International Paper Reports First Quarter 2026 Results

Rhea-AI Summary

International Paper (NYSE: IP) reported Q1 2026 results for the quarter ended March 31, 2026: net sales $5.97B, earnings from continuing operations $76M, adjusted EBITDA $677M, cash from operations $611M and free cash flow $94M. The company received $1.1B net proceeds from the sale of its Global Cellulose Fibers business and used $660M to reduce debt. Management cited winter-storm impacts, inflationary input costs and ongoing separation planning for EMEA while reaffirming focus on cost, reliability and capital discipline. Updated 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance: Q2 $520–$570M; Full‑Year $3.20–$3.50B.

Positive

• Net sales +13.5% YoY to $5.97B
• Earnings from continuing operations $76M versus a $124M loss a year ago
• Cash provided by operations $611M versus $(288)M prior year
• Free cash flow $94M versus $(618)M prior year
• Proceeds $1.1B from Global Cellulose Fibers sale; $660M debt paydown

Negative

• Input and operating costs rose due to a severe winter storm and higher natural gas/utility expenses
• Net special items: after‑tax charge of $19M in Q1 2026
• Packaging Solutions EMEA reported a $(51)M operating loss in Q1 2026

Key Figures

Net sales: $5.97B Earnings from continuing ops: $76M Adjusted EBITDA: $677M +5 more

8 metrics

Net sales $5.97B Q1 2026 net sales from continuing operations

Earnings from continuing ops $76M Q1 2026 earnings from continuing operations

Adjusted EBITDA $677M Q1 2026 adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations

Cash from operations $611M Q1 2026 cash provided by operating activities

Free cash flow $94M Q1 2026 free cash flow (non-GAAP)

Net sale proceeds $1.1B Net proceeds from sale of Global Cellulose Fibers business

Debt paydown $660M Debt repaid using Global Cellulose Fibers sale proceeds

Adjusted EPS $0.15 Q1 2026 adjusted operating earnings per diluted share

Market Reality Check

Price: $33.58 Vol: Volume 7,926,772 vs 20-da...

normal vol

$33.58 Last Close

Volume Volume 7,926,772 vs 20-day average 6,843,044 (relative volume 1.16). normal

Technical Shares at $33.58, trading below 200-day MA of $42.69 and 40.17% under 52-week high.

Peers on Argus

IP was at $33.58 (24h change -1.29%) before earnings. Peers like SW (-2.1%), AMC...

1 Down

IP was at $33.58 (24h change -1.29%) before earnings. Peers like SW (-2.1%), AMCR (-2.73%), PKG (-2.78%) and BALL (-1.24%) were also down, while AVY slipped -0.4%. Momentum scanner only flagged SW, suggesting more company-specific focus for IP despite broader packaging weakness.

Common Catalyst Same-day peer news includes earnings (SW) and dividends (AVY), pointing to routine corporate updates rather than a single sector-wide catalyst.

Previous Earnings Reports

5 past events · Latest: Jan 29 (Negative)

Same Type Pattern 5 events

Date	Event	Sentiment	Move	Catalyst
Jan 29	Full-year 2025 earnings	Negative	-6.0%	Large PS EMEA goodwill impairment and plan to separate into two companies.
Oct 30	Q3 2025 earnings	Negative	-12.7%	Significant losses, accelerated depreciation and divestiture of Global Cellulose Fibers.
Jul 31	Q2 2025 earnings	Positive	-12.8%	Net earnings and higher sales with DS Smith, but market reacted negatively.
Apr 30	Q1 2025 earnings	Negative	-4.1%	Net loss and transformation charges despite higher net sales and adjusted earnings.
Jan 30	FY 2024 & Q4 earnings	Neutral	-1.6%	Full-year profit but Q4 loss with sizable restructuring and mill closure charges.

Pattern Detected

Recent earnings releases have often been followed by share-price weakness, with an average move of -7.44% across the last 5 earnings-related events.

Recent Company History

Over the last several earnings cycles, International Paper has navigated large charges, portfolio reshaping and a planned separation of its businesses. Prior updates highlighted goodwill impairment in PS EMEA, mill closures tied to the 80/20 strategy, and integration of DS Smith. Recent results showed adjusted EBITDA in the multi‑billion‑dollar range and net sales above $18B–$23B annually. The latest quarter’s $5.97B net sales, positive earnings from continuing operations, and 2026 EBITDA targets fit into this ongoing turnaround and restructuring narrative.

Historical Comparison

-7.4% avg move · Across the last 5 earnings headlines, IP’s average move was -7.44%, underscoring that quarterly resu...

earnings

-7.4%

Average Historical Move earnings

Across the last 5 earnings headlines, IP’s average move was -7.44%, underscoring that quarterly results have often been a volatility catalyst.

