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International Paper Stock Slides After BofA Downgrade Cites Limited Upside
International Paper (NYSE: IP) shares traded lower on Tuesday after BofA Securities downgraded the stock to Neutral from a previous Buy rating. The firm also trimmed its price target on the packaging company to $41 from $44, citing a belief that the positive investment thesis has run its course.
Analyst Rationale
In a note to clients, BofA Securities analysts explained that the primary driver for their previous bullish stance—rising containerboard prices—has largely materialized. They pointed out that prices have already climbed by approximately $100 per ton since the firm first upgraded the stock in August 2025, which was in line with their forecast.
While the analysts acknowledge that a third price hike could occur in the fall, they see more limited upside from current levels. The firm also flagged softening market conditions for containerboard in Europe as a potential headwind for International Paper's operations in the region.
AdBroader Context and Market Pressure
The downgrade comes at a challenging time for the company. International Paper is currently in a pre-earnings quiet period ahead of its second-quarter 2026 results, which are scheduled for release on July 30. This limits the potential for near-term positive catalysts to counter the negative sentiment.
Furthermore, the stock is contending with a previously reduced full-year EBITDA outlook and broader market weakness. U.S. equity indices were down on Tuesday as investors awaited key inflation data and digested rising oil prices, which have renewed concerns about potential Federal Reserve rate hikes. This macroeconomic uncertainty has added pressure to rate-sensitive industrial stocks, including International Paper.
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