The Globe and Mail reports in its Thursday, Jan. 25, edition that ATB Capital Markets analyst Chris Murray is keeping his "sector perform" recommendation for Canadian National Railway intact. The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that Mr. Murray's share target soared $15 to $180. Analysts on average target the shares at $171.82. Mr. Murray says CN appears poised for a strong second half recovery in the current fiscal year. Mr. Murray says in a note: "CN reported an O/R [operating ratio] of 59.3 per cent, with a more constructive volume outlook and better car velocity, positioning the company for further improvement in 2024. ... While the near-term outlook remains unclear, particularly given its exposure to international intermodal volumes, the company maintains a balanced freight mix, including a strong commodities franchise, which we expect to support margins and significant free cash flow generation and returns to shareholders despite heightened uncertainty." The Globe reported on April 26 that Mr. Murray had reaffirmed CN at "sector perform." Its shares could then be had for $159.24. The Globe reported on Jan. 11 that CIBC cut CN to "neutral" from "outperformer." It was then worth $166.40.