Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS OF SMURFIT WESTROCK
The following discussion and analysis of Smurfit Westrock’s financial condition and results of operations should be read in
conjunction with Smurfit Westrock’s audited Consolidated Financial Statements and their related notes for the year ended
December 31, 2025 and our audited Consolidated Financial Statements and their related notes for the year ended December 31,
2024 . This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Smurfit Westrock’s future results could
differ materially from the results discussed below. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not
limited to, those identified below and those discussed in the Item 1A. Risk Factors. Please refer to the section above entitled
“Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" for additional information.
Smurfit Kappa was determined to be the accounting acquirer in the Combination; therefore, the historical consolidated financial
statements of Smurfit Kappa for periods prior to the Combination were also considered to be the historical financial statements of the
Company. Unless otherwise specified or the context otherwise requires, all references to the “Company” and “Smurfit Kappa” refer
to Smurfit Kappa Group plc and its subsidiaries and their operations when referring to periods prior to the closing of the
Combination, and references to the “Company” and “Smurfit Westrock” refer to the combined company, Smurfit Westrock and its
subsidiaries, including, among others, Smurfit Kappa and WestRock, when referring to periods after the Combination.
OVERVIEW
Smurfit Westrock is one of the world's largest integrated manufacturers of paper-based packaging products in terms of volumes and
sales, with operations in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Smurfit Westrock partners with its
customers to provide differentiated, sustainable paper and packaging solutions that enhance its customers’ prospects of success in their
markets.
Transaction Agreement and Combination with WestRock
Smurfit Westrock was created in July 2024 as a strategic combination betwe en Smurfit Kappa Group plc (re-registered as Smurfit
Kappa Group Limited) (“S murfit Kappa”) and WestRock Company (“WestRock”). The Combination closed on July 5, 2024. Upon
completion of the Combination, Smurfit Kappa and WestRock each became wholly-owned subsidiaries of Smurfit Westrock. As noted
above, Smurfit Kappa was determined to be the accounting acquirer of WestRock. Accordingly, the financial statements reflected in
these Consolidated Financial Statements and the discussions below include WestRock's financial position and results of operations for
the period subsequent to the completion of the Combination on July 5, 2024. Consequently, the results reported for the twelve months
ended December 31, 2024 do not include WestRock’s financial results for the first five days of July or any prior periods. Therefore, in
fiscal 2025 acquired WestRock operations were included for an incremental six months and five days compared to fiscal 2024.
Refer to “Note 2. Acquisitions ” of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to the Combination and
the accounting for the Combination.
Following the completion of the Combination, Smurfit Westrock reassessed the Company’s reportable segments due to changes in
organizational structure and how the Company’s chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) makes key operating decisions, allocates
resources and assesses the performance of the business. Accordingly, Smurfit Westrock began to manage the combined business as
three reportable segments: (1) North America, (2) Europe, MEA and APAC, and (3) LATAM. Refer to “Note 3. Segment
Information ” of the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the Company’s segment reporting structure.
A detailed discussion of the fiscal 2025 year-over-year changes can be found below and a detailed discussion of fiscal 2024 year-over-
year changes can be found in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in
our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Smurfit Westrock’s net sales increased by $10,070 million , to $31,179 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from
$21,109 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to the impact of $9,845 million related to the
acquisition of WestRock. Excluding the impact of this acquisition, net sales increased by $225 million primarily resulting from a
$487 million positive impact due to a higher selling price mix and a $452 million net positive foreign currency impact, partially offset
by a negative volume impact of $716 million . See “Segment Information” below for more detail on Smurfit Westrock’s segment
results.
Net income attributable to common shareholders increased by $380 million , to $699 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 ,
from $319 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . The increase was primarily due to the operations acquired in the
Combination. In the year ended December 31, 2025 , the positive impact of the acquired operations was partially offset by increased
interest expense, net , post Combination, and we incurred increased impairment and restructuring costs . In the year ended
December 31, 2024 , we incurred higher transaction and integration-related expenses associated with the Combination and a charge of
$224 million for the amortization of the fair value step up on inventory recognized on WestRock’s inventory acquired. See “Note 5.
Impairment and Restructuring Costs ” and “Note 6. Transaction and Integration-related Expenses Associated with the Combination ” of
the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. Refer to “Results of Operations” and “Segment Information” for a
detailed review of Smurfit Westrock’s performance.
Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $1,909 million , to $3,392 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from
$1,483 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 , primarily due to a $1,489 million increase in net income adjusted for non-cash
items, primarily including depreciation, depletion and amortization , impairment charges, cash surrender value increase in excess of
premiums paid , share-based compensation expense , deferred income tax benefit , and pension and other postretirement funding more
than cost . The increase in net cash provided by operating activities also included a $420 million decrease in the cash outflows from
changes in operating assets and liabilities. During the year ended December 31, 2025 , Smurfit Westrock invested $2,192 million in
capital expenditures. The Company’s net cash outflow from changes in debt was $304 million , and it paid $900 million of cash
dividends to shareholders. See the section entitled “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below for additional information.
SIGNIFICANT FACTORS AND TRENDS AFFECTING SMURFIT WESTROCK’S RESULTS
Smurfit Westrock’s operations have been, and will continue to be, affected by many factors, some of which are beyond the Company’s
control. Smurfit Westrock’s net sales are primarily derived from the sale of containerboard, corrugated containers, paperboard,
consumer packaging, and other paper-based packaging products. As such, Smurfit Westrock’s net sales during any period are largely
influenced by volumes, prices and costs of the corrugated containers and consumer packaging products that Smurfit Westrock sells
during that period.
Volumes
In general, demand for corrugated containers and consumer packaging is closely correlated with overall economic growth and activity.
