LG Energy Sees Surprise Loss as EV Demand Outlook Cools

LG Energy Solution Ltd. reported a surprise preliminary operating loss for the fourth quarter, as the slow unraveling of electric vehicle demand in key markets darkens the outlook for South Korea’s largest battery maker.

It had an operating loss of 122 billion won ($83.8 million) in the three months ended Dec. 31, the company said. That missed analyst estimates for a 33.1 billion won profit, though losses shrank from 225.5 billion won in the same period a year earlier.