0832 GMT - BHP reported weaker profit but a hike in its dividend payout ratio to 60% provides investors with optimism, Hargreaves Lansdown's Matt Britzman writes. While profit fell to a 5-year low on weaker iron ore prices, its low cost base remains enviable, the senior equity analyst adds. Its ultra-low-cost operations in Australia gives it a competitive edge even when prices drop, he writes. Its management team also delivered an upbeat message on the broader commodity outlook and expressed a more flexible approach to debt, Britzman adds. Its London-listed shares rise 1.4% to 2,013 pence. (adam.whittaker@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

August 19, 2025 04:32 ET (08:32 GMT)

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