The Norfolk Southern derailment conversation is shifting towards ECP brakes, Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corp. (WAB) makes them.


The conversation is now centering around prior legislation that would have required EPC (electronic pneumatic) brakes on trains carrying certain hazardous materials. This, along with the public's newfound realization that train derailments are a daily occurrence in the US could push legislators and/or regulators to, again, push for EPC brake requirements. I did some basic research, and there are two companies that produce EPC braking systems: Westinghouse Air Brake Company Inc. (WAB), and New York Air Brake which is wholly owned by the German manufacturer, Knorr-Bremse (KNRRY). Westinghouse Air Brake has recently had increasing YOY revenues and earnings, has consistently beat analysts' forecasts, and has been paying down long-term debt. Their P/E is currently a bit high for their sector, but increased demand could push it higher.

For full disclosure, I just bought a few shares, myself.


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