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With a market cap of $24.2 billion, International Paper Company (IP) is a global leader in the production of renewable fiber-based packaging and pulp products. Operating through its Industrial Packaging and Global Cellulose Fibers segments, the company manufactures corrugated packaging for global commerce and pulp used in personal care products.
Companies worth more than $10 billion are generally labeled as “large-cap” stocks, and International Paper fits this criterion perfectly. With manufacturing operations across North America, Latin America, Europe, Russia, Asia, and North Africa, International Paper serves a broad customer base through direct sales and a network of agents, resellers, and distributors.
Shares of the Memphis, Tennessee-based company have declined 24.1% from its 52-week high of $60.36. Over the past three months, its shares have decreased 12.4%, underperforming the broader Dow Jones Industrials Average's ($DOWI) marginal rise during the same period.
Longer term, IP stock is down 14.9% on a YTD basis, a steeper drop than DOWI's marginal decline. Moreover, shares of the global paper and packaging company have dipped 1.6% over the past 52 weeks, compared to DOWI’s 7.9% increase over the same time frame.
Despite a few fluctuations, the stock has fallen below its 50-day moving average since March. Also, it has slipped below its 200-day moving averages since April.
Shares of International Paper fell 4.1% on Apr. 30 after the company reported Q1 2025 adjusted EPS of $0.23 and revenue of $5.9 billion, missing forecasts. The disappointing results were driven by weaker-than-expected demand for corrugated cardboard and fiber packaging in North America and Europe, amid inflationary pressures and recession fears.
In comparison, rival Packaging Corporation of America (PKG) has outpaced IP stock over the past 52 weeks, though rising only marginally. However, YTD, PKG shares have declined 17%, a steeper drop than IP’s performance.
Despite the stock’s weak performance, analysts remain moderately optimistic about its prospects. The stock has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” from 12 analysts in coverage, and as of writing, IP is trading below the mean price target of $56.14.
On the date of publication, Sohini Mondal did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
