BALL

Ball Corporation (BALL), a metal packaging company, has demonstrated a consistent pattern of beating earnings estimates, surpassing consensus by an average of 7.31% over the last two quarters. With a positive Earnings ESP of +1.58% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) rating, analysts suggest the company is well-positioned for another earnings beat in its next quarterly report expected on November 3, 2026.

Zacks presents its investment research tools including Thematic Investment Screens and Style Scores system designed to help investors identify stocks with higher probability of outperformance. The Zacks Rank system has historically delivered +23.86% average annual returns since 1988, more than double the S&P 500. Ball Corporation is highlighted as a stock to watch with a #3 Hold rating and strong Value and VGM Style Scores.

Packaging Corporation of America (PKG) reported Q3 2026 adjusted EPS of $3.04, beating consensus estimates and guidance, driven by favorable pricing in the Packaging segment and contributions from the Greif acquisition. Net sales rose 12.5% year-over-year to $2.6B with gross margin expansion to 23.2%.

However, the company faces headwinds from higher labor, operating, and freight costs. Q4 guidance of $2.81 EPS reflects anticipated maintenance expenses and seasonal pressures.

Packaging Corporation of America (PKG) is projected to report Q3 2026 revenues of $2.56 billion, up 10.8% year-over-year, with earnings estimated at $2.95 per share. The company benefits from its September 2025 acquisition of Greif's containerboard business, strong packaging demand, and price increases, though higher freight and recycled fiber costs may pressure margins. The Zacks model predicts an earnings beat based on positive Earnings ESP (+0.71%) and Rank #3 rating.