It also directionally correlates with levels of industrial production and is impacted by the trends affecting the choice of medium (paper,
plastic, glass, metal, or wood) used in the packaging of these products. As a result, demand is driven by the need for: (i) packaging
products for consumer and industrial goods, (ii) higher value-added corrugated products used for point-of-sale displays and consumer
and shelf-ready packaging, and (iii) packaging of pharmaceutical products and the growth of related industries. Normal patterns of
demand growth can be disrupted by other macroeconomic trends, including inflation, pandemics (such as the COVID-19 pandemic
and related lockdowns), and global economic factors such as a recession and geopolitical developments (including tariffs or other
trade restrictions), among others.
Consumer patterns also play a significant role in demand for corrugated packaging and consumer packaging. In recent years, shifting
consumer behaviors have accelerated, particularly with the rise of e-commerce and increased awareness of unsustainable packaging
solutions. These trends have, to date, been beneficial for paper-based packaging, which is typically made from renewable, recyclable
materials. Changing demographics can also influence demand trends in the pharmaceutical industry, a major user of consumer
packaging.
Our volumes may also be impacted in certain periods by scheduled or unscheduled maintenance, particularly in our mill system, as
well as economic downtime as we match our supply with customer demand.
Prices and Costs
Prices of corrugated containers and consumer packaging are primarily a function of the cyclical nature of Smurfit Westrock’s industry,
capacity and competition in the markets it operates in, prevailing raw material prices, and other operating costs, such as energy,
chemicals, and transportation, overlaying supply and demand balances.
As paper costs generally represent a large portion of the cash cost of production for corrugated containers or consumer packaging,
containerboard price movements tend to impact the prices of corrugated containers, and paperboard price movements tend to impact
the prices of consumer packaging. In turn, the cost of paper is influenced by movements in the price of its major raw materials—wood
or recycled paper—along with other supply and demand factors. Smurfit Westrock’s production processes are energy-intensive,
making production costs also sensitive to the price of energy (primarily gas and electricity), which have historically been volatile.
Other key cost drivers include employee benefit expenses, largely determined by workforce size, and shipping and handling costs,
which are generally affected by fuel prices and overall labor inflation.
While many of Smurfit Westrock’s customer contracts include price adjustment clauses that allow cost increases to be passed on to
customers, these clauses may not in all cases be effective to offset rising costs. Additionally, for corrugated and consumer packaging
products, even when Smurfit Westrock is able to implement price increases, there is typically a three- to six-month lag between raw
material price hikes and the realization of higher pricing from customers.
Foreign Currency Effects
Smurfit Westrock operates in multiple countries across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. As a
result, currency fluctuations can have both direct and indirect impacts on its financial statements, which are presented in U.S. dollars.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table summarizes Smurfit Westrock’s consolidated results for the years ended December 31, 2025 and December 31,
2024 ($ in millions):
Years ended December 31,
Net sales
Cost of goods sold
Gross profit
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Impairment and restructuring costs
Transaction and integration-related expenses associated with the Combination
Operating profit
Interest expense, net
Pension and other postretirement non-service income (expense), net
Other expense, net
Income before income taxes
Income tax expense
Net income
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to common shareholders
Results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2025 , compared to the year ended December 31, 2024
Net Sales
Net sales increased by $10,070 million , to $31,179 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from $21,109 million in the year
ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to the impact of $9,845 million related to the acquisition of WestRock.
Excluding the impact of this acquisition, net sales increased by $225 million primarily resulting from a $487 million positive impact
due to a higher selling price mix and a $452 million net positive foreign currency impact, partially offset by a negative volume impact
of $716 million . See “Segment Information” below for more detail on Smurfit Westrock’s segment results.
Cost of Goods Sold
Cost of goods sold increased by $8,222 million , to $25,136 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from $16,914 million in the
year ended December 31, 2024 . The increase in cost of goods sold was primarily due to the impact of the acquisition of WestRock of
$8,240 million. Excluding the impact of this acquisition for the incremental period consolidated in the current year, cost of goods sold
decreased by $18 million. The decrease was primarily driven by the impact of lower volumes and the prior year $224 million
amortization of the fair value step up on inventory recognized on WestRock’s inventory acquired. These items were largely offset by
higher costs in the current year, including increased economic downtime, higher depreciation, depletion and amortization expense ,
higher energy costs, as well as a net negative foreign currency impact.
Selling, General and Administrative (“SG&A”) Expenses
SG&A expenses increased by $1,082 million , to $3,819 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from $2,737 million in the year
ended December 31, 2024 . The increase in SG&A expenses of $ 1,082 million was primarily due to additional SG&A expenses of
$1,126 million related to the acquisition of WestRock. Excluding the impact of this acquisition, SG&A decreased by $44 million
primarily due to lower share-based payment expense, partially offset by higher depreciation, depletion and amortization expense.
Impairment and Restructuring Costs
Impairment and restructuring costs increased by $329 million , to $385 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from $56 million
in the year ended December 31, 2024 . In the year ended December 31, 2025 , impairment and restructuring costs consisted of
$246 million of impairment charges and $139 million of restructuring costs. In the year ended December 31, 2024 , i mpairment and
restructuring costs consisted of $24 million of impairment charges and $32 million of restructuring costs. The increase in i mpairment
and restructuring costs was primarily due to our announced plan to permanently close our coated recycled paperboard mill in St. Paul,
Minnesota, U.S., discontinue production at our containerboard mill in Forney, Texas, U.S., and costs associated with two converting
facilities in Germany that ceased production in the fourth quarter of 2025. We stopped production at these two U.S. mills in June 2025
and May 2025, respectively.
See “Note 5. Impairment and Restructuring Costs ” of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Transaction and Integration-related Expenses Associated with the Combination
The Company incurred transaction and integration-related expenses associated with the Combination of $120 million and $395 million
in the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 , respectively. In the year ended December 31, 2025 , transaction and integration-
related expenses associated with the Combination consisted primarily of i ntegration-related expenses associated with the Combination
of $122 million . In the year ended December 31, 2024 , transaction and integration-related expenses consisted of t ransaction-related
expenses of $202 million and $193 million of integration-related expenses associated with the Combination .
