties. Cost estimates are based on information available for each site, financial viability of other potentially responsible parties, and existing technology, laws, and regulations. The ultimate liability for remediation is difficult to determine because of the number of potentially responsible parties, site-specific cost sharing arrangements with other potentially responsible parties, the degree of contamination by various wastes, the scarcity and quality of volumetric data related to many of the sites, and the speculative nature of remediation costs. Estimates of liability may vary over time due to changes in federal, state, and local laws governing environmental remediation. Current obligations are not expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity.

Property and Depreciation – Our railroad operations are highly capital intensive, and our large base of homogeneous, network-type assets turns over on a continuous basis. Each year we develop a capital program for the replacement of assets and for the acquisition or construction of assets that enable us to enhance our operations or provide new service offerings to customers. Assets purchased or constructed throughout the year are capitalized if they meet applicable minimum units of property criteria. Properties and equipment are carried at cost and are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated service lives, which are measured in years, except for rail in high-density traffic corridors (i.e., all rail lines except for those subject to abandonment, yard and switching tracks, and electronic yards) for which lives are measured in millions of gross tons per mile of track. We use the group method of depreciation in which all items with similar characteristics, use, and expected lives are grouped together in asset classes,

 

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and are depreciated using composite depreciation rates. The group method of depreciation treats each asset class as a pool of resources, not as singular items. We currently have more than 60 depreciable asset classes, and we may increase or decrease the number of asset classes due to changes in technology, asset strategies, or other factors.

We determine the estimated service lives of depreciable railroad property by means of depreciation studies. We perform depreciation studies at least every three years for equipment and every six years for track assets (i.e., rail and other track material, ties, and ballast) and other road property. Our depreciation studies take into account the following factors:

 

   

Statistical analysis of historical patterns of use and retirements of each of our asset classes;

   

Evaluation of any expected changes in current operations and the outlook for continued use of the assets;

   

Evaluation of technological advances and changes to maintenance practices; and

   

Expected salvage to be received upon retirement.

For rail in high-density traffic corridors, we measure estimated service lives in millions of gross tons per mile of track. It has been our experience that the lives of rail in high-density traffic corridors are closely correlated to usage (i.e., the amount of weight carried over the rail). The service lives also vary based on rail weight, rail condition (e.g., new or secondhand), and rail type (e.g., straight or curve). Our depreciation studies for rail in high-density traffic corridors consider each of these factors in determining the estimated service lives. For rail in high-density traffic corridors, we calculate depreciation rates annually by dividing the number of gross ton-miles carried over the rail (i.e., the weight of loaded and empty freight cars, locomotives and maintenance of way equipment transported over the rail) by the estimated service lives of the rail measured in millions of gross tons per mile. Rail in high-density traffic corridors accounts for approximately 70 percent of the historical cost of rail and other track material. Based on the number of gross ton-miles carried over our rail in high density traffic corridors during 2014, the estimated service lives of the majority of this rail ranged from approximately 18 years to approximately 35 years. For all other depreciable assets, we compute depreciation based on the estimated service lives of our assets as determined from the analysis of our depreciation studies. Changes in the estimated service lives of our assets and their related depreciation rates are implemented prospectively.

Estimated service lives of depreciable railroad property may vary over time due to changes in physical use, technology, asset strategies, and other factors that will have an impact on the retirement profiles of our assets. We are not aware of any specific factors that are reasonably likely to significantly change the estimated service lives of our assets. Actual use and retirement of our assets may vary from our current estimates, which would impact the amount of depreciation expense recognized in future periods.

Changes in estimated useful lives of our assets due to the results of our depreciation studies could significantly impact future periods’ depreciation expense and have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements. If the estimated useful lives of all depreciable assets were increased by one year, annual depreciation expense would decrease by approximately $63 million. If the estimated useful lives of all depreciable assets were decreased by one year, annual depreciation expense would increase by approximately $68 million. Our recent depreciation studies have resulted in lower depreciation rates for some asset classes. The lower rates combined with a projected higher depreciable asset base will increase total depreciation expense by approximately 4% to 6% in 2015 versus 2014.

