Koppers (KOP)


Market Price (9/17/2026): $46.92 | Market Cap: $897.5 MilSector: Materials | Industry: Commodity Chemicals

Koppers (KOP)


Market Price (9/17/2026): $46.92
Market Cap: $897.5 Mil
Sector: Materials
Industry: Commodity Chemicals

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 10%

Attractive yield
FCF Yield is 16%

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 35%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Advanced Materials, Sustainable Infrastructure, and Water Infrastructure. Themes include Specialty Chemicals for Performance, Show more.

Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -3.4%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -41%

Debt is significant
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is 108%

Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg LTMRevenue Change % Last Twelve Months (LTM) is -5.0%, Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -3.5%

Yield minus risk free rate is negative
ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is -13%

Key risks
KOP key risks include [1] its heavy debt load and [2] losing margin and market share in its key Performance Chemicals segment due to intensifying competition.

0 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 10%
1 Attractive yield
FCF Yield is 16%
2 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 35%
3 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Advanced Materials, Sustainable Infrastructure, and Water Infrastructure. Themes include Specialty Chemicals for Performance, Show more.
4 Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -3.4%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -41%
5 Debt is significant
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is 108%
6 Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg LTMRevenue Change % Last Twelve Months (LTM) is -5.0%, Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -3.5%
7 Yield minus risk free rate is negative
ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is -13%
8 Key risks
KOP key risks include [1] its heavy debt load and [2] losing margin and market share in its key Performance Chemicals segment due to intensifying competition.

KOP in ETFs

Weight = KOP's share of each fund

VTI0.00%
ITOT0.00%
IWM0.03%
IJR0.05%
AVUV0.12%
VIOV0.10%
SLYV0.10%
IJS0.10%
+8 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 9/1/2026

Koppers (KOP) stock has gained about 15% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Koppers exceeded analyst expectations for fiscal Q2 2026 earnings and revenue, reporting adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.37 against an estimated $1.12, and revenue of $520.1 million compared to analyst estimates of $506.10 million.

2. The company accelerated the closure of its Stickney, Illinois distillation operations to September 30, 2026, earlier than initially planned, a move projected to generate annual adjusted EBITDA benefits of $15 million to $20 million and an annual adjusted EPS improvement of $1 to $1.20. This strategic restructuring is part of the broader Catalyst transformation program, which has already delivered $33 million in year-over-year benefits through the first half of fiscal 2026 (ended June 30, 2026), with total benefits now targeted at over $90 million.

Show more
Updated on 9/1/2026

Koppers (KOP) stock has gained about 15% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Koppers exceeded analyst expectations for fiscal Q2 2026 earnings and revenue, reporting adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.37 against an estimated $1.12, and revenue of $520.1 million compared to analyst estimates of $506.10 million.

2. The company accelerated the closure of its Stickney, Illinois distillation operations to September 30, 2026, earlier than initially planned, a move projected to generate annual adjusted EBITDA benefits of $15 million to $20 million and an annual adjusted EPS improvement of $1 to $1.20. This strategic restructuring is part of the broader Catalyst transformation program, which has already delivered $33 million in year-over-year benefits through the first half of fiscal 2026 (ended June 30, 2026), with total benefits now targeted at over $90 million.

3. Koppers demonstrated a commitment to shareholder returns and strong cash flow, achieving a record $96 million in operating cash flow and $73 million in free cash flow during the first half of fiscal 2026. The company further enhanced shareholder value by increasing its quarterly cash dividend by 12.5% to $0.09 per share and repurchasing $43.9 million in shares during the first half of fiscal 2026.

4. Analyst sentiment remained largely positive, with a consensus "Moderate Buy" rating, and average one-year price targets were raised to $59.16 as of August 27, 2026, representing a 12.08% increase from previous estimates and indicating significant potential upside.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 14.7% change in KOP stock from 5/31/2026 to 9/16/2026 was primarily driven by a 11.3% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)53120269162026Change
Stock Price ($)40.7246.7214.7%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)1,8781,8930.8%
P/S Multiple0.40.511.3%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)20192.2%
Cumulative Contribution14.7%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

5/31/2026 to 9/16/2026
ReturnCorrelation
KOP14.7% 
Market (SPY)-0.3%33.0%
Sector (XLB)-1.5%26.7%

Fundamental Drivers

The 24.4% change in KOP stock from 2/28/2026 to 9/16/2026 was primarily driven by a 20.9% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)22820269162026Change
Stock Price ($)37.5646.7224.4%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)1,8791,8930.8%
P/S Multiple0.40.520.9%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)20192.1%
Cumulative Contribution24.4%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

2/28/2026 to 9/16/2026
ReturnCorrelation
KOP24.4% 
Market (SPY)10.2%34.7%
Sector (XLB)-5.3%37.6%

Fundamental Drivers

The 62.7% change in KOP stock from 8/31/2025 to 9/16/2026 was primarily driven by a 64.7% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)83120259162026Change
Stock Price ($)28.7146.7262.7%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)1,9931,893-5.0%
P/S Multiple0.30.564.7%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)20193.9%
Cumulative Contribution62.7%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2025 to 9/16/2026
ReturnCorrelation
KOP62.7% 
Market (SPY)17.9%32.3%
Sector (XLB)10.7%39.3%