Transaction-related costs associated with the Combination were comprised of banking and financing related costs as well as legal and
other professional services which were directly attributable to the Combination and retention payments that were contractually
committed to and associated with the successful completion of the Combination. We incur integration expenses post-acquisition that
reflect work performed to facilitate merger and acquisition integration and primarily consist of professional services and personnel and
related expenses, such as work associated with information systems.
Pension and Other Postretirement Non-Service Income (Expense), Net
Pension and other postretirement non-service income (expense), net increased by $54 million , to income of $30 million in the year
ended December 31, 2025 , from $24 million of expense in the year ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to a
$164 million increase in the expected return on assets primarily due to acquired defined benefit pension assets in connection with the
Combination and a decrease in net settlement loss of $17 million , partially offset by an increase in interest costs of $132 million
primarily due to acquired defined benefit pension liabilities in connection with the Combination .
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net increased by $331 million to $729 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from $398 million in the year
ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to the increased interest expense as a result of the acquisition of
WestRock.
See “Note 2. Acquisitions ” and “Note 15. Debt ” of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on debt assumed
and debt issued in connection with the Combination.
Other Expense, Net
Other expense, net increased by $36 million , to a net expense of $61 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from a net
expense of $25 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to a $15 million increase in the
expense recorded in connection with the sale of receivables under an accounts receivable monetization program acquired as a result of
the Combination and a $10 million net negative impact from foreign currency translation of monetary assets and liabilities.
Income Tax Expense
Income tax expense was $260 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , compared to $241 million in the year ended
December 31, 2024 . The effective tax rates for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 were 27.1% and 43.0% ,
respectively. See “Note 18. Income Taxes ” of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional income tax information.
On July 4, 2025, U.S. tax legislation was enacted that included a broad range of tax reform provisions affecting businesses, including
extending and modifying certain existing international and domestic provisions. The financial statement impacts were considered in
the third quarter, with no discrete period tax impacts arising from the change in tax law. Impacts from the legislation are either not
applicable or immaterial to the financial statements. Certain changes may impact current or future cash tax obligations, but are not
anticipated to impact the total tax expense.
SEGMENT INFORMATION
Smurfit Westrock has identified its operating segments based on how the CODM makes key operating decisions, allocates resources
and assesses performance of the Company’s business. These operating segments are as follows: (i) North America, which includes
operations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, (ii) Europe, MEA and APAC and (iii) LATAM, which includes operations in Central
America and the Caribbean, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. No operating segments have been aggregated for
disclosure purposes.
Segment results include items directly attributable to a segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis, but
exclude certain central costs such as corporate costs, including executive costs, and costs of Smurfit Westrock’s legal, company
secretarial, pension administration, tax, treasury and controlling functions and other administrative costs. Segment profitability is
measured based on Adjusted EBITDA, defined as income before income taxes , unallocated corporate costs , depreciation, depletion
and amortization , interest expense, net , pension and other postretirement non-service income (expense), net , share-based compensation
expense , other expense, net , impairment and restructuring costs , transaction and integration-related expenses associated with the
Combination , amortization of fair value step up on inventory and other specific items that management believes are not indicative of
the ongoing operating results of the business.
The following table contains selected financial information for Smurfit Westrock’s segments for the years ended December 31, 2025
and 2024 ($ in millions):
Years ended December 31,
Net sales (aggregate): (1)
North America
Europe, MEA and APAC
LATAM
Segment Adjusted EBITDA:
North America
Europe, MEA and APAC
LATAM
(1) Net sales before intersegment eliminations .
The year ended December 31, 2025 , compared to the year ended December 31, 2024
North America Segment
Net Sales
Net sales before intersegment eliminations for the North America segment increased by $8,485 million , to $18,577 million in the year
ended December 31, 2025 , from $10,092 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to the positive
impact of $8,877 million from the impact of the acquisition of WestRock. Excluding the impact of this acquisition, net sales before
intersegment eliminations decreased by $392 million primarily due to a $690 million impact of lower volumes, partially offset by a
$311 million impact from a higher sales price mix.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA for the North America segment increased by $1,388 million , to $2,998 million in the year ended December 31,
2025 , from $1,610 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to the positive impact of
$1,446 million from the impact of the acquisition of WestRock. Excluding the impact of this acquisition, Adjusted EBITDA decreased
by $58 million primarily due to higher costs of $244 million and lower volumes of $126 million , partially offset by a higher selling
price mix of $311 million . The higher costs of $244 million were mainly due to the impact of increased e conomic downtim e along
with higher energy costs.
Europe, MEA and APAC Segment
Net Sales
Net sales before intersegment eliminations for the Europe, MEA and APAC segment increased by $1,316 million , to $10,893 million
in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from $9,577 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to
the impact of $808 million which related to the impact of the acquisition of WestRock. Excluding the impact of this acquisition, net
sales before intersegment eliminations increased by $508 million primarily due to a net positive foreign currency impact of
$462 million primarily due to the strengthening of the euro against the U.S. dollar, a higher selling price mix of $102 million , partially
offset by a negative volume impact of $56 million .
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA for the Europe, MEA and APAC segment increased by $89 million , to $1,618 million in the year ended
December 31, 2025 , from $1,529 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . There was an $84 million positive impact from the
acquisition of WestRock. Excluding the impact of this acquisition, Adjusted EBITDA increased by $5 million primarily due to a
higher selling price mix impact of $102 million and net positive foreign currency impact of $63 million, which were partially offset by
higher costs of $150 million, mainly driven by higher energy and labor costs.
