US Pulp and Paper Industry Posts 4Q Results

Earnings for U.S. paper and forest companies fell 1.5% in the fourth quarter, compared to the year-ago quarter. The collective profit margin totaled 4.2%. It was the second consecutive quarter above 4% for the group of 21 publicly traded companies. Fourth quarter sales for the group increased 1.0%, driven by higher prices and increased volumes for most pulp and paper products.