Fundamental Drivers

The 25.1% change in KOP stock from 8/31/2023 to 9/16/2026 was primarily driven by a 27.9% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)83120239162026Change
Stock Price ($)37.3446.7225.1%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)2,1091,893-10.2%
P/S Multiple0.40.527.9%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)21199.0%
Cumulative Contribution25.1%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2023 to 9/16/2026
ReturnCorrelation
KOP25.1% 
Market (SPY)73.4%39.4%
Sector (XLB)28.2%47.2%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
KOP Return0%-9%83%-36%-16%70%53%
Peers Return30%7%-3%8%6%18%83%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%11%102%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
KOP Win Rate58%33%67%25%42%78% 
Peers Win Rate60%50%44%54%46%53% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%44% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
KOP Max Drawdown-25%-38%-24%-45%-27%-14% 
Peers Max Drawdown-22%-24%-38%-24%-35%-19% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: CBT, WFG, NGVT, VMI.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 9/16/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventKOPS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-23.5%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven30.7%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven37 days79 days
2023 SVB Regional Banking Crisis
  % Loss-14.9%-6.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven17.5%7.1%
  Time to Breakeven15 days31 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-36.1%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven56.4%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven108 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-70.8%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven242.1%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven245 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-49.1%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven96.5%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven308 days105 days
2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare
  % Loss-33.6%-12.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven50.6%13.9%
  Time to Breakeven58 days62 days

Compare to CBT, WFG, NGVT, VMI

In The Past

Koppers's stock fell -23.5% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 30.7% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventKOPS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-23.5%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven30.7%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven37 days79 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-36.1%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven56.4%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven108 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-70.8%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven242.1%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven245 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-49.1%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven96.5%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven308 days105 days
2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare
  % Loss-33.6%-12.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven50.6%13.9%
  Time to Breakeven58 days62 days
2014-2016 Oil Price Collapse
  % Loss-61.3%-6.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven158.2%7.3%
  Time to Breakeven300 days15 days
2011 US Debt Ceiling Crisis & European Contagion
  % Loss-35.7%-17.9%
  % Gain to Breakeven55.5%21.8%
  Time to Breakeven123 days123 days
2010 Eurozone Sovereign Debt Crisis / Flash Crash
  % Loss-26.3%-15.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven35.7%18.2%
  Time to Breakeven119 days125 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-77.3%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven341.1%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven676 days1085 days

Compare to CBT, WFG, NGVT, VMI

In The Past

Koppers's stock fell -23.5% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 30.7% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About Koppers (KOP)

Koppers (KOP) is a global industrial company that specializes in extending the lifespan of wood products and manufacturing various carbon-based industrial chemicals. Operating across the United States, Australasia, and Europe, the company's business is organized into three main segments: Railroad and Utility Products and Services (RUPS), Performance Chemicals (PC), and Carbon Materials and Chemicals (CMC).

The RUPS segment focuses on providing treated wood products crucial for infrastructure, such as crossties, switch ties, and bridge lumber for railroads, along with rail joint bars and comprehensive railroad bridge services. It also supplies treated transmission and distribution poles to electric and telephone utilities. The PC segment develops and manufactures a range of advanced wood preservatives, including copper-based formulas, used to protect wood for decking, fencing, utility poles, and general construction. This segment also provides fire-retardant chemicals for commercial building applications.

Koppers' CMC segment produces a variety of essential carbon compounds that serve as raw materials for heavy industries. Key products include creosote, used for wood treatment or as a feedstock for carbon black; carbon pitch, a vital component in aluminum and steel production; and naphthalene, which is a feedstock for phthalic anhydride and a concrete additive. This segment also supplies phthalic anhydride for plasticizers and paints, and carbon black feedstock. Koppers collectively serves a diverse customer base, including the railroad, utility, construction, agriculture, specialty chemical, aluminum, steel, and rubber industries.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Analogy 1: Koppers is like Vulcan Materials for the railroad and utility industries, specializing in treated wood products and services for infrastructure like railroad ties and utility poles.

Analogy 2: Koppers is like a specialized Eastman Chemical, focusing on wood preservation chemicals and essential carbon-based industrial materials for heavy industries like aluminum and steel.

AI Analysis | Feedback

  • Treated Wood Products: Provides treated timber products such as railroad crossties, utility poles, pilings, and lumber for various infrastructure applications.
  • Railroad Services: Offers engineering, design, repair, and inspection services specifically for railroad bridges and infrastructure.
  • Wood Preservation Chemicals: Develops and manufactures a range of copper-based and other chemicals used to preserve wood for decking, fencing, utility poles, and construction.
  • Fire-retardant Chemicals: Supplies chemicals designed to impart fire resistance to pressure-treated wood, primarily for commercial construction.
  • Creosote: Produces creosote, used for wood treatment and as a feedstock in carbon black manufacturing.
  • Carbon Pitch: Manufactures carbon pitch, an essential raw material for the production of aluminum and steel.
  • Naphthalene: Provides naphthalene, which serves as a feedstock for phthalic anhydride and a surfactant in concrete production.
  • Phthalic Anhydride: Produces phthalic anhydride for use in plasticizers, polyester resins, and alkyd paints.
  • Carbon Black Feedstock: Supplies specialized feedstock used in the production of carbon black.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Koppers (KOP) primarily sells its products and services to other companies (B2B). Based on the provided background information, specific customer company names are not listed; however, its major customers can be categorized by the industries they serve:

