BHP Billiton bumps the dividend

BHP Billiton, one of my favorite, permanent holding companies, reported better than expected earnings today. In an environment in which the prices of all 4 of their primary commodities are in the tank, the company continued to operate admirably. Continued cost cutting and inefficiencies were found (from god know’s where) and the company reduced debt, improving it’s balance sheet. 

We also heard further color on the South32 split, in which the company has promised not only to maintain, but up the dividend 5! You can expect South32 to announce their own dividend as well, so this really is an impressive increase. So long as BHP manages to do so without overly stressing it’s balance sheet, I’m a fan. 

Another solid dividend raise for my portfolio.

Slide from BHP 2014-Q4 earnings presentation

Disclosure: I own BHP stock and was previously employed there.