International Paper Company (IP) has cleared a milestone in its acquisition process for DS Smith (DITHF) , with the expiration of the mandatory 30-day waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act. This brings the companies closer to finalizing the deal, which will strengthen IP’s corrugated packaging business in Europe and prioritize sustainable packaging. The buyout is expected to be accretive to IP’s earnings in the first year of closure and provide at least $514 million of pre-tax cash synergies on an ...