WESTPORT, Conn., Jan. 28, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Compass Diversified (NYSE: CODI) (“CODI”) today announced that its subsidiary, Altor Solutions (“Altor”), a leading designer and manufacturer of custom protective and cold-chain packaging solutions for the industrial and life sciences markets, completed a sale-leaseback transaction involving certain Altor-owned real estate assets, generating approximately $11 million in immediately-available cash proceeds. Altor will continue to operate at the facilities pu ...

Core Insights - Packaging Corporation of America (PKG) reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.32 for Q4 2025, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.41 and reflecting a 6% year-over-year decline due to lower volume and unfavorable production results from the acquired Greif Inc. business [1][10] Financial Performance - Q4 sales increased by 10.1% year-over-year to $2.36 billion, but this figure fell short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.42 billion [3][10] - The cost of products sold rose by 14.3% year-over-year to $1.92 billion, leading to a gross profit decline of 4.7% to $448 million [3] - Adjusted operating income for Q4 was $310.2 million, a 2.1% increase from $303.9 million in Q4 2024 [4] Segment Performance - In the Packaging segment, sales rose by 10.8% year-over-year to $2.19 billion, driven by higher prices, although lower production and sales volume offset this growth [5] - Total corrugated product shipments fell by 1.7% year-over-year, but including the Greif business, shipments per day increased by 17% [6] - The Paper segment reported revenues of $154 million, up 1.8% year-over-year, but lower than estimates, with adjusted operating profit decreasing to $33 million from $35 million in the prior year [7] Annual Performance - For FY 2025, PKG's adjusted EPS was $9.84, below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $9.93, while total sales reached $8.99 billion, reflecting a 7.2% year-over-year increase but missing the consensus estimate of $9.06 billion [8] Cash Flow and Outlook - The company ended 2025 with a cash balance of $668 million, down from $852 million at the end of 2024 [9] - For Q1 2026, PKG expects higher year-over-year volume in its legacy corrugated products plants, projecting an EPS of $2.20 [11] Stock Performance - PKG's shares have declined by 3.8% over the past year, compared to an 8.6% decline in the industry [12]

Core Viewpoint - Wall Street anticipates a year-over-year decline in earnings for Silgan Holdings despite an increase in revenues, with the actual results being crucial for stock price movement [1][2]. Earnings Expectations - Silgan is expected to report quarterly earnings of $0.65 per share, reflecting a year-over-year decrease of 23.5% [3]. - Revenue projections stand at $1.46 billion, indicating a 3.5% increase from the previous year [3]. Estimate Revisions - The consensus EPS estimate has been revised down by 0.21% over the last 30 days, indicating a reassessment by analysts [4]. - The Most Accurate Estimate for Silgan is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, resulting in an Earnings ESP of -0.61% [12]. Earnings Surprise Prediction - The Zacks Earnings ESP model suggests that a positive or negative reading indicates the likelihood of actual earnings deviating from consensus estimates, with positive readings being more predictive [9][10]. - Silgan currently holds a Zacks Rank of 4, complicating predictions of an earnings beat [12]. Historical Performance - In the last reported quarter, Silgan exceeded earnings expectations with a surprise of +0.83%, having beaten consensus EPS estimates three times over the last four quarters [13][14]. Conclusion - Silgan does not appear to be a strong candidate for an earnings beat, and investors should consider other factors when making decisions regarding the stock ahead of the earnings release [17].

