Revenue during the quarter grew 4.37 percent to $642.50 million from $615.60 million in the previous year period. Gross margin for the quarter expanded 354 basis points over the previous year period to 70.94 percent. Total expenses were 66.71 percent of quarterly revenues, down from 68.14 percent for the same period last year. This has led to an improvement of 144 basis points in operating margin to 33.29 percent.

Operating income for the quarter was $213.90 million, compared with $196.10 million in the previous year period.

"Kansas City Southern achieved record financial results with growth in all six commodity groups in 2014," stated President and Chief Executive Officer David L. Starling. "Strong volume growth in our Agriculture & Minerals and Automotive commodity groups contributed to a record adjusted operating ratio of 67.1%, a reduction of 1.7 points over the prior year's operating ratio.

"Looking ahead to 2015, we believe KCS is well-positioned to maintain its growth momentum driven by a strengthening economy and unique franchise opportunities. We expect to see positive developments in a wide-range of commodity groups, including automotive, intermodal, and chemical & petroleum products. And, while there is significant volatility in the energy markets, KCS anticipates volume growth in crude oil traffic originating in Canada and terminating at various Gulf locations. These exciting growth areas provide visibility to continued growth over the next decade."