BHP(BHP) - 2025 FY - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - BHP reported a strong operational and financial performance for FY 2025, achieving a return on capital employed of 20.6% and an underlying EBITDA margin of 53% [23][24] - The company declared a total of $5.6 billion in dividends for the year, contributing to over $100 billion returned to shareholders over the past decade [17][24] - BHP's effective tax rate was approximately 45%, with nearly $10 billion paid in taxes and royalties, supporting local economies [23][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Record production was achieved at Western Australia Iron Ore, maintaining its position as the lowest-cost major iron ore producer globally for the sixth consecutive year [23] - Copper production increased by 28% over the past three years, representing the largest absolute growth among major miners [23][24] - The company reshaped its portfolio to increase exposure to copper, with 45% of EBITDA derived from copper, more than double the figure from five years ago [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - BHP's operational performance contributed nearly $47 billion to the economies it operates in, including wages, taxes, and community contributions [23] - The company is positioned to benefit from increasing global demand for critical minerals, particularly copper, as nations focus on energy transition and national security [26][28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - BHP aims for high-quality growth that drives value, focusing on a mix of assets and commodities that are attractive for future demand [14][22] - The company is strategically investing in copper and potash, with ongoing projects like the Jansen potash project in Canada and the Resolution Copper project in Arizona [24][25] - BHP emphasizes the importance of competitive tax policies to attract global investment and ensure sustainable operations [38][42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the need for stable and competitive tax settings to attract investment in the mining sector, particularly in Australia [38][42] - The company is optimistic about the future, citing a strong pipeline of growth projects and a commitment to operational excellence [28] - BHP is focused on decarbonization and environmental sustainability, aiming for a 30% reduction in carbon footprint by 2030 [69][70] Other Important Information - BHP achieved gender balance within its global employee base, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and collaboration [19][20] - The company is actively engaging with governments to address tax and royalty issues affecting its operations, particularly in Queensland [41][44] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Impact of a turnover tax on BHP and the mining industry - The Chair addressed the Australian Productivity Commission's proposal for a net cash flow tax, emphasizing the need for competitive tax policies to attract investment [38] Question: Conversations with the Queensland government regarding coal division tax relief - The Chair noted that BHP is paying significantly more in royalties than it generates in profit from its coal operations, indicating unsustainable tax settings [42][44] Question: Status of iron ore sales and currency used in transactions - Management confirmed that less than 10% of sales are conducted in currencies other than US dollars, primarily in RMB for portside sales in China [50][51] Question: Implications of recent US-Australia discussions on BHP - Management highlighted Australia's position to support US critical mineral supply chains, particularly through projects like Resolution Copper [58] Question: Concerns about dividend payment dates and operational performance - The Chair explained that variations in dividend payment dates are linked to the timing of financial results announcements [60][62] Question: Environmental sustainability and koala habitat protection - Management affirmed BHP's commitment to environmental sustainability and decarbonization, including efforts to protect local habitats [69][70] Question: Update on the Samarco dam failure compensation - Management reported that approximately $5.6 billion has been paid in compensation since the dam failure, covering around 537,000 people [75]