Under group depreciation, the historical cost (net of salvage) of depreciable property that is retired or replaced in the ordinary course of business is charged to accumulated depreciation and no gain or loss is recognized. The historical cost of certain track assets is estimated using (i) inflation indices published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and (ii) the estimated useful lives of the assets as determined by our depreciation studies. The indices were selected because they closely correlate with the major costs of the properties comprising the applicable track asset classes. Because of the number of estimates inherent in the depreciation and retirement processes and because it is impossible to precisely estimate each of these variables until a group of property is completely retired, we continually monitor the estimated service lives of our assets and the accumulated depreciation associated with each asset class to ensure our depreciation rates are appropriate. In addition, we determine if the recorded amount of accumulated depreciation is deficient (or in excess) of the amount indicated by our depreciation studies. Any deficiency (or excess) is amortized as a component of depreciation expense over the remaining service lives of the applicable classes of assets.

 

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For retirements of depreciable railroad properties that do not occur in the normal course of business, a gain or loss may be recognized if the retirement meets each of the following three conditions: (i) it is unusual, (ii) it is material in amount, and (iii) it varies significantly from the retirement profile identified through our depreciation studies. During the last three fiscal years, no gains or losses were recognized due to the retirement of depreciable railroad properties. A gain or loss is recognized in other income when we sell land or dispose of assets that are not part of our railroad operations.

Income Taxes – We account for income taxes by recording taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. These expected future tax consequences are measured based on current tax law; the effects of future tax legislation are not anticipated. Future tax legislation, such as a change in the corporate tax rate, could have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity. For example, a 1% increase in future income tax rates would increase our deferred tax liability by approximately $380 million.

When appropriate, we record a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets to reflect that these tax assets may not be realized. In determining whether a valuation allowance is appropriate, we consider whether it is more likely than not that all or some portion of our deferred tax assets will not be realized, based on management’s judgments using available evidence for purposes of estimating whether future taxable income will be sufficient to realize a deferred tax asset. In 2014 and 2013, there were no valuation allowances.

We recognize tax benefits that are more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. The amount recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon settlement. A liability for “unrecognized tax benefits” is recorded for any tax benefits claimed in our tax returns that do not meet these recognition and measurement standards.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits – We use an actuarial analysis to measure the liabilities and expenses associated with providing pension and medical and life insurance benefits (OPEB) to eligible employees. In order to use actuarial methods to value the liabilities and expenses, we must make several assumptions. The critical assumptions used to measure pension obligations and expenses are the discount rate and expected rate of return on pension assets. For OPEB, the critical assumptions are the discount rate and health care cost trend rate.

We evaluate our critical assumptions at least annually, and selected assumptions are based on the following factors:

 

   

Discount rate is based on a Mercer yield curve of high quality corporate bonds (rated AA by a recognized rating agency) for which the timing and amount of cash flows matches our plans’ expected benefit payments.

   

Expected return on plan assets is based on our asset allocation mix and our historical return, taking into consideration current and expected market conditions.

   

Health care cost trend rate is based on our historical rates of inflation and expected market conditions.

The following tables present the key assumptions used to measure net periodic pension and OPEB cost/(benefit) for 2014 and the estimated impact on 2014 net periodic pension and OPEB cost/(benefit) relative to a change in those assumptions:

 

Assumptions

   Pension       OPEB   

Discount rate

     4.72%           4.47%     

Expected return on plan assets

     7.50%           N/A     

Compensation increase

     4.00%           N/A     

Health care cost trend rate:

     

Pre-65 current

     N/A           6.49%     

Pre-65 level in 2028

     N/A           4.50%     

 

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Sensitivities

   Increase in Expense   

Millions

   Pension       OPEB   

0.25% decrease in discount rate

   $ 9        $ 1    

0.25% increase in compensation scale

   $ 6          N/A     

0.25% decrease in expected return on plan assets

   $ 8          N/A     

1% increase in health care cost trend rate

     N/A         $ 2    

The following table presents the net periodic pension and OPEB cost for the years ended December 31:

 

Millions

  

Est. 

2015 

     2014       2013       2012   

Net periodic pension cost

   $ 105        $ 69        $ 110        $ 89    

Net periodic OPEB cost

     18          15          14          13    

Our net periodic pension cost is expected to increase to approximately $105 million in 2015 from $69 million in 2014. Our net periodic OPEB expense is expected to increase to approximately $18 million in 2015 from $15 million in 2014. The increases are driven by the implementation of new mortality tables issued by the Society of Actuaries in October 2014, along with a decrease in the pension discount rate to 3.94% and a decrease in the OPEB discount rate to 3.74%.

