#EV Supply Chain

LG Energy Solution: Strategic Assets, Unproven Returns

LG Energy Solution is the largest Korean large-format battery maker, running a three-part machine of automotive cells for global OEMs, IRA-localized North American capacity, and a fast-growing energy-storage pivot, with 2025 revenue of ₩23.7tn. The 2026 question is whether it can earn real returns on a ₩42.6tn asset base: Q1 2026 still posted a ₩207.8bn operating loss even after ₩189.8bn of AMPC credits, though 46-series backlog has topped 440 GWh and ESS is becoming a credible second leg. Rating Hold: at ₩404,500 the stock trades near 4.0x sales and already prices a recovery, leaving no clear margin of safety until ex-credit profitability inflects.