Earnings updates trace a shift from legacy mills and Global Cellulose Fibers toward a refocused packaging portfolio and a planned North America/EMEA separation, with EBITDA targets stepping up post‑DS Smith.

Market Pulse Summary

This announcement detailed Q1 2026 performance, including $5.97B in net sales, $76M in earnings from...

Analysis

This announcement detailed Q1 2026 performance, including $5.97B in net sales, $76M in earnings from continuing operations, $677M in adjusted EBITDA and $611M of operating cash flow, alongside $1.1B in sale proceeds and debt reduction. It continues themes from prior earnings: portfolio reshaping, cost actions and the planned separation of EMEA. Investors may watch future quarters for consistency of cash generation, progress on separation milestones and how macro conditions affect both North America and EMEA packaging margins.

Key Terms

adjusted ebitda, non-gaap, free cash flow, diluted earnings (loss) per share, +4 more

8 terms

adjusted ebitda financial

"Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) from continuing operations of $677 million"

Adjusted EBITDA is a way companies measure how much money they make from their core operations, like running a business, by removing certain costs or income that aren’t part of regular business activities. It helps investors see how well a company is doing without distractions from unusual expenses or gains, making it easier to compare companies or track performance over time.

non-gaap financial

"Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) from continuing operations of $677 million"

Non-GAAP refers to financial measures that companies use to show their earnings or performance without including certain expenses or income that are often added back to give a different picture. It matters because it can make a company's results look better or more favorable, but it may also hide important costs, so investors need to look at both GAAP (official rules) and non-GAAP numbers to get a full understanding.

free cash flow financial

"Free cash flow (non-GAAP) of $94 million"

Free cash flow is the amount of money a company has left over after paying all its expenses and investing in its business, like buying equipment or updating facilities. It shows how much cash is available to reward shareholders, pay down debt, or save for future growth. This helps investors understand if a company is financially healthy and able to grow.

diluted earnings (loss) per share financial

"Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations | | $ 0.14"

Diluted earnings (loss) per share measures how much profit or loss is attributable to each share of stock after assuming all potential shares from things like stock options, warrants or convertible bonds are issued. Investors use it to see the weakest-case per-share result—like slicing the same pie among more people—to judge true per-share value and compare companies when future share dilution could change returns.

form 10-q regulatory

"we intend to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on May 5, 2026."

A Form 10-Q is a detailed report that publicly traded companies are required to file with regulators three times a year, providing an update on their financial health and business activities. It is important for investors because it offers timely insights into a company's performance, helping them make informed decisions about buying or selling stocks. Think of it as a regular check-up report that shows how well a company is doing.

asc 280 technical

"in accordance with ASC 280 - "Segment Reporting""

ASC 280 is the U.S. accounting rule that requires companies to break down and report the financial results of their separate business parts, such as divisions, product lines, or geographic regions. For investors, these disclosures act like room-by-room budgeting in a house: they reveal which parts of the business make or lose money, where growth or risk is concentrated, and help compare performance across peers and time.

segment reporting technical

"presented in our financial statement footnotes in accordance with ASC 280 - "Segment Reporting""

Segment reporting is the practice of breaking a company's financial results into the separate parts of its business—such as product lines, geographic areas, or divisions—so outsiders can see how each part is performing. For investors, it matters because it reveals which areas drive profit or loss, like inspecting individual rooms in a house to know which need repair or add value, helping assess growth prospects and risks more accurately.

goodwill impairment financial

"Non-cash goodwill impairment related to the Company's PS EMEA business segment."

Goodwill impairment occurs when a company’s valued reputation or brand strength, known as goodwill, is found to be worth less than previously recorded on its financial statements. This usually happens when the company's performance declines or market conditions change, signaling that the expected benefits from acquisitions or brand value are no longer as strong. It matters to investors because it can indicate that a company's assets are less valuable than initially thought, potentially affecting its overall financial health.

AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.

FIRST QUARTER 2026 FINANCIAL SUMMARY

• Net sales of $5.97 billion
• Earnings from continuing operations of $76 million
• Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) from continuing operations of $677 million
• Received $1.1 billion of net proceeds from the sale of the Global Cellulose Fibers business and paid down $660 million of debt
• Cash provided by operating activities of $611 million
• Free cash flow (non-GAAP) of $94 million

2026 FINANCIAL TARGETS

• Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) from continuing operations
  • Second quarter: $520-$570 million
  • Full-Year: $3.20-$3.50 billion

MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) (the "Company") today announced results for the quarter ended March 31, 2026.