  • Railroad and Utility Companies: This category includes railroad operators, electric utilities, and telephone utilities, which purchase treated crossties, switch ties, rail joint bars, transmission and distribution poles, pilings, and utilize Koppers' railroad services.
  • Wood Product Manufacturers and Treatment Companies: These customers utilize Koppers' performance chemicals, such as copper-based wood preservatives and fire-retardant chemicals, for products like decking, fencing, construction lumber, timbers, and utility poles, as well as for various agricultural uses. They also consume creosote for wood treatment.
  • Heavy Industry and Chemical Manufacturers: This broad category encompasses aluminum and steel producers (who use carbon pitch), carbon black manufacturers (who use carbon black feedstock and creosote), concrete producers (who use naphthalene as a surfactant), and other chemical manufacturers that use naphthalene and phthalic anhydride for plasticizers, polyester resins, and alkyd paints.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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AI Analysis | Feedback

Leroy M. Ball
Chief Executive Officer

Leroy M. Ball joined Koppers in September 2010 as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He was elected Chief Operating Officer from May to December 2014 and then became President and Chief Executive Officer in January 2015. Prior to his tenure at Koppers, Mr. Ball spent 10 years with Calgon Carbon Corporation, an international chemical company, where he served as Controller and later as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He also held various finance positions with Carmeuse Lime Co./Dravo Corporation. Mr. Ball currently serves on the Boards of Directors for ATI Inc. and Highmark Inc.

Bradley Pearce
Interim Chief Financial Officer

Bradley Pearce was elected by Koppers' Board of Directors to serve as interim Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, effective January 5, 2026, following the retirement of Jimmi Sue Smith. Mr. Pearce joined Koppers in 2006 and has served as Chief Accounting Officer since May 2019, overseeing the company’s accounting, tax, and external reporting functions. Before joining Koppers, he held finance positions in both the private sector and public accounting.

Jimmi Sue Smith
Treasurer and Advisor (formerly Chief Financial Officer)

Jimmi Sue Smith retired from her position as Chief Financial Officer effective January 5, 2026. She will continue to serve as Treasurer and in an advisory role through February 28, 2026, to ensure a smooth transition. Ms. Smith served as CFO since January 2022, leading the company's global finance and accounting operations, budgeting, forecasting, tax, and investor relations, and advising on key strategic growth initiatives. She joined Koppers in 2019 as Vice President of Finance and Treasurer.

James A. Sullivan
President and Chief Transformation Officer

James A. Sullivan was appointed President and Chief Transformation Officer, effective June 1, 2025. In this newly created role, he leads the Koppers enterprise-wide transformation process known as "Catalyst," focusing on evaluating, scoping, quantifying, planning, and executing opportunities to maximize performance across the company. Prior to this, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer, effective January 1, 2024. Mr. Sullivan joined Koppers in June 2013 as Vice President of Business Development. He subsequently held roles as Senior Vice President, Global Carbon Materials and Chemicals (CMC), and later Senior Vice President, Railroad Products and Services and Global Carbon Materials and Chemicals. Before joining Koppers, he was Senior Vice President, Americas at Calgon Carbon Corporation, where he held various management positions in operations, marketing, sales, and research and development.

Leslie S. Hyde
Senior Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

Leslie S. Hyde serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at Koppers, a role she has held since January 2020. She is set to retire effective March 31, 2025. Over her 25-year career with Koppers, Ms. Hyde has held numerous key roles encompassing legal, environmental, risk management, safety and health, product stewardship, and strategic planning. She developed Koppers' environmental programs, implemented a global enterprise risk management system, and played a crucial role in achieving certifications for the ISO 14001 standard and the Responsible Care Management System. Ms. Hyde became the company's first Chief Sustainability Officer, developing a comprehensive sustainability program. Prior to Koppers, she held various manufacturing and consulting roles and served 10 years on active duty with the United States Army.

AI Analysis | Feedback

The key risks to Koppers (KOP) include:

