Deutsche Bank Starts International Paper (IP) at Hold, Flags Sector Pressures

International Paper Company (NYSE:IP) is included among the 15 Cheapest Stocks with Highest Dividends.

Deutsche Bank Starts International Paper (IP) at Hold, Flags Sector Pressures

On April 1, Deutsche Bank initiated coverage of International Paper Company (NYSE:IP) with a Hold rating. It also set a $38 price target on the stock. The firm said the packaging sector is “navigating a complex and evolving economic landscape” at the start of 2026. Last year’s pressures from weak consumer demand and cost inflation are still present. Now, higher oil prices and tariff-related challenges have added to the strain. The analyst noted that the firm is “constructive on the rigid and flexible packaging group” but remains “cautious” on fiber-based packaging.

On March 20, International Paper said it plans to build a new 468,000-square-foot sustainable packaging facility in Rankin County, Mississippi. The move is part of a broader effort to support long-term growth and improve operations. The company’s board approved the $225 million greenfield project after reviewing its manufacturing footprint. The site will be located in Brandon, near its existing Richland box plant.

The new facility is expected to replace older infrastructure with a more modern and efficient setup. The goal is to lower costs, improve product quality, and strengthen service across the Mid-South region. It will also include updated safety and operational technologies. Employees from the current Richland plant are expected to move to the new site once construction is complete. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026, with operations targeted for Q4 2027.

International Paper Company (NYSE:IP) is a sustainable packaging solutions company. Its segments include Packaging Solutions North America and Packaging Solutions EMEA. The company offers packaging, packaging services, and recycling solutions.

While we acknowledge the risk and potential of IP as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than IP and that has 10,000% upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: 13 Best Diversified Dividend Stocks to Buy Right Now and 14 Cheap DRIP Stocks to Buy Now

Disclosure: None. Follow Insider Monkey on Google News.