International Paper Q1 2021 Earnings Report
Key Takeaways
International Paper reported solid earnings and strong cash generation in the first quarter of 2021. The company's operations performed well, mitigating the impact of the winter storm and supporting strong customer demand in the packaging business. Momentum is expected to continue building across all three businesses, with continued strong demand for corrugated packaging and absorbent pulp, and a more favorable supply/demand backdrop for printing papers.
First quarter net earnings attributable to International Paper was $349 million ($0.88 per diluted share).
First quarter adjusted operating earnings (non-GAAP) was $299 million ($0.76 per diluted share).
First quarter cash provided by operations was $512 million.
Returned $331 million to shareholders through dividends of $202 million and share repurchases of $129 million.
International Paper
International Paper
International Paper Revenue by Segment
Forward Guidance
International Paper anticipates continued strong demand for corrugated packaging and absorbent pulp. They are also observing a more favorable supply/demand dynamic for printing papers, contributing to a more optimistic outlook for 2021.
Positive Outlook
- Continued strong demand for corrugated packaging
- Continued strong demand for absorbent pulp
- Much better supply/demand backdrop for printing papers
- Favorable outlook in 2021
- Operationally, performed well to mitigate the significant impact of the winter storm
Challenges Ahead
- Still in the midst of a global pandemic
- Health and safety of employees remains most important responsibility
- Winter storm in the U.S. had a pre-tax earnings impact of $(80) million ($(0.15) per diluted share)
- Higher planned maintenance outage expenses in North America
- Higher input costs for wood and energy in North America
Revenue & Expenses
Visualization of income flow from segment revenue to net income