LATAM Segment
Net Sales
Net sales before intersegment eliminations for the LATAM segment increased by $402 million , to $2,113 million in the year ended
December 31, 2025 , from $1,711 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to the positive impact
of $375 million from the acquisition of WestRock. Excluding this acquisition, net sales before intersegment eliminations increased by
$27 million primarily due to a higher selling price mix of $71 million, partially offset by a negative volume impact of $35 million.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA for the LATAM segment increased by $107 million , to $485 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 , from
$378 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 . This increase was primarily due to the positive impact of $117 million from the
acquisition of WestRock. Excluding this acquisition, Adjusted EBITDA decreased by $10 million primarily due to higher costs of
$86 million , partly offset by a higher selling price mix of $71 million .
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Sources and Uses of Cash
Smurfit Westrock’s primary sources of liquidity are the cash flows generated from its operations, its commercial paper program, and
committed credit lines. The uncommitted commercial paper program is supported by the $4,500 million revolving loan facility with a
separate swingline sub-facility which allows for same-day drawing in U.S. dollar. The revolving credit facility had an original term of
five years, with two one-year extension options. In June 2025, the first extension was exercised, extending the maturity date to June
28, 2030. The amount of commercial paper outstanding does not reduce available capacity under the revolving loan facility. The
primary uses of this liquidity are to fund Smurfit Westrock’s day-to-day operations, capital expenditures, debt service, dividends and
other investment activity, including acquisitions .
As of December 31, 2025 , Smurfit Westrock held cash and cash equivalents of $892 million , of which $273 million were held in euro,
$328 million were held in U.S. dollars and $291 million were held in other currencies . At December 31, 2025 , the Company had
$ 4,560 million in undrawn committed facilities available under the revolving loan facility and receivables securitization facilities. The
weighted average period until maturity of undrawn committed facilities was 4.5 years as of December 31, 2025 . Combined with cash
and cash equivalents of $892 million , the Company had $ 5,452 million of available liquidity.
On November 20, 2025 we redeemed the outstanding $292 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.500% senior debentures due
2025 in full at par. We funded this redemption using existing liquidity. No gain or loss on extinguishment of debt was recorded.
On November 21, 2025, Smurfit Westrock Financing Designated Activity Company (“SWF”), a designated activity company
incorporated under the laws of Ireland and a wholly-owned direct subsidiary of Smurfit Westrock plc (“Smurfit Westrock”), issued
$8 00 million aggregate principal amount of its 5.185% senior green notes due 2036 (the “USD Notes”), with interest payable semi-
annually in arrears, beginning on July 15, 2026. On November 24, 2025, Smurfit Kappa Treasury Unlimited Company (“SKT” and,
together with SWF, the “Issuers”), a public unlimited company incorporated under the laws of Ireland and a wholly-owned indirect
subsidiary of Smurfit Westrock, issued € 500 million aggregate principal amount of its 3.489% senior green notes due 2031 (the “EUR
Notes” and, together with the USD Notes, the “November 2025 Notes”), with interest payable annually in arrears. These November
2025 Notes can be redeemed, at par in whole or in part, within three months to their maturity, in accordance with the respective
indentures. The November 2025 Notes have been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, pursuant to a
registration statement (the “Registration Statement”) on Form S-3ASR (No. 333-291446) filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission on November 12, 2025. The November 2025 Notes were sold pursuant to a base prospectus, dated November 12, 2025,
forming a part of the Registration Statement, and separate preliminary and final prospectus supplements with respect to the USD
Notes, dated November 17, 2025, and the EUR Notes, dated November 18, 2025.
We used the net proceeds from the offerings of the November 2025 Notes (i) to redeem the outstanding €750 million in aggregate
principal amount of 1.500% senior notes due 2027 issued by SKT (the “SKT 2027 Notes”) in full at the applicable redemption price
set forth in the indenture governing the SKT 2027 Notes, (ii) to redeem the outstanding $500 million in aggregate principal amount of
3.375% senior notes due 2027 issued by WRKCo Inc. (the “WRKCo 2027 Notes”) in full at the applicable redemption price set forth
in the indenture governing the WRKCo 2027 Notes, and (iii) f or general corporate purposes, including the repayment of other
indebted ness. We also used an amount equivalent to the proceeds of the November 2025 Notes to finance or refinance a portfolio of
eligible green projects in accordance with our Green Finance Framework, which we may, in the future, update in line with
developments in the market.
On November 18, 2025, WRKCo Inc. distributed a conditional notice of redemption to the holders of the WRKCo 2027 Notes. The
WRKCo 2027 Notes were redeemed on December 4, 2025. On November 19, 2025, SKT distributed a conditional notice of
redemption to the holders of the SKT 2027 Notes. The SKT 2027 Notes were redeemed on December 2, 2025. We recorded a
$16 million loss on extinguishment of debt in connection with these redemptions.
As of December 31, 2025 , Smurfit Westrock had $13,773 million of total debt. As of December 31, 2025 , the carrying amount of
current debt was $346 million . In the twelve months ended December 31, 2025 , total debt increased by $178 million . Excluding
changes in carrying value, such as translation adjustments and amortization moves , borrowings decreased by $304 million . The
carrying amount of the Company’s debt includes a fair value adjustment related to debt assumed through mergers and acquisitions.
Included within the carrying value of Smurfit Westrock’s borrowings as of December 31, 2025 are unamortized fair value
adjustments, bond discounts and debt issuance costs of $94 million , including an unamortized fair value market adjustment of
$22 million , all of which will be recognized in interest expense in Smurfit Westrock’s Consolidated Statements of Operations using
the effective interest rate method over the remaining life of the borrowings. See “Note 2. Acquisitions ” and “Note 15. Debt ” of the
Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of debt assumed and debt issued in connection with the Combination, as well as
additional debt-related information, including bond issuances and repayments.
The Company believes that the cash flows generated from its operations, cash on hand, its commercial paper program, available
borrowings under its committed credit lines and available capital through access to capital markets will be adequate to meet the
Company's liquidity and capital requirements, including payments of any declared dividends, for the next 12 months and for the
foreseeable future.
