SYDNEY - Global mining giant BHP Billiton on Friday said it could spin-off unwanted assets to focus on top tier commodities such as iron ore, copper, coal and petroleum.
Iron ore is stockpiled for export at Port Hedland in Western Australia on February 9, 2012
The world's biggest mining company did not say which businesses could be demerged, but reports this year said its aluminium, bauxite and nickel assets could be spun-off into a single entity worth about Aus$20 billion ($18.5 billion).
"BHP Billiton has been simplifying its portfolio for over a decade and is pursuing options to make the company simpler and more productive," it said in a statement.
It signalled in April it may sell some assets but did not say how this would be achieved.
"Since then, the board has continued to study various structural alternatives including at its meeting this week. A demerger of a selection of assets is our preferred option," it said.
"The board expects to consider this, and other matters, when it reconvenes next week."
BHP added that "we believe that a portfolio focused on our major iron ore, copper, coal and petroleum assets would retain the benefits of diversification, generate stronger growth in cash flow and a superior return on investment".
"By increasing our focus on these four pillars, with potash as a potential fifth, we will be able to more quickly improve the productivity and performance of our largest businesses."
Shares in the Anglo-Australian miner, which reports its annual result on Tuesday, jumped nearly three percent in Australia on the news to Aus$39.19.