Samsung SDI expects to return to profit this year after spending the past year strengthening its business fundamentals, CEO Choi Joo-sun said Wednesday as the battery maker marked its 56th anniversary. Speaking at a commemorative ceremony at the company's headquarters in Giheung, Gyeonggi Province, Choi said the company had laid the foundation for renewed growth despite a challenging business environment. "Over the past year, we have steadily strengthened the fundamentals of our business with a mindset of 'pessimistic optimism,' laying the groundwork for a renewed leap forward," Choi said. "As promised earlier this year, we expect an earnings turnaround to be achievable this year." The comments come as Samsung SDI seeks to recover from slowing global electric vehicle demand and intensifying competition in the battery industry. Choi highlighted several achievements across the company's businesses, including securing a series of energy storage system projects, signing supply agreements with global premium automakers, restoring the competitiveness of its cylindrical battery business and exp