The BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) share price has switched into a new gear today, rising 5% to $16.83.
Although the mining behemoth has had to contend with plenty of headwinds in recent years – and particularly over the last 18 months or so – it is currently riding on the tailwinds of an improvement in the iron ore and oil prices.
The commodities still remain well below their prices from previous years, but they have risen strongly in recent weeks. This week, the gains appear to have come about due to China's decision to reduce the Reserve Requirement Ratio (RRR) to help stimulate its economy, while oil prices also appear to be rising based on renewed hopes that OPEC could be close to reaching an agreement to freeze output.
Iron ore and oil are BHP's two most important commodities – and the ones that have inflicted the most damage on BHP's earnings results in recent times – so it makes sense that their recent rally would create a spark among BHP Billiton investors.
Notably, shares of Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO) have also risen 4.7%, while Woodside Petroleum Limited's (ASX: WPL) share price is up 5% for the day as well.
It's impossible to tell whether, or for how long, the strength in the commodities' prices can be sustained and that is a risk investors need to consider before buying into the sector. Still, for now at least, investors have been given the chance to catch their breaths and enjoy the rebound.