"This quarter, we delivered meaningful progress across the business. In North America, our commercial actions are gaining traction and helping us outgrow the market, while we advance cost-out efforts and make solid gains in mill and box plant productivity. In EMEA, we're accelerating commercial and cost initiatives while a small core team is focusing on the planned separation," said International Paper Chairman and CEO Andy Silvernail. "We still have work to do to improve consistency and reliability, but the primary pressures this quarter came from a tougher macro environment, including ongoing inflation and the severe winter storm."

"Looking ahead," Silvernail added, "our priorities are clear: execute with discipline, improve reliability and performance across our network and manage capital with rigor. We're updating our outlook to reflect the volatile environment, with a strong focus on managing cost and cash flow. We remain confident in our strategy, and the planned separation will enable our North America and EMEA businesses to operate independently and deliver stronger performance."

Select Financial Measures

The preliminary first quarter 2026 results discussed in this release will be finalized in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which we intend to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on May 5, 2026.

(In millions)		First Quarter 2026		First Quarter 2025		Fourth Quarter 2025
Net Sales		$             5,971		$             5,264		$             6,006
Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations		76		(124)		(2,363)
Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations		677		689		758
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss)		81		73		(43)
Cash Provided By (Used For) Operating Activities		611		(288)		905
Free Cash Flow		94		(618)		255

Diluted EPS from Continuing Operations and Adjusted Operating EPS

		First Quarter 2026		First Quarter 2025		Fourth Quarter 2025
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations		$               0.14		$              (0.28)		$              (4.48)
Add Back – Non-Operating Pension Expense (Income)		(0.03)		0.01		(0.01)
Add Back – Net Special Items Expense (Income)		0.05		0.54		4.98
Income Taxes - Non-Operating Pension and Special Items		(0.01)		(0.10)		(0.57)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Per Share		$               0.15		$               0.17		$              (0.08)

NON-GAAP MEASURES
This release refers to the non-GAAP financial measures defined below. The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures, when viewed alongside the most directly comparable GAAP measures, provides for a more complete analysis of the Company's results from continuing operations. Reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP measures and an explanation of why management believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors are included later in this release.

Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations is a non-GAAP financial measure defined as earnings (loss) from continuing operations (a GAAP measure) before income taxes, equity earnings (loss), interest expense, net, net special items, non-operating pension expense (income) and depreciation and amortization. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is earnings (loss) from continuing operations.

Adjusted operating earnings (loss) and adjusted operating earnings (loss) per share are non-GAAP financial measures defined as earnings (loss) from continuing operations (a GAAP measure) excluding net special items and non-operating pension expense (income). Earnings (loss) from continuing operations and diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations are the most directly comparable GAAP measures. The Company calculates adjusted operating earnings (loss) (non-GAAP) by excluding the after-tax effect of non-operating pension expense (income) and net special items from the earnings (loss) from continuing operations reported under U.S. GAAP. Adjusted operating earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing adjusted operating earnings (loss) by the diluted average shares of common stock outstanding.

Free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure defined as cash provided by (used for) operations (a GAAP measure) less capital expenditures. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is cash provided by (used for) operations.

For discussion of net special items and non-operating pension expense (income), see the disclosure under Effects of Net Special Items and Consolidated Statement of Operations and related notes included later in this release.

SEGMENT INFORMATION
The following table presents net sales and business segment operating profit (loss), which is the Company's measure of segment profitability. Business segment operating profit (loss) is a measure reported to our management for purposes of making decisions about allocating resources to our business segments and assessing the performance of our business segments and is presented in our financial statement footnotes in accordance with ASC 280 - "Segment Reporting". First quarter 2026 net sales by business segment and operating profit (loss) by business segment compared with the fourth quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2025 are as follows:

Business Segment Results

(In millions)		First Quarter 2026		First Quarter 2025		Fourth Quarter 2025
Net Sales by Business Segment
Packaging Solutions North America		$            3,626		$            3,702		$            3,715
Packaging Solutions EMEA		2,323		1,550		2,300
Corporate and Inter-segment Sales		22		12		(9)
Net Sales		$            5,971		$            5,264		$            6,006
Business Segment Operating Profit (Loss)
Packaging Solutions North America		$               248		$               142		$               319
Packaging Solutions EMEA		(51)		46		(223)

Packaging Solutions North America (PS NA) business segment operating profit (loss) in the first quarter of 2026 was $248 million compared with $319 million in the fourth quarter of 2025. In the first quarter of 2026, net sales decreased as higher export pricing and a favorable mix were more than offset by seasonally lower volumes. Cost of products sold increased driven by higher operating costs and input costs, partially offset by lower planned maintenance outage costs.  Operating costs were unfavorably affected by winter storm impacts and higher costs for goods and services which more than offset footprint cost out benefits and improved mill and box system productivity. Input costs also increased due to higher natural gas costs and utility costs driven by the winter storm. Planned maintenance outage costs were lower due to the deferral of an outage to the second quarter of 2026.    