  1. Regulatory and Environmental Risks Related to Wood Preservation Chemicals and Carbon Materials: Koppers' business heavily relies on chemicals for wood preservation (e.g., copper-based preservatives) and carbon materials like creosote. Many of these products, particularly creosote, are subject to stringent environmental and health regulations due to their chemical properties. The risk of new or stricter regulations, restrictions, or outright bans on the use of these chemicals, or increased costs associated with their production and disposal, could significantly impact Koppers' ability to manufacture and sell its key products across the Performance Chemicals (PC) and Carbon Materials and Chemicals (CMC) segments. This is comparable to a "patent cliff" for pharmaceutical companies, where regulatory changes rather than patent expiration could threaten the viability of core products.
  2. Sensitivity to Macroeconomic Conditions and Industrial Capital Spending: Koppers serves cyclical industries such as railroads, utilities, aluminum, steel, rubber, and construction. Demand for its products, including treated crossties, utility poles, carbon pitch, and naphthalene, is directly tied to the capital expenditure and maintenance budgets of these industries. Economic downturns, reduced infrastructure spending, or declines in industrial production can lead to decreased demand for Koppers' products and services, impacting revenue and profitability across its Railroad and Utility Products and Services (RUPS) and Carbon Materials and Chemicals (CMC) segments.
  3. Competition from Alternative Materials and Technologies: Koppers' traditional markets, particularly in the Railroad and Utility Products and Services (RUPS) segment, could face long-term challenges from alternative materials. For instance, the use of treated wood for railroad ties and utility poles could be impacted by the increasing adoption of concrete, steel, or composite materials. Similarly, evolving technologies and materials in industries served by the Performance Chemicals (PC) and Carbon Materials and Chemicals (CMC) segments could reduce the demand for Koppers' chemical solutions or carbon products over time.

AI Analysis | Feedback

The increasing adoption of alternative materials such as concrete, steel, and advanced composites for railroad ties, utility poles, and other construction applications threatens Koppers' core treated wood products and associated wood preservation chemicals.

The development and increasing implementation of "green" production technologies in the aluminum and steel industries, such as inert anode technology and hydrogen-based direct reduced iron (DRI), threaten the demand for Koppers' carbon pitch, a critical raw material in traditional primary metals production.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Koppers (KOP) operates in several addressable markets for its diverse range of products and services. The market sizes for its main offerings are as follows:

Railroad and Utility Products and Services (RUPS)

  • Treated Wood Products: The global treated wood market size was estimated at USD 5.86 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to USD 11.17 billion by 2033. Another estimate puts the global market at USD 6.21 billion in 2023, projected to reach USD 9.78 billion by 2032.
  • Railroad Ties (Crossties, Switch Ties): The global railroad tie market size was valued at USD 6.11 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 9.81 billion by 2034. In 2025, the global railroad tie market size was approximately USD 6.85 billion, with North America holding over 37% of the global revenue. The wood tie segment specifically accounted for about USD 3.03 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach approximately USD 4.37 billion by 2032.
  • Utility Poles: The global utility poles market size was valued at USD 37.17 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 56.72 billion by 2034. Another report estimated the market at USD 57.66 billion in 2023, projected to reach USD 75.88 billion by 2030. Asia Pacific dominated this market with a revenue share of 44.54% in 2023.
  • Railroad Services (including engineering, design, repair, and inspection services for railroad bridges): The global railcar services market size is projected to grow from USD 11.04 billion in 2024 to USD 14.34 billion by 2030. More broadly, the global railway system market size is valued at USD 38.34 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 49.75 billion by 2030. The global railroad market size, which includes services, was estimated at USD 314.84 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 436.35 billion by 2030.

Performance Chemicals (PC)

  • Wood Preservatives (Copper-based and general wood preservation chemicals): The global wood preservative market size was valued at USD 1.50 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2.1 billion by 2033. Another source valued the global market at USD 1.68 billion in 2024, poised to grow to USD 2.65 billion by 2033. Asia-Pacific held the largest revenue share in the global wood preservative market in 2023.
  • Fire-Retardant Chemicals for pressure treatment of wood (Fire-Retardant Treated Wood): The global fire-retardant treated wood market size is estimated at USD 1.67 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 2.06 billion by 2030. Another estimate places the market at approximately USD 1.36 billion in 2025, projected to reach USD 1.88 billion by 2032. North America is the largest market, holding approximately 45% of the global market share.

Carbon Materials and Chemicals (CMC)

  • Creosote: The global creosote oil market size was valued at USD 1.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 3.08 billion by 2033. North America held the largest creosote oil market share, accounting for 40% of the global market in 2024. The global coal tar creosote market size was USD 19.74 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to USD 30.04 billion by 2032.
  • Carbon Pitch (raw material used in the production of aluminum and steel): Null. A specific global addressable market size for "carbon pitch" as a standalone product was not readily available in the search results.
  • Naphthalene: The global naphthalene market size was estimated at USD 5.31 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 7.56 billion by 2033. Another report valued the global market at USD 2.4 billion in 2025, expected to grow to USD 3.7 billion by 2035. North America dominated the naphthalene market, accounting for approximately 45.6% of the global market value in 2025.
  • Phthalic Anhydride: The global phthalic anhydride market size was valued at USD 4.52 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 5.82 billion by 2030. Another source states the market was valued at USD 5.38 billion in 2025, projected to grow to USD 7.31 billion by 2034. Asia Pacific dominated the global market with a share of 61.4% in 2023.
  • Carbon Black Feedstock: The global carbon black feedstock market size was estimated at USD 7.4 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 9.97 billion by 2030. Another estimate puts the market size at USD 7.72 billion in 2024, projected to reach USD 9.97 billion by 2030. Asia Pacific dominated this market with a revenue share of 43% in 2023.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Koppers (KOP) is expected to experience future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years driven by several key factors:

  1. Growth in Performance Chemicals (PC) from market share gains and new commercial wins: Koppers anticipates its Performance Chemicals segment to achieve approximately 11% top-line growth in 2026. This expansion is projected to come from gaining market share and securing new commercial opportunities, particularly in industrial markets, even without an expected improvement in U.S. housing activity.
  2. Increased demand in Railroad and Utility Products and Services (RUPS) due to utility infrastructure investments: The RUPS segment is expected to benefit from robust demand within the utility sector, especially from "grid hardening" initiatives. This demand is projected to contribute an additional $30-45 million in sales for RUPS in 2026. Furthermore, a recent acquisition of a Douglas fir procurement business is anticipated to secure a critical supply for this segment.
  3. Benefits from the "Catalyst" transformation program: While primarily focused on operational efficiencies and cost reductions, Koppers' Catalyst program is designed to deliver transformational change that will counteract various market and cost headwinds. This program is expected to contribute $20-40 million in benefits in 2026 and up to $75 million cumulatively through 2028, indirectly supporting revenue growth by enhancing competitiveness and profitability, and contributing to meaningful EPS growth.
  4. Strategic acquisitions expanding market presence: The acquisition of Brown Wood Preserving Company in April 2024 for approximately $100 million significantly enhances Koppers' utility pole treatment business and broadens its market reach. This acquisition is expected to contribute an additional $15-25 million in EBITDA in 2025, with its full revenue impact continuing into the next few years.
  5. Strategic price increases: Koppers has demonstrated the ability to implement strategic price increases in certain segments, which have partially offset volume declines. In its Performance Chemicals segment, net sales price increases helped to mitigate a decrease in sales. Additionally, the RUPS segment is expected to benefit from price increases in 2026, indicating that strategic pricing will be a factor in revenue growth where market conditions permit.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Share Repurchases

  • Koppers repurchased $38.2 million in shares during 2025.
  • A new $100 million share repurchase program was approved in February 2025, succeeding a previous program from August 2021 that had approximately $11 million remaining.
  • As of February 26, 2026, $66.5 million remained authorized under the current share repurchase program.

Outbound Investments

  • Koppers allocated $20.7 million to acquisitions in 2025.
  • The company completed the sale of its railroad structures business in August 2025 as part of its Catalyst transformation process.
  • Koppers exited the phthalic anhydride business in 2025, which included closing its CMC phthalic anhydride plant in April 2025.

Capital Expenditures

  • Capital expenditures, net of insurance proceeds and sale of assets, were $47.6 million in 2025, down from $74.0 million in 2024.
  • Total capital expenditures for 2025 amounted to $55.0 million.
  • For 2026, Koppers forecasts capital expenditures of $55 million, with most allocated to maintenance.

Better Bets vs. Koppers (KOP)

Peer Outperformance in Commodity Chemicals

KOP has outperformed 91% of its 11 Commodity Chemicals peers over 5Y. Commodity Chemicals ranks 11th of 15 industries in Materials by median 5Y return. The sector’s gains have largely come from elsewhere.
Share of Commodity Chemicals constituents that KOP has outperformed, by holding period. Peers without a full price history over a given window are excluded from that window.
1Y
100%
of 11 industry peers · 64.7% return
3Y
64%
of 11 industry peers · 23.6% return
5Y
91%
of 11 industry peers · 64.5% return
No Commodity Chemicals peer with a comparable growth profile has beaten KOP by more than 20pp over 5Y.
Median price return by industry across the Materials sector, ranked by 5Y. Commodity Chemicals is KOP's own industry. Use this to see which corners of the sector have carried the returns.
Industry Names 1Y med3Y med5Y med Top 3 by 5Y
Copper 7 70.0%74.7%300.1% COPR 980% · HBM 348% · TGB 325%
Steel 13 17.4%32.6%167.7% HCC 339% · STLD 315% · NWPX 310%
Gold 34 23.0%186.2%150.9% IAG 736% · KGC 453% · OGC 417%
Silver 6 97.4%291.3%147.1% AYA 282% · HL 229% · SVM 177%
Aluminum 3 52.8%119.4%63.2% CENX 205% · KALU 63% · AA 0%
Construction Materials 7 -22.4%18.7%49.6% USLM 365% · CRH 82% · SMID 51%
Diversified Metals & Mining 23 -18.5%-8.3%12.5% ATLX 203471% · USAR 50571% · TII 686%
Metal, Glass & Plastic Containers 11 -7.7%3.0%5.9% KRT 213% · MYE 81% · GEF 55%
Paper & Plastic Packaging Products & Materials 7 6.1%5.8%-9.1% PKG 90% · CCK 12% · SON -3%
Specialty Chemicals 41 9.5%-6.1%-10.0% ODC 466% · NEU 205% · CMT 91%
Commodity Chemicals ← 12 14.4%-14.9%-25.3% HWKN 280% · KOP 64% · MEOH 55%
Diversified Chemicals 4 -5.3%-29.3%-28.2% CBT 75% · ASH -14% · CC -43%
Fertilizers & Agricultural Chemicals 10 -11.9%-8.0%-34.8% CF 199% · CTVA 105% · NTR 47%
Precious Metals & Minerals 8 31.5%157.1%-36.9% ASM 594% · PPTA 367% · MTA 32%
Paper Products 3 -22.7%-50.0%-96.0% CLW -37% · ITP -96% · MERC -96%
Median of constituents with a full price history over each window. Top names are unfiltered by size in this render.

