BHP Billiton Posts Rise In H1 Profit

BHP Billiton

reported a gain in its first-half profit. BHP's net profit for the period rose to US$8.11 billion, from a year-ago profit of US$4.43 billion. However, analysts were expecting a profit of US$7.04 billion. The company also raised its interim dividend by 3.5% to 59 U.S. cents per share. BHP shares closed at $68.32 on Friday.