Core Insights - Greif reported fiscal first-quarter 2026 results that met expectations despite ongoing softness in industrial demand, highlighting margin improvements driven by structural cost actions and increased shareholder returns through share repurchases [3][6][18] Financial Performance - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 24% year-over-year, with the adjusted EBITDA margin improving by 260 basis points to 12.3%, attributed to better price-cost dynamics and structural cost optimization [2][6] - The company reaffirmed the low end of its fiscal 2026 guidance, projecting $630 million in adjusted EBITDA and $315 million in adjusted free cash flow, with an expected free cash flow conversion of approximately 50% [5][6] Capital Allocation - Greif's capital allocation strategy prioritizes shareholder returns and balance-sheet strength, with leverage at approximately 1.2x. The company completed $130 million of a $150 million buyback and approved an additional $300 million repurchase authorization [4][18] - The company aims to repurchase up to 2% of shares outstanding annually, subject to board approval and balanced against other capital needs [18] Segment Performance - In Customized Polymer Solutions, demand was flat overall, with slight increases in intermediate bulk container volumes and declines in small and large containers. The company expects improvements in small containers in the second quarter due to agricultural seasonality [8] - Durable Metal Solutions faced pressure due to softness across regions, particularly among chemical customers, while Sustainable Fiber Solutions saw declining converting volumes amid North American industrial softness [10][12] Cost Optimization - Greif achieved run-rate cost optimization savings of $65 million, with a fiscal year-end target of $80–$90 million, primarily through SG&A actions [13] - Management emphasized that the cost optimization efforts are structural rather than cyclical, contributing to improved profitability despite volume headwinds [2][6] Market Outlook - The company noted that customer conversations indicate continued muted demand conditions, but it is actively pursuing commercial opportunities and transforming its commercial organization [14] - Greif's SiOx barrier technology is operational on its first machine in France, with additional machines planned for deployment, although the financial impact in fiscal 2026 is not expected to be significant [19][20]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 24% year-over-year, with EBITDA margins improving by 260 basis points to 12.3% due to cost optimization efforts [9][10] - Earnings per share rose by 140% year-over-year, driven by higher EBITDA and lower interest expenses, despite an increase in tax expenses [10] - The company reaffirmed its low-end guidance for 2026, targeting $630 million in adjusted EBITDA and $315 million in adjusted free cash flow [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Customized Polymer Solutions, demand was flat overall, with IBC volumes up low singles and small containers down low singles, while large containers declined mid-single digits [6][7] - Durable Metal Solutions faced pressure, particularly from chemical customers, while Sustainable Fiber Solutions saw volume declines due to industrial softness in North America [7] - Innovative Closure Solutions experienced a high single-digit decline in volumes, but total sales remained flat due to a strong price mix [7][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The overall market environment remains soft, particularly in fiber and steel, affecting demand across various segments [19] - The company noted that while some seasonality may improve small container volumes in Q2, the overall demand conditions are still muted [19][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on its "Build to Last" strategy, emphasizing cost optimization and capital flexibility to create shareholder value [3][4] - There is a commitment to organic growth, with significant capital allocated to high-return investments and a disciplined approach to share repurchases [12][14] - The management is transforming the commercial team to focus on aggressive market capture, shifting from a "farmer" to a "hunter" mentality [20][48] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the continued muted demand environment but expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage costs and drive growth [15][19] - The company is optimistic about the potential for volume recovery in the latter half of the year, supported by ongoing commercial initiatives [48][50] Other Important Information - The company completed $130 million of its $150 million share repurchase program and announced a new $300 million authorization for future buybacks [4][13] - The company is actively addressing manufacturing costs and expects improvements as the year progresses [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on inventory management and volume trends - Management noted that demand conditions remain muted, particularly in fiber and steel, but some seasonality may improve volumes in Q2 [19][20] Question: CapEx and growth projects - The company is deploying additional capacity in Europe and Africa, particularly in the mining sector, which is showing significant growth [26][27] Question: Volume performance and EBITDA guidance - Management expressed confidence in achieving volume targets for the year despite a weaker Q1, citing ongoing commercial activities and customer wins [48][50] Question: Price cost spread in Fiber - Management indicated that the price cost spread will be more favorable in the second half of the year, with ongoing efforts to manage costs effectively [35][36] Question: Share repurchase strategy - The company plans to maintain a disciplined approach to share repurchases, with a commitment to a 2% annual buyback, while remaining open to potential acquisitions [66][68]

Market Overview - U.S. stock futures rose on Wednesday following a mixed close on Tuesday, with major benchmark indices showing higher futures [1] - The CME Group's FedWatch tool indicates a 97.2% likelihood of the Federal Reserve keeping interest rates unchanged in January [2] - The 10-year Treasury bond yielded 4.24%, while the two-year bond was at 3.57% [2] Index Performance - Dow Jones increased by 0.04%, S&P 500 by 0.30%, Nasdaq 100 by 0.74%, and Russell 2000 by 0.40% in premarket trading [2] - The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:SPY) was up 0.33% at $697.77, and Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (NASDAQ:QQQ) advanced 0.77% to $635.96 [2] Stocks in Focus - Starbucks Corp. (NASDAQ:SBUX) was down 0.76% in premarket, projected to post quarterly earnings of $0.59 per share on revenue of $9.73 billion [4] - Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:MSFT) rose 0.087% ahead of earnings expected to be $3.97 per share on revenue of $80.27 billion [4] - Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) advanced 0.23%, projected to post quarterly earnings of $0.45 per share on revenue of $24.78 billion [4] - Seagate Technology Holdings PLC (NASDAQ:STX) jumped 10.02% after reporting better-than-expected revenue and earnings, along with strong guidance [4] Economic Insights - Jeffrey Roach, Chief Economist at LPL Financial, forecasts a resilient U.S. economy in 2026, with real economic growth projected at 2.5% year-over-year and nominal growth surpassing 5% [8] - Roach emphasizes that productivity growth, particularly from early AI adoption, will support economic expansion without reigniting inflation [8] - His team maintains a "tactical neutral stance on equities," favoring large-cap growth stocks and the communication services sector [9] Upcoming Economic Data - The FOMC will announce its interest-rate decision at 2:00 p.m., followed by a press conference from Fed Chair Powell at 2:30 p.m. ET [10] Commodities and Global Markets - Crude oil futures were down 0.22% to around $62.25 per barrel, while Gold Spot rose 1.75% to approximately $5,272.90 per ounce [11] - Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) was trading 1.52% higher at $89,223.76 per coin [13]