Recent Active Movers

Peer Comparisons

Peers to compare with:

Financials

KOPCBTWFGNGVTVMIMedian
NameKoppers Cabot West Fra.Ingevity Valmont . 
Mkt Price46.7278.4672.7568.23475.3572.75
Mkt Cap0.94.05.72.49.24.0
Rev LTM1,8933,6345,2401,1604,2323,634
Op Inc LTM192493-782284586284
FCF LTM139281-479155322155
FCF 3Y Avg91343-33126377126
CFO LTM191497-92211475211
CFO 3Y Avg162591410198493410

Growth & Margins

KOPCBTWFGNGVTVMIMedian
NameKoppers Cabot West Fra.Ingevity Valmont . 
Rev Chg LTM-5.0%-4.7%-10.2%-1.4%3.8%-4.7%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg-3.5%-3.8%-8.9%-10.0%-0.7%-3.8%
Rev Chg Q3.0%6.4%-6.4%-5.2%6.5%3.0%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM0.8%1.7%-1.8%-1.5%1.6%0.8%
Op Inc Chg LTM2.4%-22.2%-1,084.8%0.6%16.4%0.6%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg3.4%-1.2%-211.9%-0.1%7.7%-0.1%
Op Mgn LTM10.1%13.6%-14.9%24.5%13.9%13.6%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg9.4%15.2%-3.6%22.8%12.8%12.8%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM-0.4%-2.2%-0.9%1.8%0.7%-0.4%
CFO/Rev LTM10.1%13.7%-1.8%18.2%11.2%11.2%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg8.1%15.5%6.5%17.4%11.9%11.9%
FCF/Rev LTM7.3%7.7%-9.1%13.3%7.6%7.6%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg4.6%9.0%-1.1%10.9%9.2%9.0%

Valuation

KOPCBTWFGNGVTVMIMedian
NameKoppers Cabot West Fra.Ingevity Valmont . 
Mkt Cap0.94.05.72.49.24.0
P/S0.51.11.12.02.21.1
P/Op Inc4.78.2-7.38.315.78.2
P/EBIT-25.28.3-3.922.315.78.3
P/E-10.321.3-4.743.819.219.2
P/CFO4.78.1-61.911.219.48.1
Total Yield-8.9%7.1%-19.4%2.3%5.8%2.3%
Dividend Yield0.8%2.4%1.8%0.0%0.6%0.8%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg11.8%7.5%-0.9%6.7%5.4%6.7%
D/E1.10.30.10.50.10.3
Net D/E1.10.30.10.50.10.3

Returns

KOPCBTWFGNGVTVMIMedian
NameKoppers Cabot West Fra.Ingevity Valmont . 
1M Rtn-1.3%-8.7%6.3%-10.0%-6.2%-6.2%
3M Rtn7.2%-10.8%3.8%-4.9%-15.8%-4.9%
6M Rtn25.6%16.8%15.7%3.9%18.9%16.8%
12M Rtn64.7%3.2%-0.4%21.2%27.9%21.2%
3Y Rtn23.6%20.4%4.1%34.6%104.0%23.6%
1M Excs Rtn1.1%-6.2%8.8%-7.5%-3.7%-3.7%
3M Excs Rtn4.7%-11.2%4.0%-5.5%-15.0%-5.5%
6M Excs Rtn11.9%2.6%-1.7%-11.9%4.1%2.6%
12M Excs Rtn50.5%-12.3%-15.8%2.1%12.5%2.1%
3Y Excs Rtn-40.9%-48.0%-60.1%-30.9%32.6%-40.9%

Comparison Analyses

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Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Railroad and Utility Products and Services927943898788730
Performance Chemicals575683700602503
Carbon Materials and Chemicals499592672687445
Intersegment revenues-122-125-116-96 
Total1,8792,0922,1541,9801,679


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222020
Performance Chemicals871281096089
Railroad and Utility Products and Services7550593147
Carbon Materials and Chemicals2216318023
Last-in, first-out (LIFO) benefit (expense)11-6-6-26 
Amortization of cloud-based software implementation costs1    
Gain on sale of assets0-1122 
Pension settlement and expense-28-400 
Impairment, restructuring and plant closure costs -170-1 
Mark-to-market commodity hedging gains -80-6 
Corporate    -2
Total167148196141157


Assets by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Railroad and Utility Products and Services828839744661594
Performance Chemicals537500521517587
Carbon Materials and Chemicals487506539500447
Corporate3645   
Operating lease right-of-use assets  81011
Prepaid insurance and other assets  15168
Property, plant and equipment, net  1077
Income tax receivable    9
Total1,8871,8901,8361,7111,662


