International Paper Acquires Packaging Firm DS Smith; Eyes Secondary Listing On London Stock Exchange
Portfolio Pulse from Shivani Kumaresan
International Paper Company (NYSE:IP) has announced the acquisition of DS Smith Plc (OTC:DITHF) for approximately $9.9 billion, planning a secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange. The deal, expected to close by Q4 2024, values DS Smith shares at 415 pence each, with IP issuing 0.1285 shares for each DS Smith share. This transaction will result in IP shareholders owning 66.3% and DS Smith shareholders 33.7% of the combined entity. The merger aims to create a leading sustainable fiber-based packaging company, expecting to achieve $514 million in annual pre-tax cash synergies by the fourth year post-completion. The combined company will be headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, with an EMEA headquarters in London.
April 16, 2024 | 10:31 am
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DS Smith Plc is being acquired by International Paper for approximately $9.9 billion, a move that values DS Smith shares at 415 pence each. DS Smith shareholders will own 33.7% of the combined entity post-transaction.
The acquisition by International Paper represents a significant premium on DS Smith's current valuation, likely leading to a positive short-term impact on DS Smith's stock price. The strategic merger positions DS Smith within a larger, more diversified global packaging leader, potentially unlocking significant value for its shareholders.
CONFIDENCE 80
IMPORTANCE 90
RELEVANCE 90
POSITIVE IMPACT
International Paper's acquisition of DS Smith for $9.9 billion aims to strengthen its global packaging business, with plans for a secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange. The deal is expected to close by Q4 2024, enhancing IP's sustainable packaging offerings.
The acquisition of DS Smith by International Paper is a significant strategic move to expand its global packaging business and enhance its sustainability profile. The deal's completion and the expected synergies could positively impact IP's financial performance and stock price in the short term, despite a slight drop in share price following the announcement. The secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange could also broaden its investor base.
CONFIDENCE 80
IMPORTANCE 90
RELEVANCE 100