Smurfit Westrock uses a variety of working capital management strategies including supply chain financing (“SCF”) programs,
vendor financing and commercial card programs, monetization facilities where we sell short-term receivables to a group of third-party
financial institutions and receivables securitization facilities. The programs are described below.
The Company engages in certain customer-based SCF programs to accelerate the receipt of payment for outstanding accounts
receivables from certain customers. Certain costs of these programs are borne by the customer or the Company. Receivables
transferred under these customer-based SCF programs generally meet the requirements to be accounted for as sales in accordance with
guidance under Accounting Standards Codification (“ ASC”) 860, “Transfers and Servicing” (“ASC 860”), resulting in derecognition
of such receivables from the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Receivables involved with these customer-based SCF programs
may vary from period to period, and were 6% of the Company’s accounts receivable balance at December 31, 2025 . In addition,
Smurfit Westrock has monetization facilities that sell to third-party financial institutions all of the short-term receivables generated
from certain customer trade accounts. See “Note 14. Fair Value Measurement ” of the Consolidated Financial Statements for a
discussion of the Company’s monetization facilities.
Smurfit Westrock’s working capital management strategy includes working with its suppliers to revisit terms and conditions, including
the extension of payment terms. The Company’s current payment terms with the majority of its suppliers generally range from payable
upon receipt to 120 days and vary for items such as the availability of cash discounts. The Company does not believe its payment
terms will be shortened significantly in the near future, and does not expect its net cash provided by operating activities to be
significantly impacted by additional extensions of payment terms. Certain financial institutions offer voluntary SCF programs that
enable the Company’s suppliers, at their sole discretion, to sell their receivables from Smurfit Westrock to the financial institutions on
a non-recourse basis at a rate that leverages the Company’s credit rating and thus might be more beneficial to the Company’s
suppliers. Smurfit Westrock and its suppliers agree on commercial terms for the goods and services procured, including prices,
quantities and payment terms, regardless of whether the supplier elects to participate in SCF programs. The suppliers sell Smurfit
Westrock goods or services and issue the associated invoices based on the agreed-upon contractual terms. The due dates of the
invoices are not extended due to the supplier’s participation in SCF programs. Smurfit Westrock suppliers, at their sole discretion if
they choose to participate in a SCF program, determine which invoices, if any, they want to sell to the financial institutions. No
guarantees are provided by the Company under SCF programs, and it has no economic interest in a supplier’s decision to participate in
the SCF program. Therefore, amounts due to the Company’s suppliers that elect to participate in SCF programs are included in the
“Accounts payable” line item in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets and the activity is reflected in “Net cash provided by
operating activities” in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Based on correspondence with the financial
institutions that are involved with Smurfit Westrock’s two primary SCF programs, while the amount suppliers elect to sell to the
financial institutions varies from period to period, the amount generally averages 10% - 14% of the Company’s accounts payable
balance. The outstanding payment obligations to financial institutions under these programs were $361 million as of December 31,
Smurfit Westrock also participates in certain vendor financing and commercial card programs to support travel and entertainment
expenses and smaller vendor purchases. Amounts outstanding under these programs are classified as debt primarily because the
Company receives the benefit of extended payment terms and a rebate from the financial institution that would not have otherwise
been received without the financial institution's involvement. Smurfit Westrock also has receivables securitization facilities that allows
for borrowing availability based on underlying accounts receivable eligibility and compliance with certain covenants. See “Note 15.
Debt ” and “Note 22. Variable Interest Entities ” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of the receivables
securitization facilities and the amount outstanding under the Company’s vendor financing and commercial card programs.
Smurfit Westrock is a party to enforceable and legally binding contractual obligations involving commitments to make payments to
third parties. These obligations impact Smurfit Westrock’s short-term and long-term liquidity and capital resource needs. Certain
contractual obligations are reflected on Smurfit Westrock’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2025 , while others are
considered future obligations. Smurfit Westrock’s contractual obligations primarily consist of items such as long-term debt, including
current portion, lease obligations, purchase obligations and other obligations. See “Contractual Obligations and Commitments” for
more information.
Cash Flow Activity
The following table contains selected financial information from Smurfit Westrock’s Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the
years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 ($ in millions):
Years ended December 31,
($ in millions)
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net cash used for investing activities
Net cash (used for) provided by financing activities
Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $1,909 million , or 129% , to $3,392 million in the year ended December 31,
2025 from $1,483 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 , primarily due to a $1,489 million increase in net income adjusted for
non-cash items, primarily including depreciation, depletion and amortization , impairment charges, cash surrender value increase in
excess of premiums paid , share-based compensation expense , deferred income tax benefit , and pension and other postretirement
funding more than cost . The increase in net cash provided by operating activities also included a $420 million decrease in the cash
outflows from changes in operating assets and liabilities. The decrease in the cash outflows from changes in operating assets and
liabilities was inclusive of cash payments to financial institutions of $66 million in connection with the Company’s accounts
receivable monetization agreements in the year ended December 31, 2025 , compared to cash proceeds of $62 million in the prior year
period. See “Note 14. Fair Value Measurement ” of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Net cash used for investing activities of $2,143 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 consisted primarily of capital
expenditures of $2,192 million partially offset by proceeds from corporate owned life insurance and other items . Net cash used for
investing activities of $2,114 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 consisted primarily of capital expenditures of
$1,466 million and cash paid for purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired of $719 million , partially offset by proceeds from sale of
property, plant and equipment of $61 million .
Net cash used for financing activities of $1,298 million in the year ended December 31, 2025 consisted primarily of cash outflows
from cash dividends paid to shareholders of $900 million , a net decrease in debt of $304 million , tax paid in connection with shares
withheld from employees of $69 million and debt issuance costs of $20 million . Net cash provided by financing activities of
$607 million in the year ended December 31, 2024 consisted primarily of cash inflows from a net increase in debt of $1,367 million ,
partially offset by cash outflows from cash dividends paid to shareholders of $650 million , debt issuance costs of $63 million ,
purchases of treasury stock of $27 million , and tax paid in connection with shares withheld from employees of $26 million .