CAUTIONARY INFORMATION

Certain statements in this report, and statements in other reports or information filed or to be filed with the SEC (as well as information included in oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by us), are, or will be, forward-looking statements as defined by the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements and information include, without limitation, (A) statements in the Chairman’s letter preceding Part I; statements regarding planned capital expenditures under the caption “2015 Capital Expenditures” in Item 2 of Part I; statements regarding dividends in Item 5 of Part II; and statements and information set forth under the captions “2015 Outlook” and “Liquidity and Capital Resources” in this Item 7 of Part II, and (B) any other statements or information in this report (including information incorporated herein by reference) regarding: expectations as to financial performance, revenue growth and cost savings; the time by which goals, targets, or objectives will be achieved; projections, predictions, expectations, estimates, or forecasts as to our business, financial and operational results, future economic performance, and general economic conditions; expectations as to operational or service performance or improvements; expectations as to the effectiveness of steps taken or to be taken to improve operations and/or service, including capital expenditures for infrastructure improvements and equipment acquisitions, any strategic business acquisitions, and modifications to our transportation plans; expectations as to existing or proposed new products and services; expectations as to the impact of any new regulatory activities or legislation on our operations or financial results; estimates of costs relating to environmental remediation and restoration; estimates and expectations regarding tax matters; expectations that claims, litigation, environmental costs, commitments, contingent liabilities, labor negotiations or agreements, or other matters will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity and any other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements may be identified by their use of forward-looking terminology, such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “should,” “would,” “will,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “projects” and similar words, phrases or expressions.

Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times that, or by which, such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in the statements and information. Forward-looking statements and information reflect the good faith consideration by management of currently available information, and may be based on underlying assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. However, such information and assumptions (and, therefore, such forward-looking statements and information) are or may be subject to variables or unknown or unforeseeable events or circumstances over which management has little or no influence or control. The Risk Factors in Item 1A of this report could affect our future results and could cause those results or other outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements or

 

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information. To the extent circumstances require or we deem it otherwise necessary, we will update or amend these risk factors in a Form 10-Q, Form 8-K or subsequent Form 10-K. All forward-looking statements are qualified by, and should be read in conjunction with, these Risk Factors.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statement was made. We assume no obligation to update forward-looking information to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking information. If we do update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect thereto or with respect to other forward-looking statements.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Information concerning market risk sensitive instruments is set forth under Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Other Matters, Item 7.

****************************************

 

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

 

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

     Page   

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     51   

Consolidated Statements of Income
For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

     52   

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

     52   

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
At December 31, 2014 and 2013

     53   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

     54   

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Common Shareholders’ Equity
For the Years Ended December  31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

     55   

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

     56   

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Union Pacific Corporation

Omaha, Nebraska

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Union Pacific Corporation and Subsidiary Companies (the “Corporation”) as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in common shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Table of Contents at Part IV, Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Corporation’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Union Pacific Corporation and Subsidiary Companies as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 6, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

LOGO

Omaha, Nebraska

February 6, 2015

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

Union Pacific Corporation and Subsidiary Companies

 

Millions, Except Per Share Amounts,

for the Years Ended December 31,

   2014       2013       2012   

Operating revenues:

        

Freight revenues

   $         22,560        $         20,684        $         19,686   

Other revenues

     1,428          1,279          1,240   

 

Total operating revenues

     23,988          21,963          20,926   
                            

Operating expenses:

        

Compensation and benefits

     5,076          4,807          4,685    

Fuel

     3,539          3,534          3,608    

Purchased services and materials

     2,558          2,315          2,143    

Depreciation

     1,904          1,777          1,760    

Equipment and other rents

     1,234          1,235          1,197    

Other

     924          849          788    

 

Total operating expenses

     15,235          14,517          14,181    
                            

Operating income

     8,753          7,446          6,745    

Other income (Note 7)

     151          128          108    

Interest expense

     (561)          (526)          (535)    

Income before income taxes

     8,343          7,048          6,318    

Income taxes (Note 8)

     (3,163)          (2,660)          (2,375)    

 

Net income

   $ 5,180        $ 4,388        $ 3,943    
                            

Share and Per Share (Note 9):