Packaging Solutions EMEA (PS EMEA) business segment operating profit (loss) in the first quarter of 2026 was $(51) million compared with $(223) million in the fourth quarter of 2025. Net sales increased in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the fourth quarter of 2025, reflecting higher sales volumes. Sales prices for paper were lower but were offset by improved packaging margins. Cost of products sold increased driven by higher sales volumes and slightly higher energy costs. Planned maintenance outage costs were lower in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the fourth quarter of 2025. Depreciation and amortization expense was lower as the fourth quarter of 2025 was impacted by the finalization of the acquisition accounting of DS Smith and higher accelerated depreciation associated with mill and plant closures.

EFFECTS OF NET SPECIAL ITEMS

Continuing Operations
Net special items include items considered by management to not be reflective of the Company's underlying operations. Net special items in the first quarter of 2026 amount to a net after-tax charge of $19 million ($0.04 per diluted share) compared with a net after-tax charge of $195 million ($0.44 per diluted share) in the first quarter of 2025 and a net after-tax charge of $2.32 billion ($4.41 per diluted share) in the fourth quarter of 2025. Net special items in all periods include the following charges (benefits):

		First Quarter 2026				First Quarter 2025				Fourth Quarter 2025
(In millions)		Before Tax		After Tax		Before Tax		After Tax		Before Tax		After Tax
Severance and other costs		$        23		$        17	(a)	$        83		$        63	(a)	$       162		$       128	(a)
PS EMEA separation costs		11		8	(b)	—		—		—		—
PS EMEA goodwill impairment		—		—		—		—		2,467		2,196	(c)
DS Smith combination costs (benefits)		—		—		221		183	(b)	10		8	(b)
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses		—		—		—		—		10		8	(d)
Income tax refund interest		(11)		(8)	(e)	—		—		—		—
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of assets		—		—		(67)		(51)	(f)	(18)		(12)	(f)
Other		3		2		—		—		(5)		(4)
Total special items, net		$        26		$        19		$       237		$       195		$     2,626		$     2,324

 

(a)	Severance and other costs associated with the Company's 80/20 strategic approach which includes the realignment of resources and mill strategic actions. See note (e) of the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
(b)	Transaction, integration and other costs/benefits that the Company believes are not reflective of the Company's underlying operations. See notes (a), (b), and (d) of the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
(c)	Non-cash goodwill impairment related to the Company's PS EMEA business segment. See note (f) of the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
(d)	Includes charges related to the sale of the Company's kraft paper bag business and the sale of five European box plants in Mortagne, Saint-Amand and Cabourg (France), Ovar (Portugal) and Bilbao (Spain) to satisfy regulatory commitments in connection with the DS Smith combination. See note (g) of the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
(e)	Interest income related to an income tax refund.  See note (i) of the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
(f)	Includes gains on assets sales related to our permanently closed Courtland, Alabama paper mill and Orange, Texas containerboard mill and net charges associated with the sale of the Company's aircraft and other assets. See note (h) of the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

EARNINGS WEBCAST

The Company will host a webcast today to discuss first quarter 2026 earnings, provide an update on the continued separation of its EMEA packaging business and review current market conditions as well as its full-year outlook, beginning at 10 a.m. ET (9 a.m. CT). All interested parties are invited to listen to the webcast via the Company's website by clicking on the Investors tab and going to the Events & Presentations page at https://www.internationalpaper.com/investors/events-presentations. A replay of the webcast will also be on the website beginning approximately two hours after the call.

