IBK Securities predicted that LG Display could achieve an operating profit in the first quarter of this year (January to March) due to the effect of the won-dollar exchange rate on the U.S. dollar on the 12th.
Kim Un-ho, an analyst at IBK Securities, estimated that LG Display would record sales of 594.2 billion won and an operating profit of 500 million won in the first quarter. Compared to previous estimates, sales are 7.9% higher, and the operating loss of 10.4 billion won has turned into profit.
Unlike securities firms predicting an average operating loss of 134.9 billion won for LG Display in the first quarter, there is a suggestion that it could produce an 'earnings surprise.' Kim noted, "The rise in average selling price (ASP) due to the improvement in the won-dollar exchange rate is the main reason for the higher earnings estimate, rather than improvements in volume."
Kim maintained a 'buy' investment opinion on LG Display with a target price of 16,000 won. He said, "I expect the operating loss for LG Display in the first half to decrease significantly compared to last year, and with the competitiveness of P-OLED (flexible panels) and improvements in cost structure, annual profit growth is also possible."
He continued, "W-OLED (large panels) is also expected to see an end to depreciation in the second half of 2025, which should improve profitability."