Greif Stock Downgraded to 'Strong Sell' by Zacks Research

Analysts cite concerns over the industrial packaging company's future performance

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:10am

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A highly detailed, cinematic close-up of industrial machinery and gears in shades of grey, representing the physical, mechanical nature of Greif's packaging business.An extreme close-up of the complex machinery and infrastructure that powers Greif's industrial packaging operations.Cleveland Today

Zacks Research has downgraded shares of Greif (NYSE:GEF) from a 'hold' rating to a 'strong sell' rating, citing worries about the company's future performance. The move comes after several other research firms recently adjusted their price targets and ratings for the industrial packaging provider.

Why it matters

Greif is a major player in the global industrial packaging market, so a 'strong sell' rating from a prominent research firm could signal broader concerns about the company's outlook and the state of the broader packaging industry. This downgrade may impact investor sentiment and the stock price in the near term.

The details

In its report, Zacks Research pointed to a number of factors that led to the downgrade, including a drop in Greif's target price from Wells Fargo and a 'hold' rating from Truist Financial. The analysts noted Greif's recent earnings miss and cited challenges facing the company as it navigates the current economic environment.

  • Zacks Research issued the downgrade on Thursday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Greif

A global leader in industrial packaging products and services, with a history dating back to 1877. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, the company manufactures and sells a range of industrial packaging solutions including steel, plastic and fiber drums, intermediate bulk containers, and containerboard.

Zacks Research

A prominent equity research firm that provides investment research, analysis, and recommendations to investors.

Wells Fargo

A major U.S. financial services company that recently lowered its price target for Greif stock.

Truist Financial

A diversified financial services company that maintained a 'hold' rating on Greif's stock.

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What they’re saying

“We must downgrade Greif to a 'strong sell' rating due to the company's recent earnings miss and the challenging market conditions it faces.”

— Zacks Research Analyst

What’s next

Investors will be closely watching Greif's upcoming earnings reports and any further analyst commentary on the company's outlook as it navigates the current economic environment.

The takeaway

This downgrade from Zacks Research highlights the uncertainty surrounding Greif's future performance and the broader challenges facing the industrial packaging industry. Investors will need to carefully monitor the company's progress in the coming quarters.