Contractual Obligations and Commitments
Smurfit Westrock is a party to enforceable and legally binding contractual obligations involving commitments to make payments to
third parties. These obligations impact Smurfit Westrock’s short-term and long-term liquidity and capital resource needs. Certain
contractual obligations are reflected on Smurfit Westrock’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2025 , while others are
considered future obligations. Smurfit Westrock’s primary cash requirements from contractual obligations and commitments include:
• Debt obligations. See “Note 15. Debt ,” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on Smurfit Westrock’s debt obligations and timing of expected future
payments.
• Operating and finance leases. See “Note 13. Leases ,” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included
elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on Smurfit Westrock’s operating and finance lease
obligations and timing of expected future payments.
• Pension liabilities. See “Note 19. Retirement Plans and Deferred Compensation Arrangements ,” of the Notes to the
Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on Smurfit
Westrock’s pension liabilities and the timing of expected future benefit payments under its defined benefit pension p lans.
• Capital commitments. See “Note 21. Commitments and Contingencies ,” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial
Statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on Smurfit Westrock’s future
spending for property, plant and equipment that Smurfit Westrock is obligated to purchase.
• Purchase commitments. See “Note 21. Commitments and Contingencies ,” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial
Statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on Smurfit Westrock’s purchase
commitments and the timing of the expected future payments.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
As of December 31, 2025 , Smurfit Westrock did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.
NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURE
Definitions
Non-GAAP Financial Measure
Smurfit Westrock reports its financial results in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. (“GAAP”).
However, management believes “Adjusted EBITDA”, a non-GAAP financial measure as discussed below, provides Smurfit
Westrock’s Board of Directors, investors, potential investors, securities analysts and others with additional meaningful financial
information that should be considered when assessing its ongoing performance relative to other periods because it adjusts out non-
recurring items that management believes are not indicative of the ongoing results of the business. Smurfit Westrock management also
uses this non-GAAP financial measure in making financial, operating and planning decisions, and in evaluating company
performance. Non-GAAP financial measures are not intended to be considered in isolation of or as a substitute for, or superior to,
financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP and should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative
for, the GAAP results. The non-GAAP financial measure Smurfit Westrock presents may differ from similarly captioned measures
presented by other companies.
Adjusted EBITDA
Smurfit Westrock uses the non-GAAP financial measure “Adjusted EBITDA” to evaluate its overall performance. The composition of
Adjusted EBITDA is not addressed or prescribed by GAAP. Smurfit Westrock defines Adjusted EBITDA as net income before
income tax expense , depreciation, depletion and amortization , interest expense, net , pension and other postretirement non-service
income (expense), net , share-based compensation expense , other expense, net , impairment and restructuring costs , transaction and
integration-related expenses associated with the Combination , amortization of fair value step up on inventory and other specific items
that management believes are not indicative of the ongoing operating results of the business.
Management believes that the most directly comparable GAAP measure to Adjusted EBITDA is “Net income”.
Set forth below is a reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measure Adjusted EBITDA to Net income, the most directly comparable
GAAP measure, for the periods indicated ($ in millions).
Years ended December 31,
Net income
Income tax expense
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
Impairment and restructuring costs
Transaction and integration-related expenses associated with the Combination
Amortization of fair value step up on inventory
Interest expense, net
Pension and other postretirement non-service (income) expense, net
Share-based compensation expense
Other expense, net
Other adjustments
Adjusted EBITDA
See “Note 3. Segment Information ” of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding “Other
adjustments” in the table above.
GUARANTOR SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
On April 3, 2024, SKT completed a private offering of $750 million aggregate principal amount of 5.200% senior green notes due
2030, $1,000 million aggregate principal amount of 5.438% senior green notes due 2034 and $1,000 million aggregate principal
amount of 5.777% senior green notes due 2054, which we refer to as the “Original SKT Notes”, and on November 26, 2024, SWF
completed a private offering of $850 million aggregate principal amount of 5.418% senior green notes due 2035, which we refer to as
the “Original SWF Notes” (and, together with the Original SKT Notes, the “Original Notes”). As part of those offerings, the Issuers
and the Guarantors (as hereinafter defined) of the Original Notes entered into registration rights agreements with the initial purchasers
thereof in which we agreed to use commercially reasonable efforts to complete exchange offers for such Original Notes in compliance
with applicable securities laws. In connection with the registration rights agreements, on May 23, 2025, following an exchange offer
process, certain holders of the Original Notes, exchanged their notes for newly issued registered notes (the “New Notes”). The New
Notes are substantially identical to the Original Notes, except that the New Notes are registered under the United States Securities Act
of 1933, as amended, and will not have any transfer restrictions, registration rights or additional interest provisions.
As outlined above in the section entitled “Liquidity and Capital Resources”, on November 21, 2025, SWF issued $8 00 million
aggregate principal amount of 5.185% senior green notes due 2036, and on November 24, 2025 SKT issued € 500 million aggregate
principal amount of 3.489% senior green notes due 2031. These notes have been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as
amended.
The Guarantees
The Original Notes, the New Notes and t he November 2025 Notes are subject to any limitations under applicable law, fully and
unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis by each of Smurfit Westrock plc and the following
wholly-owned subsidiaries of Smurfit Westrock plc (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”): Smurfit Kappa Group Limited, Smurfit Kappa
Investments Limited, Smurfit Kappa Acquisitions Unlimited Company, Smurfit Kappa Treasury Funding Designated Activity
Company, Smurfit International B.V., Smurfit WestRock US Holdings Corporation, WestRock Company, WRKCo Inc., WestRock
MWV, LLC and WestRock RKT, LLC. In addition, SWF fully and unconditionally guarantees SKT’s obligations under the Original
Notes, the New Notes and t he November 2025 Notes , and SKT fully and unconditionally guarantees SWF’s obligations under the
Original Notes, the New Notes and the November 2025 Notes . SKT and SWF are both wholly-owned subsidiaries of Smurfit
Westrock plc. Smurfit Westrock plc and the Subsidiary Guarantors are collectively referred to herein as the “Guarantors”, and the
Issuers and the Guarantors are collectively referred to herein as the “Obligor Group”.