Parties who wish to participate in the webcast via teleconference may dial +1 (646) 307-1963 or, within the U.S. only, (800) 715-9871, and ask to be connected to the International Paper first quarter 2026 earnings call. The conference ID number is 4841889. Participants should call in no later than 9:45 a.m. ET (8:45 a.m. CT). An audio-only replay will be available for ninety days following the call. To access the replay, dial +1 (609) 800-9909 or, within the U.S. only, (800) 770-2030 and when prompted for the conference ID, enter 4841889.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL PAPER (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC)
International Paper creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release that are not historical in nature may be considered "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking or conditional words such as "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "could," "should," "can," "forecast," "outlook," "intend," "look," "may," "will," "remain," "confident," "commit," "plan," and "preliminary" or similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and reflect management's current views and speak only as to the dates the statements are made and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding anticipated financial results, economic conditions, industry trends, future prospects, and the anticipated benefits, execution and consummation of strategic corporate transactions. Factors which could cause actual results to differ include but are not limited to: (i) our ability to consummate and achieve the benefits expected from, and other risks, costs and expenses associated with, our plans to separate our North America and Europe, Middle East and Africa ("EMEA") operations into two independent public companies and other acquisitions, joint ventures, divestitures, spinoffs, capital investments and other corporate transactions on a timely basis or at all, including the risk that an impairment charge may be recorded for goodwill or other intangible assets, which may lead to decreased assets and reduced net earnings; (ii) our ability to successfully integrate and realize anticipated synergies, cost savings and profit opportunities from acquired companies; (iii) risks associated with our strategic business decisions including facility closures, business exits, operational changes, corporate restructurings and portfolio rationalizations intended to support the Company's 80/20 strategic approach for long-term growth; (iv) our failure to comply with the obligations associated with being a public company listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange and the costs associated therewith; (v) risks with respect to climate change and global, regional, and local weather conditions, as well as risks related to our targets and goals with respect to climate change and the emission of greenhouse gases and other environmental, social and governance matters, including our ability to meet such targets and goals; (vi) loss contingencies and pending, threatened or future litigation, including with respect to environmental and antitrust related matters; (vii) the level of our indebtedness, risks associated with our variable rate debt and changes in interest rates; (viii) the impact of global and domestic economic conditions and industry conditions, including with respect to current challenging macroeconomic conditions, inflationary pressures and changes in the cost or availability of raw materials, energy price increases or shortages in energy sources and transportation sources, supply chain shortages and disruptions, competition we face, cyclicality and changes in consumer preferences, demand and pricing for our products, and conditions impacting the credit, capital and financial markets; (ix) risks arising from conducting business internationally, domestic and global geopolitical conditions and tensions involving military conflict and geopolitical tensions (including major global actors such as Russia, the Middle East, the further expansion of such conflicts and tensions, and the geopolitical and economic consequences associated therewith), changes in currency exchange rates, including in light of our assets, liabilities and earnings denominated in foreign currencies as we proceed with the planned separation of our North America and EMEA packaging business, trade policies (including but not limited to protectionist measures and the imposition of new or increased tariffs as well as the potential impact of retaliatory tariffs and other penalties including retaliatory policies against the United States) and global trade tensions, downgrades in our credit ratings, and/or the credit ratings of banks issuing certain letters of credit, issued by recognized credit rating organizations; (x) the amount of our future pension funding obligations, and pension and healthcare costs; (xi) the costs of compliance, or the failure to comply with, existing, evolving or new environmental (including with respect to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions), tax, trade, labor and employment, privacy, anti-bribery and anti-corruption, and other U.S. and non-U.S. governmental laws, regulations and policies (including but not limited to those in the United Kingdom and European Union); (xii) a material disruption at any of our manufacturing facilities or other adverse impact on our operations due to severe weather, natural disasters, climate change or other causes; (xiii) cybersecurity and information technology risks, including as a result of security breaches and cybersecurity incidents; (xiv) our exposure to claims under our agreements with Sylvamo Corporation; (xv) our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel and maintain good employee or labor relations; (xvi) our ability to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting; and (xvii) our ability to adequately secure and protect our intellectual property rights. These and other factors that could cause or contribute to actual results differing materially from such forward-looking statements can be found in our press releases and reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to the Company or that we currently believe to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations Preliminary and Unaudited (In millions, except per share amounts)
			Three Months Ended March 31,				Three Months Ended December 31,
			2026		2025		2025
	Net Sales		$           5,971		$            5,264		$                                 6,006
	Costs and Expenses
	Cost of products sold		4,244		3,805	(a)	4,123	(a)
	Selling and administrative expenses		510	(b)	487	(b)	545	(b)
	Depreciation and amortization		489	(c)	520	(c)	697	(c)
	Distribution expenses		513		417		543
	Taxes other than payroll and income taxes		41		87	(d)	42
	Restructuring charges, net		23	(e)	83	(e)	162	(e)
	Impairment of goodwill		—		—		2,467	(f)
	Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses		—		—		10	(g)
	Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of assets		—		(67)	(h)	(18)	(h)
	Interest expense, net		76	(i)	84		95
	Non-operating pension expense (income)		(18)		3		(6)
	Earnings (Loss) From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings (Loss)		93		(155)		(2,654)
	Income tax provision (benefit)		17		(32)		(291)	(j)
	Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes		—		(1)		—
	Earnings (Loss) From Continuing Operations		76		(124)		(2,363)
	Discontinued Operations, net of taxes		(16)	(k)	19	(k)	(21)	(k)
	Net Earnings (Loss)		$                 60		$              (105)		$                               (2,384)
	Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share
	Earnings (loss) from continuing operations		$              0.14		$             (0.28)		$                                 (4.48)
	Discontinued operations		(0.03)		0.04		(0.04)
	Net earnings (loss)		$              0.11		$             (0.24)		$                                 (4.52)
	Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share
	Earnings (loss) from continuing operations		$              0.14		$             (0.28)		$                                 (4.48)
	Discontinued operations		(0.03)		0.04		(0.04)
	Net earnings (loss)		$              0.11		$             (0.24)		$                                 (4.52)
	Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding - Diluted		531.8		437.6		528.0
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this Consolidated Statement of Operations.
(a)	Includes a pre-tax charge of $70 million ($52 million after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 for the inventory step-up recognized in purchase accounting related to the DS Smith combination and a pre-tax benefit of $5 million ($4 million after taxes) for the three months ended December 31, 2025 for other items.
(b)	Includes a pre-tax charge of $11 million ($8 million after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2026 for costs associated with the announced separation of our PS EMEA business, pre-tax charges of $101 million ($81 million after taxes) and $10 million ($8 million after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2025, respectively, for transaction costs and integration costs associated with the DS Smith combination and a pre-tax charge of $3 million ($2 million after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2026 for other costs.
(c)	Includes pre-tax charges of $16 million, $197 million and $86 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026, March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2025, respectively, for accelerated depreciation associated with our site closures.
(d)	Includes a pre-tax charge of $50 million (before and after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 for a UK stamp tax associated with the DS Smith combination.
(e)	Includes pre-tax charges of $23 million ($17 million after taxes), $83 million ($63 million after taxes) and $162 million ($128 million after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2026, March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2025, respectively, for severance and other costs related to our mill closures and 80/20 strategic actions.
(f)	Includes a charge of $2.5 billion (before and after taxes) for the three months ended December 31, 2025 for the non-cash impairment of goodwill in our PS EMEA business.
(g)	Includes a pre-tax charge of $5 million ($4 million after taxes) for the three months ended December 31, 2025 related to the sale of our kraft paper bag business and a pre-tax charge of $5 million ($4 million after taxes) for the three months ended December 31, 2025 related to the sale of five European box plants in Mortagne, Saint-Amand, and Cabourg (France), Ovar (Portugal) and Bilbao (Spain) to satisfy regulatory commitments in connection with the DS Smith combination.
(h)	Includes a pre-tax gain of $62 million ($47 million after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 for asset sales related to our permanently closed Orange, Texas containerboard mill, a pre-tax gain of $5 million ($4 million after taxes) and charge of $7 million (before and after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2025, respectively, related to miscellaneous land sales and other items, a pre-tax charge of $2 million ($1 million after taxes) for the three months ended December 31, 2025 related to the sale of aircraft assets and a pre-tax gain of $27 million ($20 million after taxes) for the three months ended December 31, 2025 for asset sales related to our permanently closed Courtland, Alabama paper mill.
(i)	Includes pre-tax income of $11 million ($8 million after taxes) for the three months ended March 31, 2026 for interest income related to an income tax refund.
(j)	Includes a deferred tax benefit of $271 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 related to the EMEA goodwill impairment. This deferred tax benefit is expected to offset cash taxes in 2027.
(k)	Includes the results for the former Global Cellulose Fibers business which was sold on January 23, 2026.