        

Earnings per share - basic

   $ 5.77        $ 4.74        $ 4.17    

Earnings per share - diluted

   $ 5.75        $ 4.71        $ 4.14    

Weighted average number of shares - basic

     897.1          926.5          946.2    

Weighted average number of shares - diluted

     901.1          931.5          952.9    

 

Dividends declared per share

   $ 1.91        $ 1.48        $ 1.245    
                            

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Union Pacific Corporation and Subsidiary Companies

 

Millions,

for the Years Ended December 31,

   2014       2013       2012   

Net income

   $ 5,180        $ 4,388        $ 3,943    
                            

Other comprehensive income/(loss):

        

Defined benefit plans

     (448)          436          (145)    

Foreign currency translation

     (12)          (1)          12    

Derivatives

     -          1          1    

 

Total other comprehensive income/(loss) [a]

     (460)          436          (132)    
                            

 

Comprehensive income

   $           4,720        $           4,824        $           3,811    
                            

 

[a]

Net of deferred taxes of $291 million, ($264) million, and $82 million during 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

Union Pacific Corporation and Subsidiary Companies

 

Millions, Except Share and Per Share Amounts

as of December 31,

   2014       2013   

Assets

     

Current assets:

     

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 1,586        $ 1,432    

Accounts receivable, net (Note 11)

     1,611          1,414    

Materials and supplies

     712          653    

Current deferred income taxes (Note 8)

     277          268    

Other current assets

     493          223    

 

Total current assets

     4,679          3,990    
                   

Investments

     1,390          1,321    

Net properties (Note 12)

     46,272          43,749    

Other assets

     375          671    

 

Total assets

   $ 52,716        $ 49,731    
                   

Liabilities and Common Shareholders’ Equity

     

Current liabilities:

     

Accounts payable and other current liabilities (Note 13)

   $ 3,303        $ 3,086    

Debt due within one year (Note 15)

     462          705    

 

Total current liabilities

     3,765          3,791    
                   

Debt due after one year (Note 15)

     11,018          8,872    

Deferred income taxes (Note 8)

     14,680          14,163    

Other long-term liabilities

     2,064          1,680    

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 17 and 18)

                 

 

Total liabilities

     31,527          28,506    
                   

Common shareholders’ equity:

     

Common shares, $2.50 par value, 1,400,000,000 authorized;

     

1,110,100,423 and 1,109,657,652 issued; 883,366,476 and 912,001,996

     

outstanding, respectively

     2,775          2,774    

Paid-in-surplus

     4,321          4,210    

Retained earnings

     27,367          23,901    

Treasury stock

     (12,064)          (8,910)    

Accumulated other comprehensive loss (Note 10)

     (1,210)          (750)    

 

Total common shareholders’ equity

     21,189          21,225    

Total liabilities and common shareholders’ equity

   $         52,716        $         49,731    

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Union Pacific Corporation and Subsidiary Companies

 

Millions, for the Years Ended December 31,

   2014       2013       2012   

Operating Activities

        

Net income

   $         5,180        $         4,388        $         3,943    

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:

        

Depreciation

     1,904          1,777          1,760    

Deferred income taxes and unrecognized tax benefits

     895          723          887    

Other operating activities, net

     (285)          (226)          (160)    

Changes in current assets and liabilities:

        

Accounts receivable, net

     (197)          (83)          70    

Materials and supplies

     (59)          7          (46)    

Other current assets

     (270)          74          (108)    

Accounts payable and other current liabilities

     217          163          (185)    

Cash provided by operating activities

     7,385          6,823          6,161    

Investing Activities

        

Capital investments

     (4,346)          (3,496)          (3,738)    

Proceeds from asset sales

     138          98          80    

Acquisition of equipment pending financing

     -          -          (274)    

Proceeds from sale of assets financed

     -          -          274    

Other investing activities, net

     (41)          (7)          25    

Cash used in investing activities

     (4,249)          (3,405)          (3,633)    

Financing Activities

        

Common share repurchases (Note 19)

     (3,225)          (2,218)          (1,474)    

Debt issued

     2,588          1,443          695    

Dividends paid

     (1,632)          (1,333)          (1,146)    

Debt repaid

     (710)          (640)          (758)    