Operations are conducted almost entirely through Smurfit Westrock plc’s subsidiaries other than the Issuers and the Subsidiary
Guarantors. Accordingly, the Obligor Group’s cash flow and ability to service its debt are dependent upon the earnings of Smurfit
Westrock plc’s other non-obligor subsidiaries (the “Non-Obligor Subsidiaries”) and the distribution of those earnings to the Obligor
Group, whether by dividends, loans or otherwise. Holders of the New Notes and November 2025 Notes have a direct claim only
against the Obligor Group.
Basis of Preparation of the Summarized Financial Information
The tables below present summarized financial information provided in conformity with Rule 13-01 of the SEC’s Regulation S-X. The
summarized financial information of the Obligor Group is presented on a combined basis, excluding intercompany balances and
transactions between entities in the Obligor Group. The Obligor Group’s investment balances in Non-Obligor Subsidiaries have been
excluded. The Obligor Group’s amounts due from, amounts due to, and transactions with Non-Obligor Subsidiaries have been
presented separately. The summarized financial information below should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Consolidated
Financial Statements contained herein, as the summarized financial information may not necessarily be indicative of the results of
operations or financial position had the subsidiaries operated as independent entities ($ in millions).
SUMMARIZED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
Year ended
December 31,
Net sales to unrelated parties
Net sales to Non-Obligor Subsidiaries
Gross profit
Interest expense, net with unrelated parties
Interest expense, net with Non-Obligor Subsidiaries
Net income and net income attributable to the Obligor Group
SUMMARIZED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
December 31,
ASSETS
Current amounts due from Non-Obligor Subsidiaries
Other current assets
Total current assets
Non-current amounts due from Non-Obligor Subsidiaries
Other non-current assets
Total non-current assets
LIABILITIES
Current amounts due to Non-Obligor Subsidiaries
Other current liabilities
Total current liabilities
Non-current amounts due to Non-Obligor Subsidiaries
Other non-current liabilities
Total non-current liabilities
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Smurfit Westrock has prepared the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP, which requires
management to make estimates that affect the amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities reported. Significant accounting
policies are described in “Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies ” in the accompanying
Consolidated Financial Statements.
These critical accounting policies are both important to the portrayal of Smurfit Westrock’s financial condition and results of
operations and require some of management’s most subjective and complex judgments. The accounting for these matters involves the
making of estimates based on current facts, circumstances and assumptions that, in management’s judgment, could change in a manner
that would materially affect management’s future estimates with respect to such matters and, accordingly, could cause Smurfit
Westrock’s future reported financial condition and results of operations to differ materially from those that it is currently reporting
based on management’s current estimates.
Smurfit Westrock believes the following are critical accounting policies and estimates used in the preparation of its Consolidated
Financial Statements:
Business Combinations
From time to time, Smurfit Westrock may enter into business combinations, such as the Combination with WestRock which closed on
July 5, 2024. As described further in “Note 2. Acquisitions ” to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Smurfit Westrock allocated the
$13,461 million aggregate merger consideration to the fair values of WestRock assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the
Closing Date. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired was allocated to goodwill.
The purchase price allocation for the Merger was revised as additional information about the acquisition-date fair value of assets and
liabilities became available during the measurement period (a period not to exceed 12 months from the Closing Date). The purchase
price allocation was completed during the third quarter of fiscal 2025 after the Company completed the evaluation of the fair value of
acquired property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and certain income tax related items in addition to ensuring all other assets
and liabilities and contingencies had been identified and recorded. The acquisition method of accounting required significant estimates
and assumptions regarding the fair values of the elements of a business combination. The most significant assumptions related to the
fair value estimates of plant and machinery assets acquired as part of property, plant and equipment. The company prepared estimates
and engaged third-party valuation specialists to assist in the valuation of plant and machinery assets, which required significant
judgments and assumptions inherent in the estimates regarding items such as deriving the effective age, economic lives, residual
values and other factors, including estimating future cash flows that Smurfit Westrock expects to generate from the acquired assets.
If the subsequent actual results and updated projections of the underlying business activity change compared with the assumptions and
projections used to develop these values, we could record future impairment charges. In addition, we have estimated the economic
lives of certain acquired assets, and these lives are used to calculate depreciation and amortization expense. If the Company’s
estimates of the economic lives change, depreciation or amortization expenses could be increased or decreased, or the acquired asset
could be impaired.
See “Note 1.13. Business Combinations ” and “Note 2. Acquisitions ” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for Smurfit Westrock’s
accounting policy on business combinations and more information on the Combination with WestRock.
Goodwill Impairment
Smurfit Westrock reviews the carrying value of its goodwill annually during the fourth quarter, or more often if events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may exceed fair value as set forth in ASC 350, “Intangibles — Goodwill and Other”
(“ASC 350”). Smurfit Westrock tests goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level. During the third quarter of 2024, following
the completion of the Combination, the Company changed its reportable segments and reassessed its reporting units. As a result of this
reassessment, the Company identified the following reporting units: (1) North America, which includes operations in the U.S. and
Canada, (2) Europe, MEA and APAC, (3) Mexico, (4) Argentina and Chile, (5) Colombia & Central Cluster, and (6) Brazil. See “Note
1.12. Goodwill and Non-current Assets ” and “Note 10. Goodwill ” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for Smurfit Westrock’s
accounting policy on goodwill and more information on reporting units .