 

	INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY Reconciliation of Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations to Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Preliminary and Unaudited (In millions, except per share amounts)
		Three Months Ended March 31,				Three Months Ended December 31,
		2026		2025		2025
	Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations	$                           76		$                       (124)		$                               (2,363)
	Add back: Non-operating pension expense (income)	(18)		3		(6)
	Add back: Net special items expense (income)	26		237		2,626
	Income taxes - Non-operating pension and special items	(3)		(43)		(300)
	Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss)	$                           81		$                            73		$                                    (43)
		Three Months Ended March 31,				Three Months Ended December 31,
		2026		2025		2025
	Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Common Share from Continuing Operations	$                        0.14		$                      (0.28)		$                                 (4.48)
	Add back: Non-operating pension expense (income)	(0.03)		0.01		(0.01)
	Add back: Net special items expense (income)	0.05		0.54		4.98
	Income taxes per share - Non-operating pension and special items	(0.01)		(0.10)		(0.57)
	Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) per Share	$                        0.15		$                        0.17		$                                 (0.08)
Notes:
	Management uses adjusted operating earnings (loss) and adjusted operating earnings (loss) per share (non-GAAP financial measures) to focus on on-going operations and believes that such non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors in assessing the operational performance of the Company and enabling investors to perform meaningful comparisons of past and present consolidated operating results from continuing operations. The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures, viewed alongside the most directly comparable GAAP measures, provides for a more complete analysis of the Company's results from continuing operations. See the section Non-GAAP Measures included in this release for the definitions of adjusted operating earnings and adjusted operating earnings per share and the most directly comparable GAAP measures.
	Non-operating pension expense (income) represents amortization of prior service cost, amortization of actuarial gains/losses, expected return on assets and interest cost. The Company excludes these amounts from adjusted operating earnings (loss) as the Company does not believe these items reflect ongoing operations. These particular pension cost elements are not directly attributable to current employee service. The Company includes service cost in our non-GAAP financial measure as it is directly attributable to employee service, and the corresponding employees' compensation elements, in connection with ongoing operations.

