BHP BILLITON RESULTS FOR THE HALF-YEAR Ended 31 DECEMBER 2011
Strong financial results with Underlying EBITDA up 8% to US$18.7 billion and Underlying EBIT up 6% to US$15.7 billion. Attributable profit down 6% and Attributable profit excluding exceptional items down 7% to US$9.9 billion.
Underlying EBIT margin remained in excess of 40% despite significant volatility across many of our core markets while Underlying return on capital was 28%.
Record production for two commodities and six operations.
Robust operating cash flow of US$12.3 billion and a rigorous project approvals process underpin our fundamental commitment to a solid A credit rating.
Gearing increased to 25% following the successful acquisition of Petrohawk Energy Corporation. We will continue to focus efforts on the most productive areas of our high quality Onshore US acreage as we strive to maximise economic returns from our investment program.
Interim dividend of 55 US cents per share, up 20%.
