BNSF’s fourth-quarter 2020 net profit up 5%

A 6% decline in operating expenses contributed to a 5% increase in overall fourth-quarter net profit for BNSF (NYSE: BRK).

BNSF is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, which acquired the western U.S. railroad in February 2010.

Net income was $1.5 billion in the fourth quarter of 2020, a 5% increase from $1.4 billion in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Total revenue slipped 3% to nearly $5.7 billion in the fourth quarter, while operating expenses fell 6% to $3.5 billion.

Among BNSF’s business...