 

	INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY Calculation of Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations Preliminary and Unaudited (In millions)
			Three Months Ended March 31,				Three Months Ended December 31,
			2026		2025		2025
	Earnings (Loss) From Continuing Operations		$                     76		$                 (124)		$                          (2,363)
	Add back: Income tax provision (benefit)		17		(32)		(291)
	Less: Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes		0		(1)		0
	Earnings (Loss) From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings (Loss)		93		(155)		(2,654)
	Interest expense, net		76		84		95
	Special items		37		237		2,626
	Non-operating pension expense (income)		(18)		3		(6)
	Depreciation and amortization		489		520		697
	Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations		$                   677		$                   689		$                                758
Notes:
	Management uses adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations (a non-GAAP financial measure) to focus on on-going operations and believes this measure is useful to investors in assessing the operational performance of the Company and enabling investors to perform meaningful comparisons of past and present consolidated operating results from continuing operations. The Company believes that adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations, viewed alongside the most directly comparable GAAP measure, provides for a more complete analysis of the Company's results from continuing operations. See the section titeld Non-GAAP Measures included in this release for the definition of adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations and the most directly comparable GAAP measure.

 

	INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY Calculation of Adjusted EBITDA Outlook from Continuing Operations Preliminary and Unaudited (In millions)
		Three Months Ended  June 30, 2026		Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2026
	Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations	$(19) - $31		$965 - $1,265
	Add back:  Income tax provision (benefit)	—		—
	Less:  Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes	—		—
	Earnings (Loss) From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings (Loss)	$(19) - $31		$965 - $1,265
	Interest expense, net	92		370
	Special items	—		37
	Non-operating pension expense (income)	(18)		(72)
	Depreciation and amortization	465		1,900
	Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations	$520 - $570		$3,200 - $3,500
Notes:
	Management uses adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations (a non-GAAP financial measure) to focus on on-going operations and believes this measure is useful to investors in assessing the operational performance of the Company and enabling investors to perform meaningful comparisons of past and present consolidated operating results from continuing operations. The company believes that adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations, viewed alongside the directly comparable GAAP measure, provides for a more complete analysis of the Company's results from continuing operations. See the section titled Non-GAAP Measures included in this release for the definition of adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations and the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Income tax provision (benefit) is excluded from the target setting as we are unable to quantify certain amounts that would be required to be included in the GAAP measure without unreasonable efforts, including forecasting net income for 2026. Special items excluded from the target setting are difficult to predict and quantify and may reflect the effect of future events.

 

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Preliminary and Unaudited (In millions)
	March 31, 2026		December 31, 2025
Assets
Current Assets
Cash and Temporary Investments	$                     1,236		$                     1,145
Restricted cash	63		—
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net	4,022		3,791
Contract Assets	670		635
Assets Held for Sale	85		1,800
Inventories	1,902		2,012
Other	602		723
Total Current Assets	8,580		10,106
Plants, Properties and Equipment, Net	14,252		14,443
Goodwill	5,297		5,326
Intangibles, Net	4,060		4,043
Long-Term Financial Assets of Variable Interest Entities	2,354		2,349
Right of Use Assets	652		697
Overfunded Pension Plan Assets	507		486
Deferred Charges and Other Assets	732		514
Total Assets	$                  36,434		$                  37,964
Liabilities and Equity
Current Liabilities
Notes Payable and Current Maturities of Long-Term Debt	$                       918		$                       992
Liabilities Held for Sale	6		502
Accounts Payable and Other Current Liabilities	6,149		6,405
Total Current Liabilities	7,073		7,899
Long-Term Debt	8,175		8,839
Deferred Income Taxes	1,963		1,898
Long-Term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Variable Interest Entities	2,129		2,127
Long-Term Lease Obligations	450		486
Underfunded Pension Benefit Obligation	297		316
Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Obligation	131		133
Other Liabilities	1,408		1,439
Equity
Common Stock	627		627
Paid-in Capital	14,352		14,414
Retained Earnings	4,699		4,885
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	(366)		(528)
	19,312		19,398
Less: Common Stock Held in Treasury, at Cost	4,504		4,571
Total Equity	14,808		14,827
Total Liabilities and Equity	$                  36,434		$                  37,964

