Top Materials Stocks of 2012 #8: International Paper

International Paper is not only the largest company of its kind anywhere in the world, but it's also growing its business fast. Although it does receive 75% of its revenue from the North American market, it ranks among the top four businesses in its sector in every emerging market it's located in, with big pushes coming in countries such as Brazil. In this video, Motley Fool materials analyst Taylor Muckerman tells us how this company has managed to have such a blockbuster year (up almost 26% year-to-date), while others in the paper business are struggling.

International Paper isn't the only materials company to seek expansion via acquisitions in 2012. After putting together a blockbuster deal to expand into the oil and natural gas industry, Freeport-McMoRan will have plenty on its plate as it tries to adapt to the new industry, as this move likely carries plenty of inherent volatility. FCX had a profitable copper business, and on top of this foray into a new industry, it still has to contend with mining industry bellwether BHP Billiton. To find out if Freeport-McMoRan is a buy or a sell, simply click here now to check out The Motley Fool's brand new premium report on the company!

The article Top Materials Stocks of 2012 #8: International Paper originally appeared on Fool.com.

Joel South, Taylor Muckerman, and The Motley Fool have no positions in the stocks mentioned above. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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