During the fourth quarter of the year ended December 31, 2025 , Smurfit Westrock completed its annual goodwill impairment testing
for each of the Company’s reporting units by performing a qualitative assessment. Multiple factors were evaluated to assess whether it
was more likely than not that the estimated fair value of any reporting unit was below its carrying value. These factors included, but
were not limited to, its expectations for macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, and financial performance,
including planned net sales and earnings of each reporting unit. The qualitative assessment also considered changes since the last
qualitative assessment of all the Company’s reporting units, which was performed in 2024 .
As a result of the qualitative assessment, Smurfit Westrock determined that it was more likely than not that the estimated fair value of
each reporting unit with goodwill exceeded its respective carrying value. Therefore, the Company determined that goodwill for each
reporting unit was not impaired and that a quantitative goodwill test was not required. See “Note 10. Goodwill ” to the Consolidated
Financial Statements for further information about the Company’s annual assessment of goodwill for impairment.
Although the Company believes all relevant factors were considered in the qualitative impairment analysis to reach the conclusion that
goodwill was not impaired, significant changes in any one of the assumptions, estimates and market factors underlying Smurfit
Westrock’s fair value determinations could produce a significantly different result potentially leading to the recording of an
impairment that could have significant impacts on the results of operations and financial position of the Company. Smurfit Westrock
has not made any material changes to its impairment loss assessment methodology during the past three fiscal years.
Accounting for Income Taxes
Smurfit Westrock’s income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits, reflect
management’s best assessment of estimated current and future taxes to be paid. Significant judgments and estimates are required in
determining the consolidated income tax expense. In evaluating its ability to recover deferred tax assets and establishing or reducing a
valuation allowance in the jurisdiction from which they arise, Smurfit Westrock considers all available positive and negative evidence,
including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and the
effect of enacted tax rates expected to apply in the periods in which the deferred tax assets or liabilities are anticipated to be settled or
realized. A high degree of judgment is required to assess the impact of possible future outcomes on Smurfit Westrock’s current and
deferred tax positions.
As a result of this evaluation, Smurfit Westrock recorded valuation allowances of $429 million as of December 31, 2025 and
$372 million as of December 31, 2024 , related to certain deferred tax assets, primarily tax loss carryforwards, where there is
uncertainty as to the ultimate realization of a benefit. Smurfit Westrock regularly reviews the recoverability of deferred tax assets for
adjustments to taxable income, changes in tax laws or interpretations thereof and tax rates, as all of these could impact its effective tax
rate.
Smurfit Westrock is subject to routine tax audits and examinations. It uses significant judgment in (i) determining whether a tax
position, based solely on its technical merits, is “more likely than not” to be sustained upon examination and (ii) measuring the tax
benefit as the largest amount of benefit that is “more likely than not” to be realized upon settlement. Smurfit Westrock does not record
any benefit for tax positions that do not meet the “more likely than not” recognition threshold at the balance sheet date. Resolutions of
current uncertain tax positions are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the effective tax rate or on cashflows. Smurfit
Westrock has a progressive dividend strategy which means that it will remit earnings from some of its overseas subsidiaries to the
parent company in Ireland. Its foreign earnings are generally taxed at rates that are higher than in Ireland and so no incremental tax
should arise there, due to the availability of foreign tax credits. However, some earnings may be subject to limited additional foreign
taxes upon repatriation. Smurfit Westrock continues to indefinitely reinvest its foreign earnings as part of its wider capital allocation
strategy. To the extent that it cannot assert indefinite reinvestment of earnings, it records a deferred tax liability on its foreign earnings
at the applicable tax rate if it is not otherwise possible to remit earnings without additional tax.
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024 , Smurfit Westrock recognized a deferred tax liability of $209 million and $179 million ,
respectively, on unremitted earnings, in respect of foreign income taxes or withholding taxes for expected or assumed repatriation,
respectively. As Smurfit Westrock can decide which subsidiaries should pay dividends, it does not expect that this deferred tax
liability will have a material impact on its cash flows in the foreseeable future.
The determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability related to indefinitely invested foreign earnings not subject to
additional outside basis difference taxes is not practicable. A 1% change in the effective tax rate would increase or decrease Smurfit
Westrock’s income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2025 by $10 million .
In 2021, political agreement was reached by the OECD Inclusive Framework on a two-pillar approach to international tax reform. This
includes the commitment to introduce a minimum effective tax rate of 15% for companies with revenue above €750 million (‘Pillar
Two’). The agreement has been enacted in most of the countries where Smurfit Westrock has business activities. The law was enacted
in Ireland with an effective date January 1, 2024, and it was broadly in line with the OECD Inclusive Framework. For the year ended
December 31, 2025 , a Pillar Two assessment was performed and its impact was not significant.
The Company has made accounting policy elections to account for the income tax effect(s) of U.S. Global Intangible Low-Taxed
Income (GILTI) as a period cost and to account for the income tax effect(s) of investment tax credits under the flow-through method.
Pension Obligations
The determination of pension obligations and pension expense requires various assumptions that can significantly affect liability and
expense amounts, such as the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, discount rates, projected future compensation increases
and mortality rates for each of Smurfit Westrock’s plans. These assumptions are determined annually in conjunction with Smurfit
Westrock’s actuary. The accounting for these matters involves the making of estimates based on current facts, circumstances and
assumptions that, in management’s judgment, could change in a manner that would materially affect management’s future estimates
with respect to such matters and, accordingly, could cause Smurfit Westrock’s future reported financial condition and results of
operations to differ materially from those that Smurfit Westrock is currently reporting based on management’s current estimates.
A 50-basis point change in the discount rate, compensation level and expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, factoring in our
corridor as appropriate, would have had the following effect on Smurfit Westrock’s pension expense for the year ended December 31,
2025 , (in millions):
Defined Benefit Pension Plans
50 Basis Point
Increase
50 Basis Point
Decrease
Discount rate
Compensation level
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
See “Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies ” of the Notes to t he Consolidated Financial
Statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements,
including the respective expected dates of adoption and expected effects on Smurfit Westrock ’s results of operations and financial
condition.