Debt exchange

     -          (289)          -    

Other financing activities, net

     (3)          (12)          1    

Cash used in financing activities

     (2,982)          (3,049)          (2,682)    

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

     154          369          (154)    

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     1,432          1,063          1,217    

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   $ 1,586        $ 1,432        $ 1,063    

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

        

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

        

Cash dividends declared but not yet paid

   $ 438        $ 356        $ 318    

Capital investments accrued but not yet paid

     174          133          136    

Capital lease financings

     -          39          290    

Cash paid during the year for:

        

Interest, net of amounts capitalized

   $ (554)        $ (528)        $ (561)    

Income taxes, net of refunds

     (2,492)          (1,656)          (1,552)    

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN COMMON SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Union Pacific Corporation and Subsidiary Companies

 

Millions

 

Common 

Shares 

   

Treasury 

Shares 

    Common 
Shares 
   

Paid-in- 

Surplus 

    Retained 
Earnings 
    Treasury 
Stock 
    AOCI [a]      Total   

Balance at January 1, 2012

    1,108.7        (148.9)      $ 2,773       $ 4,031      $ 18,121      $ (5,293)      $ (1,054)      $ 18,578    
                                                                 

Net income

                      3,943                      3,943   

Other comp. loss

                                    (132)        (132)   

Conversion, stock option
exercises, forfeitures, and other

    0.6        4.2              82               60               142   

Share repurchases (Note 19)

          (25.6)                           (1,474)               (1,474)   

Cash dividends declared
($1.245 per share)

                            (1,180)                      (1,180)   

Balance at December 31, 2012

    1,109.3        (170.3)      $   2,773       $   4,113      $   20,884      $   (6,707)      $   (1,186)      $   19,877    
                                                                 

Net income

                      4,388                      4,388   

Other comp. income

                                    436        436   

Conversion, stock option
exercises, forfeitures, and other

    0.4        1.6              97               15               113   

Share repurchases (Note 19)

          (29.0)                           (2,218)               (2,218)   

Cash dividends declared
($1.48 per share)

                            (1,371)                      (1,371)   

Balance at December 31, 2013

    1,109.7        (197.7)      $ 2,774       $ 4,210      $ 23,901      $ (8,910)      $ (750)      $ 21,225    
                                                                 

Net income

                      5,180                      5,180   

Other comp. loss

                                    (460)        (460)   

Conversion, stock option
exercises, forfeitures, and other

    0.4        3.0              111               71               183   

Share repurchases (Note 19)

          (32.0)                           (3,225)               (3,225)   

Cash dividends declared
($1.91 per share)

                            (1,714)                      (1,714)   

Balance at December 31, 2014

    1,110.1        (226.7)      $ 2,775      $ 4,321      $ 27,367      $   (12,064)      $   (1,210)      $   21,189    
                                                                 

 

[a]

AOCI = Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) (Note 10)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Union Pacific Corporation and Subsidiary Companies

For purposes of this report, unless the context otherwise requires, all references herein to the “Corporation”, “Company”, “UPC”, “we”, “us”, and “our” mean Union Pacific Corporation and its subsidiaries, including Union Pacific Railroad Company, which will be separately referred to herein as “UPRR” or the “Railroad”.

1. Nature of Operations

Operations and Segmentation – We are a Class I railroad operating in the U.S. Our network includes 31,974 route miles, linking Pacific Coast and Gulf Coast ports with the Midwest and Eastern U.S. gateways and providing several corridors to key Mexican gateways. We own 26,012 miles and operate on the remainder pursuant to trackage rights or leases. We serve the western two-thirds of the country and maintain coordinated schedules with other rail carriers for the handling of freight to and from the Atlantic Coast, the Pacific Coast, the Southeast, the Southwest, Canada, and Mexico. Export and import traffic is moved through Gulf Coast and Pacific Coast ports and across the Mexican and Canadian borders.