 

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Preliminary and Unaudited (In millions)
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2026		2025
Operating Activities
Net earnings (loss)		$                          60		$                       (105)
Depreciation and amortization		489		571
Deferred income tax expense (benefit), net		7		(74)
Restructuring charges, net		23		83
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses		3		—
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of assets		—		(67)
Periodic pension (income) expense, net		13		13
Other, net		52		(87)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Accounts and notes receivable		(158)		(178)
Contract assets		(39)		(47)
Inventories		58		22
Accounts payable		158		97
Other current liabilities		(272)		(444)
Other current assets		217		(72)
Cash Provided By (Used For) Operating Activities		611		(288)
Investment Activities
Capital expenditures		(517)		(330)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired		—		415
Proceeds from divestitures, net of cash divested		1,059		—
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets		21		83
Proceeds from insurance recoveries		8		28
Other		(6)		41
Cash Provided By (Used For) Investment Activities		565		237
Financing Activities
Issuance of debt		—		239
Reduction of debt		(660)		(6)
Change in book overdrafts		(84)		94
Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock tax withholding		(30)		(62)
Dividends paid		(245)		(244)
Cash Provided By (Used for) Financing Activities		(1,019)		21
Cash Included in Assets Held for Sale		—		(2)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Temporary Investments and Restricted Cash		(11)		18
Change in Cash and Temporary Investments and Restricted Cash		146		(14)
Cash and Temporary Investments and Restricted Cash
Beginning of the period		1,161		1,170
End of the period		$                     1,307		$                      1,156

 

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY Reconciliation of Cash Provided by Operations to Free Cash Flow Preliminary and Unaudited (In millions)
	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2026		2025
Cash Provided By (Used For) Operating Activities	$                                  611		$                                 (288)
Adjustments:
Capital expenditures	(517)		(330)
Free Cash Flow	$                                    94		$                                 (618)
Management uses free cash flow (a non-GAAP financial measure) in connection with managing our business and believes that free cash flow is useful to investors as a liquidity measure because it measures the amount of cash generated that is available, after reinvesting in the business, to maintain a strong balance sheet, pay dividends, repurchase stock, service debt and make investments for future growth. It should not be inferred that the entire free cash flow amount is available for discretionary expenditures. See the section titled Non-GAAP Measures included in this release for the definition of free cash flow and the most directly comparable GAAP measure.
The preliminary non-GAAP financial measures presented in this release have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for an analysis of our results calculated in accordance with GAAP. In addition, because not all companies use identical calculations, the Company's presentation of preliminary non-GAAP financial measures in this release may not be comparable to similarly titled measures disclosed by other companies, including companies in the same industry as International Paper.
Management believes non-GAAP financial measures, when used in conjunction with information presented in accordance with GAAP, can facilitate a better understanding of the impact of various factors and trends on the Company's financial results.  Management also uses these non-GAAP financial measures in making financial, operating and planning decisions and in evaluating the Company's performance. Investors are cautioned to not place undue reliance on any preliminary non-GAAP financial measures used in this release.

 

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SOURCE International Paper

FAQ

What were International Paper (IP) Q1 2026 sales and earnings results?

International Paper reported Q1 2026 net sales of $5.97B and earnings from continuing operations of $76M. According to company, adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations was $677M and diluted EPS from continuing operations was $0.14.

How did International Paper's cash flow perform in Q1 2026 (IP)?

Cash from operations was $611M and free cash flow was $94M in Q1 2026. According to company, improved cash generation reflects operational cash conversion and proceeds from the sale of Global Cellulose Fibers.

What guidance did International Paper (IP) give for 2026 adjusted EBITDA?

The company set Q2 adjusted EBITDA guidance of $520–$570M and full‑year adjusted EBITDA of $3.20–$3.50B. According to company, guidance reflects a volatile macro environment and emphasis on cost and cash management.

What impact did the Global Cellulose Fibers sale have on International Paper (IP)?

International Paper received $1.1B net proceeds from the sale and used $660M to pay down debt. According to company, the transaction strengthened the balance sheet and improved liquidity while separation activities continue.

Why did Packaging Solutions North America and EMEA results change in Q1 2026 for IP?

PS NA operating profit was $248M with lower volumes and higher costs from a winter storm; PS EMEA had a $(51)M loss but improved versus prior quarter. According to company, higher input costs and outage timing affected results.