Core Insights - The article does not provide specific insights or analysis regarding any companies or industries, focusing instead on disclosures and disclaimers related to investment positions and opinions [1][2] Group 1 - There is no stock, option, or similar derivative position held by the author in any mentioned companies, nor are there plans to initiate such positions in the near future [1] - The article expresses personal opinions of the author and does not reflect the views of Seeking Alpha as a whole [2] - The content does not provide any investment recommendations or advice regarding suitability for particular investors [2]

Core Insights - Packaging Corp. reported $2.36 billion in revenue for Q4 2025, a year-over-year increase of 10.1%, but fell short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.42 billion by 2.42% [1] - The company's EPS for the quarter was $2.32, down from $2.47 a year ago, resulting in an EPS surprise of -3.73% compared to the consensus estimate of $2.41 [1] Financial Performance - Segment Sales for Packaging reached $2.19 billion, matching analyst estimates and reflecting a 10.8% increase year-over-year [4] - Segment Sales for Corporate and Other amounted to $19.8 million, exceeding the estimated $18.01 million, with a year-over-year growth of 4.2% [4] - Segment Sales for Paper were reported at $154.3 million, surpassing the average estimate of $149.99 million, showing a year-over-year increase of 1.9% [4] Operating Income - Segment operating income for Packaging was $309.2 million, below the average estimate of $356.5 million [4] - Segment operating loss for Corporate and Other was reported at -$31.7 million, better than the estimated -$40.37 million [4] - Segment operating income for Paper was $32.7 million, which was lower than the average estimate of $35.89 million [4] Stock Performance - Over the past month, shares of Packaging Corp. have returned +6.3%, outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +0.4% change [3] - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), indicating expected performance in line with the broader market in the near term [3]

Core Insights - DuPont de Nemours, Inc. is a global leader in innovation, focusing on advanced solutions in sectors such as healthcare, water, construction, and transportation, with a strong commitment to sustainability [1] Group 1: Sustainability Initiatives - The Tyvek® Sustainable Healthcare Packaging Awards program recognizes excellence in healthcare packaging that promotes sustainability using Tyvek, a durable and recyclable material [2] - The awards program is open to a diverse group of participants, including medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturers, sterile packaging manufacturers, healthcare facilities, universities, and material recovery facilities, who must showcase sustainability initiatives implemented within the last 18 months [2] Group 2: Strategic Goals - This initiative aligns with DuPont's strategy to foster a circular economy and reduce Scope 3 emissions, as stated by Lesley Aulick, the global business director for DuPont Tyvek and Typar Roll Goods [3] - DuPont's commitment to sustainability is supported by strong market performance, with Deutsche Bank maintaining a "Buy" rating for DuPont on January 23, 2026, and the stock priced at $44.31, reflecting investor optimism [3] Group 3: Awards Process - The application process for the Tyvek® Sustainable Healthcare Packaging Awards is open until May 22, 2026, with winners to be announced during the Medical Packaging Conference hosted by DuPont in Fall 2026 [4] - This event will highlight the innovative efforts of participants and further DuPont's mission to drive sustainability in healthcare packaging [4]

Core Viewpoint - Greif, Inc. reported strong fiscal first quarter 2026 results, demonstrating significant growth in Adjusted EBITDA and net income, despite a challenging demand environment [6][9]. Financial Highlights - Net income increased to $176.6 million or $3.00 per diluted Class A share, compared to $6.6 million or $0.13 per diluted Class A share in the previous year, marking a substantial increase [9]. - Adjusted EBITDA rose by 24.0% to $122.5 million from $98.8 million year-over-year [9]. - Total debt decreased by $1,896.2 million to $944.0 million, primarily due to debt repayment from the divestiture of the Containerboard Business [9]. - The leverage ratio improved to 1.2x from 3.6x in the prior year quarter [9]. Segment Results - **Customized Polymer Solutions**: Net sales increased by $10.7 million to $305.1 million, driven by positive foreign currency translation impacts [15]. - **Durable Metal Solutions**: Net sales decreased by $1.1 million to $354.8 million, primarily due to lower volumes, but gross profit increased by $1.7 million to $70.7 million [17]. - **Sustainable Fiber Solutions**: Net sales decreased by $32.1 million to $311.9 million, largely due to lower volumes, while operating profit surged by $217.4 million to $218.5 million due to a gain from the sale of timberlands [19]. - **Innovative Closure Solutions**: Net sales increased by $0.6 million to $23.0 million, with gross profit rising by $1.4 million to $8.9 million [22]. Strategic Actions - The company executed approximately $130.0 million in share repurchases during the first quarter and obtained authorization for an additional $300.0 million in future repurchases [9]. - Greif reaffirmed its low-end guidance for fiscal 2026, estimating Adjusted EBITDA at $630.0 million and Adjusted Free Cash Flow at $315.0 million [26]. Company Outlook - The company acknowledges a multi-year period of industrial contraction and does not foresee a compelling demand inflection in the near term, maintaining a cautious outlook [25].