Sealed Air Corporation (NYSE:SEE) is one of the 8 best paper and plastic packaging stocks to buy according to hedge funds. As of the close of play on February 6, consensus sentiment around Sealed Air Corporation (NYSE:SEE) was Neutral. The stock received coverage from 8 analysts, 2 of whom assigned Buy ratings and 6 Hold ratings. With no Sell rating, it carries a projected median 1-year price target of $44.03, implying upside of more than 5%. LyondellBasell (LYB) Drops on 6th Day as Earnings Disappoint ...

Core Insights - Sealed Air reported a significant earnings beat for Q2 2025, with adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP) at $0.89, surpassing analyst expectations of $0.71 [1][2] - GAAP revenue reached $1.33 billion, slightly exceeding forecasts but showing a decline of less than 1% compared to Q2 2024 [1][2] - Management reaffirmed full-year 2025 guidance, indicating caution due to ongoing volume pressures [1][12] Financial Performance - Adjusted EPS increased by 7.2% year-over-year from $0.83 in Q2 2024 [2] - Adjusted EBITDA was reported at $293 million, up 2.8% from $285 million in Q2 2024 [2] - Free cash flow (non-GAAP) for the first six months was $81 million, a decline of 60.9% from $207 million in the previous year [2][8] Business Overview - Sealed Air specializes in protective and food packaging products, operating in two segments: Food and Protective [3] - The company emphasizes sustainable packaging, automation, and operational efficiency as part of its strategic focus [4] Segment Performance - The Food segment reported GAAP net sales of $896 million, essentially flat year-over-year, with a 1% decline in volume offset by pricing actions [6] - The Protective segment experienced a 3% decrease in sales, driven by lower volume and price declines [7] - Adjusted EBITDA margin in the Food segment improved to 23.4%, while the Protective segment's margin dropped to 17.8% [6][7] Strategic Initiatives - The CTO2Grow program aims for substantial annual savings and has contributed to improved operating leverage and lower interest expenses [5][11] - The company holds over 2,400 patents and 2,200 trademarks, reinforcing its commitment to packaging innovation [10] Sustainability and Future Outlook - Sustainability remains a key focus, with efforts directed towards recyclable and renewable materials, although no measurable progress was reported in the quarter [11] - Management's guidance for full-year 2025 includes net sales between $5.1 billion and $5.5 billion, adjusted EBITDA between $1,075 million and $1,175 million, and adjusted EPS between $2.90 and $3.30 [12]