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$46.72 
Market Cap ($ Bil)0.9 
First Trading Date02/01/2006 
Distance from 52W High-10.5% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$47.80$38.87
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA-2.3%20.2%
 3M1YR
Volatility33.2%34.9%
Downside Capture44.5341.27
Upside Capture78.0093.19
Correlation (SPY)31.6%32.9%
KOP Betas & Captures as of 8/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta1.460.990.880.970.910.99
Up Beta2.361.320.560.851.411.13
Down Beta0.391.241.511.191.031.02
Up Capture40%84%102%106%86%59%
Bmk +ve Days10213268138427
Stock +ve Days11243875138392
Down Capture236%79%52%85%54%98%
Bmk -ve Days11213259113324
Stock -ve Days10182652111355

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with KOP
KOP65.0%34.8%1.49-
Sector ETF (XLB)12.4%17.8%0.5038.6%
Equity (SPY)15.1%12.8%0.8232.4%
Gold (GLD)15.7%29.3%0.505.1%
Commodities (DBC)47.3%20.7%1.76-13.2%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.8%13.5%0.1026.2%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-34.6%43.9%-0.849.2%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with KOP
KOP8.7%38.2%0.31-
Sector ETF (XLB)5.7%19.1%0.1955.4%
Equity (SPY)12.3%17.2%0.5446.2%
Gold (GLD)18.6%18.8%0.804.6%
Commodities (DBC)11.5%19.6%0.4614.1%
Real Estate (VNQ)0.5%18.9%-0.0840.4%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)10.4%52.5%0.3817.6%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with KOP
KOP4.0%48.7%0.27-
Sector ETF (XLB)9.6%20.7%0.4159.4%
Equity (SPY)15.0%18.0%0.7151.6%
Gold (GLD)11.8%16.3%0.591.9%
Commodities (DBC)8.6%18.1%0.3922.6%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.4%20.7%0.1847.2%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)62.0%66.1%1.0215.6%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date8312026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity1.0 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 815202621.6%
Average Daily Volume0.2 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest5.8 days
Basic Shares Quantity19.1 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares5.0%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 9/9/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
8/6/20262.5%-11.2%-8.0%
5/8/20266.9%3.0%0.4%
2/26/20267.9%11.7%12.6%
11/7/2025-4.1%5.6%0.1%
8/8/2025-13.3%-7.9%-13.6%
5/9/20253.4%20.1%26.0%
2/27/2025-9.4%-11.5%-9.5%
11/8/2024-2.1%-1.2%-7.9%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive141413
# Negative101011
Median Positive4.2%5.0%10.0%
Median Negative-4.7%-7.0%-8.0%
Max Positive14.8%20.1%26.0%
Max Negative-16.9%-17.8%-16.5%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
8/6/20262.5%-11.2%-8.0%
5/8/20266.9%3.0%0.4%
2/26/20267.9%11.7%12.6%
11/7/2025-4.1%5.6%0.1%
8/8/2025-13.3%-7.9%-13.6%
5/9/20253.4%20.1%26.0%
2/27/2025-9.4%-11.5%-9.5%
11/8/2024-2.1%-1.2%-7.9%
8/8/20240.7%4.4%3.9%
5/3/2024-16.9%-17.8%-16.0%
2/28/20247.6%0.9%3.3%
11/3/20231.4%6.4%22.6%
8/3/20231.3%2.1%1.2%
5/5/20235.9%-0.2%-1.2%
2/27/20232.5%9.3%-2.9%
11/4/202214.8%15.9%25.8%
8/4/2022-3.4%3.8%-6.9%
5/6/2022-5.0%-5.9%11.2%
2/23/20224.9%1.5%3.1%
11/4/2021-13.1%-8.6%-16.5%
8/6/20212.1%3.1%10.0%
5/7/20216.9%-4.9%-6.2%
2/24/2021-3.8%-6.2%-11.9%
11/4/2020-4.5%7.9%14.4%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive141413
# Negative101011
Median Positive4.2%5.0%10.0%
Median Negative-4.7%-7.0%-8.0%
Max Positive14.8%20.1%26.0%
Max Negative-16.9%-17.8%-16.5%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
06/30/202608/06/202610-Q
03/31/202605/08/202610-Q
12/31/202502/26/202610-K
09/30/202511/07/202510-Q
06/30/202508/08/202510-Q
03/31/202505/09/202510-Q
12/31/202402/27/202510-K
09/30/202411/08/202410-Q
06/30/202408/08/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/28/202410-K
09/30/202311/03/202310-Q
06/30/202308/03/202310-Q
03/31/202305/05/202310-Q
12/31/202202/27/202310-K
09/30/202211/04/202210-Q
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
06/30/202608/06/202610-Q
03/31/202605/08/202610-Q
12/31/202502/26/202610-K
09/30/202511/07/202510-Q
06/30/202508/08/202510-Q
03/31/202505/09/202510-Q
12/31/202402/27/202510-K
09/30/202411/08/202410-Q
06/30/202408/08/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/28/202410-K
09/30/202311/03/202310-Q
06/30/202308/03/202310-Q
03/31/202305/05/202310-Q
12/31/202202/27/202310-K
09/30/202211/04/202210-Q
06/30/202208/04/202210-Q
03/31/202205/06/202210-Q
12/31/202102/23/202210-K
09/30/202111/04/202110-Q
06/30/202108/06/202110-Q
03/31/202105/07/202110-Q
12/31/202002/24/202110-K
09/30/202011/04/202010-Q
06/30/202008/05/202010-Q
03/31/202005/07/202010-Q
12/31/201902/27/202010-K
09/30/201911/07/201910-Q