The Railroad, along with its subsidiaries and rail affiliates, is our one reportable operating segment. Although we provide and review revenue by commodity group, we analyze the net financial results of the Railroad as one segment due to the integrated nature of our rail network. The following table provides freight revenue by commodity group:

 

Millions

   2014       2013       2012   

Agricultural Products

   $ 3,777        $ 3,276        $ 3,280    

Automotive

     2,103          2,077          1,807    

Chemicals

     3,664          3,501          3,238    

Coal

     4,127          3,978          3,912    

Industrial Products

     4,400          3,822          3,494    

Intermodal

     4,489          4,030          3,955    

Total freight revenues

   $     22,560        $     20,684        $     19,686    

Other revenues

     1,428          1,279          1,240    

 

Total operating revenues

   $ 23,988        $ 21,963        $ 20,926    
                            

Although our revenues are principally derived from customers domiciled in the U.S., the ultimate points of origination or destination for some products transported by us are outside the U.S. Each of our commodity groups includes revenue from shipments to and from Mexico. Included in the above table are revenues from our Mexico business which amounted to $2.3 billion in 2014, $2.1 billion in 2013, and $1.9 billion in 2012.

Basis of Presentation – The Consolidated Financial Statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (GAAP) as codified in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC).

2. Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation – The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Union Pacific Corporation and all of its subsidiaries. Investments in affiliated companies (20% to 50% owned) are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. All intercompany transactions are eliminated. We currently have no less than majority-owned investments that require consolidation under variable interest entity requirements.

Cash and Cash Equivalents – Cash equivalents consist of investments with original maturities of three months or less.

Accounts Receivable – Accounts receivable includes receivables reduced by an allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance is based upon historical losses, credit worthiness of customers, and current economic conditions. Receivables not expected to be collected in one year and the associated allowances are classified as other assets in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

 

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Investments – Investments represent our investments in affiliated companies (20% to 50% owned) that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and investments in companies (less than 20% owned) accounted for under the cost method of accounting.

Materials and Supplies – Materials and supplies are carried at the lower of average cost or market.

Property and Depreciation – Properties and equipment are carried at cost and are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated service lives, which are measured in years, except for rail in high-density traffic corridors (i.e., all rail lines except for those subject to abandonment, yard and switching tracks, and electronic yards), for which lives are measured in millions of gross tons per mile of track. We use the group method of depreciation in which all items with similar characteristics, use, and expected lives are grouped together in asset classes, and are depreciated using composite depreciation rates. The group method of depreciation treats each asset class as a pool of resources, not as singular items. We determine the estimated service lives of depreciable railroad assets by means of depreciation studies. Under the group method of depreciation, no gain or loss is recognized when depreciable property is retired or replaced in the ordinary course of business.

Impairment of Long-lived Assets – We review long-lived assets, including identifiable intangibles, for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If impairment indicators are present and the estimated future undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying value of the long-lived assets, the carrying value is reduced to the estimated fair value as measured by the discounted cash flows.

Revenue Recognition – We recognize freight revenues as freight moves from origin to destination. The allocation of revenue between reporting periods is based on the relative transit time in each reporting period with expenses recognized as incurred. Other revenues, which include revenues earned by our subsidiaries, revenues from our commuter rail operations, and accessorial revenue, are recognized as service is performed or contractual obligations are met. Customer incentives, which are primarily provided for shipping a specified cumulative volume or shipping to/from specific locations, are recorded as a reduction to operating revenues based on actual or projected future customer shipments.

Translation of Foreign Currency – Our portion of the assets and liabilities related to foreign investments are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Revenue and expenses are translated at the average rates of exchange prevailing during the year. Unrealized gains or losses are reflected within common shareholders’ equity as accumulated other comprehensive income or loss.

Fair Value Measurements – We use a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. The level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. These levels include:

Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2: Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

We have applied fair value measurements to our pension plan assets and short- and long-term debt.

Stock-Based Compensation – We have several stock-based compensation plans under which employees and non-employee directors receive stock options, nonvested retention shares, and nonvested stock units. We refer to the nonvested shares and stock units collectively as “retention awards”. We have elected to issue treasury shares to cover option exercises and stock unit vestings, while new shares are issued when retention shares are granted.

We measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based awards made to employees and directors, including stock options. Compensation expense is based on the calculated fair value of the awards as measured at the grant date and is expensed ratably over the service period of the awards (generally the vesting period). The fair value of retention awards is the closing stock price on the date of grant, while the fair value of stock options is determined by using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

 

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Earnings Per Share – Basic earnings per share are calculated on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during each period. Diluted earnings per share include shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options and stock-based awards where the conversion of such instruments would be dilutive.

