BHP ‘quite sure’ iron ore demand will stay solid in face of forecast China slowdown

Core Viewpoint - BHP Group remains optimistic about its iron ore sales despite challenges posed by China's ban on local steelmakers purchasing from the company, indicating a resilient demand for its key commodity this year [1][3]. Group 1: Company Performance - BHP reported a record amount of iron ore mined over the last three months, with full-year production guidance unchanged at 258 million to 269 million tonnes [2][6]. - Sales figures have remained consistent with the previous year, highlighted by a 5% increase in sales of higher-value lump iron ore [6]. - Total copper production increased by 4% to 494,000 tonnes, with full-year guidance also remaining at two million tonnes [6]. Group 2: Market Reaction - Following the news of the China iron ore boycott, BHP's stock initially dropped below $42 but has since recovered, climbing by 5.2% in the last trading week [4][5]. - Investors appear to respond positively to BHP's stance on the situation with China, interpreting the company's comments as a sign of confidence [5]. Group 3: Economic Outlook - BHP's chief, Mike Henry, noted that while a deceleration in growth is expected in the second half of 2025, China's GDP growth is still projected at 5% for the year [4]. - Overall macroeconomic signals for commodity demand are described as resilient, with global growth forecasts improving [3].