PSNA Operations Lead to Bullish Sentiment for International Paper (IP)

Core Viewpoint - International Paper (NYSE:IP) is recognized as one of the top paper and plastic packaging stocks to buy according to hedge funds, despite recent "light" fourth-quarter results and a cautious outlook for the upcoming year [1]. Group 1: Analyst Ratings and Price Targets - Citi analyst Anthony Pettinari raised the price target for International Paper from $46 to $47 while maintaining a Buy rating [1]. - Wells Fargo analyst Gabrial Hajde upgraded his rating from Underweight to Equal Weight and increased the price target from $36 to $40 [2]. Group 2: Company Operations and Strategy - Hajde noted significant improvements in the company's PSNA operations over the past couple of years, leading to a more balanced risk/reward profile and aligning with management's view that regions function better as independent companies [3]. - International Paper focuses on renewable fiber-based packaging and pulp products, structured into two segments: Industrial Packaging and Global Cellulose Fibers [4]. - The company expanded its presence in North America and EMEA through the acquisition of DS Smith in 2025 [4].