Commodity Prices Seen Boosting BHP

BHP Billiton is set to report its largest first-half profit in three years, driven by strong global growth and stable commodity prices, particularly in copper and oil. Investors are keen to see if BHP will return more cash to shareholders, following the example of Rio Tinto. Activist investor Elliott Management is pushing for a company restructuring to unlock $22 billion in value, but BHP has resisted, citing potential costs and shareholder disadvantages. Additionally, BHP is working on divesting its US shale assets, a move aligned with Elliott's broader strategy.

What is one of the main factors driving BHP Billiton's expected profit increase?

• Decreased production costs

• New technological advancements

• Strong global growth and commodity prices

• Reduction in workforce

What are investors particularly interested in regarding BHP's financial decisions?

• Expansion into new markets

• Returning cash proceeds to investors

• Hiring new executives

• Launching new products

What restructuring proposal has Elliott Management suggested to BHP?

• Reducing the workforce

• Expanding into renewable energy

• Unifying the company structure

• Merging with another company

What is BHP's current strategy regarding its US shale assets?

• Expanding production

• Partnering with local companies

• Accelerating exit and divestment

• Investing in new technology

How is BHP planning to sell its US shale assets?

• By merging with another company

• Through a public auction

• In different geographic basins

• As a single package