Income Taxes – We account for income taxes by recording taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. These expected future tax consequences are measured based on current tax law; the effects of future tax legislation are not anticipated. Future tax legislation, such as a change in the corporate tax rate, could have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

When appropriate, we record a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets to reflect that these tax assets may not be realized. In determining whether a valuation allowance is appropriate, we consider whether it is more likely than not that all or some portion of our deferred tax assets will not be realized, based on management’s judgments using available evidence for purposes of estimating whether future taxable income will be sufficient to realize a deferred tax asset.

We recognize tax benefits that are more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. The amount recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon settlement. A liability for “unrecognized tax benefits” is recorded for any tax benefits claimed in our tax returns that do not meet these recognition and measurement standards.

Pension and Postretirement Benefits – We incur certain employment-related expenses associated with pensions and postretirement health benefits. In order to measure the expense associated with these benefits, we must make various assumptions including discount rates used to value certain liabilities, expected return on plan assets used to fund these expenses, compensation increases, employee turnover rates, anticipated mortality rates, and expected future health care costs. The assumptions used by us are based on our historical experience as well as current facts and circumstances. We use an actuarial analysis to measure the expense and liability associated with these benefits.

Personal Injury – The cost of injuries to employees and others on our property is charged to expense based on estimates of the ultimate cost and number of incidents each year. We use an actuarial analysis to measure the expense and liability. Our personal injury liability is not discounted to present value. Legal fees and incidental costs are expensed as incurred.

Asbestos – We estimate a liability for asserted and unasserted asbestos-related claims based on an assessment of the number and value of those claims. We use a statistical analysis to assist us in properly measuring our potential liability. Our liability for asbestos-related claims is not discounted to present value due to the uncertainty surrounding the timing of future payments. Legal fees and incidental costs are expensed as incurred.

Environmental – When environmental issues have been identified with respect to property currently or formerly owned, leased, or otherwise used in the conduct of our business, we perform, with the assistance of our consultants, environmental assessments on such property. We expense the cost of the assessments as incurred. We accrue the cost of remediation where our obligation is probable and such costs can be reasonably estimated. We do not discount our environmental liabilities when the timing of the anticipated cash payments is not fixed or readily determinable. Legal fees and incidental costs are expensed as incurred.

Use of Estimates – Our Consolidated Financial Statements include estimates and assumptions regarding certain assets, liabilities, revenue, and expenses and the disclosure of certain contingent assets and liabilities. Actual future results may differ from such estimates.

3. Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09 (ASU 2014-09), Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). ASU 2014-09 supersedes the revenue recognition guidance in Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in the exchange for those goods or services. This

 

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standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. ASU 2014-09 is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

4. Stock Split

On June 6, 2014, we completed a two-for-one stock split, effected in the form of a 100% stock dividend. The stock split entitled all shareholders of record at the close of business on May 27, 2014, to receive one additional share of our common stock, par value $2.50 per share, for each share of common stock held on that date. All references to common shares and per share amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the stock split for all periods presented.

5. Stock Options and Other Stock Plans

There are 7,140 restricted shares outstanding under the 1992 Restricted Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors of Union Pacific Corporation. We no longer grant awards of restricted shares under this plan.

In April 2000, the shareholders approved the Union Pacific Corporation 2000 Directors Plan (Directors Plan) whereby 2,200,000 shares of our common stock were reserved for issuance to our non-employee directors. Under the Directors Plan, each non-employee director, upon his or her initial election to the Board of Directors, receives a grant of 4,000 retention shares or retention stock units. Prior to December 31, 2007, each non-employee director received annually an option to purchase at fair value a number of shares of our common stock, not to exceed 20,000 shares during any calendar year, determined by dividing 60,000 by 1/3 of the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the date of such Board of Directors meeting, with the resulting quotient rounded up or down to the nearest 50 shares. In September 2007, the Board of Directors eliminated the annual payment of options for 2008 and all future years. As of December 31, 2014, 36,000 restricted shares and 78,000 options were outstanding under the Directors Plan.

The Union Pacific Corporation 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (2004 Plan) was approved by shareholders in April 2004. The 2004 Plan reserved 84,000,000 shares of our common stock for issuance, plus any shares subject to awards made under previous plans that were outstanding on April 16, 2004, and became available for regrant pursuant to the terms of the 2004 Plan. Under the 2004 Plan, non-qualified options, stock appreciation rights, retention sha