Why did KeyCorp upgrade International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) to a 'Hold' rating despite its recent earnings miss?

KeyCorp upgraded IFF to 'Hold' based on its positive forward-looking outlook, projecting $4.05 EPS for FY2027 and $4.45 for FY2028, alongside a 1.8% year-over-year revenue increase and a newly authorized $2.5 billion share repurchase program — all signaling management's belief that the stock is undervalued despite the recent $0.82 EPS result falling short of the $1.07 consensus.

What financial indicators and strategic actions support KeyCorp’s revised 'Hold' rating on IFF?

KeyCorp’s 'Hold' rating rests on three core facts from the news: (1) projected EPS growth to $4.05 in FY2027 and $4.45 in FY2028; (2) a 1.8% year-over-year revenue increase, demonstrating underlying top-line resilience despite the earnings miss; and (3) the $2.5 billion share repurchase authorization, which KeyCorp interprets as strong management conviction in the company’s intrinsic value and current stock undervaluation.

International Flavors & Fragrances (NYSE:IFF) Raised to Hold at KeyCorp

Sep 11, 2026

KeyCorp upgraded International Flavors & Fragrances to a Hold rating, projecting FY2027 earnings of $4.05 per share despite a recent miss. The company reported 1.8% revenue growth and authorized a $2.5 billion share repurchase program.

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