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 factors are driving BHP's expected biggest first half profit in three years?

What are investors looking for in BHP's earnings report regarding cash proceeds?

What is the activist investor Elliott Management pushing for in relation to BHP?

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

How might BHP approach the divestment of its shale assets?