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 8/7/2026

Latest: Q2 2026 Earnings Reported 8/6/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Operating cash flowReported165.00 Mil175.00 Mil185.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 175.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Net salesReported1.90 Bil1.95 Bil2.00 Bil0 AffirmedGuidance: 1.95 Bil for 2026
2026 Adjusted EBITDAReported240.00 Mil245.00 Mil250.00 Mil-2.0% LoweredGuidance: 250.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Effective tax rate on adjusted net incomeReported 28.0%  0AffirmedGuidance: 28.0% for 2026
2026 Adjusted EPSReported3.844.2-4.8% LoweredGuidance: 4.2 for 2026
2026 Capital expendituresReported 55.00 Mil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 55.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Free cash flowReported110.00 Mil120.00 Mil130.00 Mil   


Prior: Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 5/8/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Operating cash flowReported165.00 Mil175.00 Mil185.00 Mil9.4% RaisedGuidance: 160.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Net salesReported1.90 Bil1.95 Bil2.00 Bil0 AffirmedGuidance: 1.95 Bil for 2026
2026 Adjusted EBITDAReported240.00 Mil250.00 Mil260.00 Mil-3.8% LoweredGuidance: 260.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Effective tax rate on adjusted net incomeReported 28.0%  0AffirmedGuidance: 28.0% for 2026
2026 Adjusted EPSReported3.84.24.6-8.7% LoweredGuidance: 4.6 for 2026
2026 Capital expendituresReported 55.00 Mil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 55.00 Mil for 2026

Q4 2025 Earnings Reported 2/26/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Operating cash flowReported150.00 Mil160.00 Mil170.00 Mil18.5% Higher NewActual: 135.00 Mil for 2025
2026 Net salesReported1.90 Bil1.95 Bil2.00 Bil2.6% Higher NewActual: 1.90 Bil for 2025
2026 Adjusted EBITDAReported250.00 Mil260.00 Mil270.00 Mil1.0% Higher NewActual: 257.50 Mil for 2025
2026 Effective tax rate on adjusted net incomeReported 28.0%    
2026 Adjusted EPSReported4.24.6512.9% Higher NewActual: 4.08 for 2025
2026 Capital expendituresReported 55.00 Mil 2.8% Higher NewActual: 53.50 Mil for 2025

Q3 2025 Earnings Reported 11/7/2025

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2025 Operating cash flowReported 135.00 Mil -10.0% LoweredGuidance: 150.00 Mil for 2025
2025 RevenueReported 1.90 Bil -2.6% LoweredGuidance: 1.95 Bil for 2025
2025 Adjusted EBITDAReported 257.50 Mil -1.0% LoweredGuidance: 260.00 Mil for 2025
2025 Adjusted EPSReported 4.08 -5.2% LoweredGuidance: 4.3 for 2025
2025 Capital expendituresReported 53.50 Mil -2.7% LoweredGuidance: 55.00 Mil for 2025
2028 EPS GrowthReported 10.0%    

Insider Activity

Updated 9/15/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell901202645.964,000183,84019,742,366Form
2Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell820202645.843,000137,52019,874,180Form
3Lucas, Stephen GSVP, Culture and EngagementDirectSell813202644.551,30858,2711,530,070Form
4Sullivan, James APresident and CTODirectSell812202650.007,500375,0004,144,887Form
5Pearce, Bradley ACAODirectSell811202651.012,000102,0202,093,297Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell901202645.964,000183,84019,742,366Form
2Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell820202645.843,000137,52019,874,180Form
3Lucas, Stephen GSVP, Culture and EngagementDirectSell813202644.551,30858,2711,530,070Form
4Sullivan, James APresident and CTODirectSell812202650.007,500375,0004,144,887Form
5Pearce, Bradley ACAODirectSell811202651.012,000102,0202,093,297Form
6Sullivan, James APresident and CTODirectSell811202650.0180,0004,000,9214,520,928Form
7Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell623202643.903,412149,78719,151,085Form
8Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell615202641.344,141171,18918,187,756Form
9Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell514202642.552,659113,14018,896,302Form
10Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell318202637.912,48994,35816,963,186Form
11Ball, M LeroyCEODirectSell304202636.876,275231,37116,602,451Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Sep 17, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Simcoe Capital Management, LLC$36.5 Mil6.8%14ADD +16.1%13F
Quaker Capital Investments, LLC$17.7 Mil4.3%21Hold13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Simcoe Capital Management, LLC$36.5 Mil6.8%14ADD +16.1%13F
Active Manager
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Simcoe Capital Management, LLC$36.5 Mil6.8%14ADD +16.1%13F
Quaker Capital Investments, LLC$17.7 Mil4.3%21Hold13F
Core Cache Last Updated: 9/16/2026