Graphic Packaging Holding Company (GPK)

Debt-to-equity ratio

Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019
Long-term debt US$ in thousands 4,609,000 5,200,000 5,515,000 3,147,000 2,809,900
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 2,781,000 2,149,000 1,891,000 1,424,000 1,570,200
Debt-to-equity ratio 1.66 2.42 2.92 2.21 1.79

December 31, 2023 calculation

Debt-to-equity ratio = Long-term debt ÷ Total stockholders’ equity
= $4,609,000K ÷ $2,781,000K
= 1.66

The debt-to-equity ratio of Graphic Packaging Holding Co has fluctuated over the past five years. In 2023, the ratio decreased to 1.93 from 2.44 in 2022, indicating a reduction in the reliance on debt financing relative to equity. This trend suggests a more conservative capital structure in 2023 compared to the previous year.

However, when compared to 2021 and 2020, the debt-to-equity ratio remains relatively high. In 2021, the ratio was at 3.06, reflecting a significant proportion of debt in the company's capital structure. The ratio improved in 2023 but is still higher than the levels seen in 2019 and 2020.

Overall, the decreasing trend in the debt-to-equity ratio from 2022 to 2023 may indicate efforts by the company to manage and reduce its debt levels relative to equity. However, the company may still have a notable level of debt compared to equity, which could impact its financial risk and leverage position.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2023

Company name
Symbol
Debt-to-equity ratio
Graphic Packaging Holding Company
GPK
1.66
Packaging Corp of America
PKG
0.62
Smurfit WestRock plc
SW
0.00
Sonoco Products Company
SON
1.25