Miner watch: Is BHP Billiton worth your attention at this share price?

The BHP share price has rebounded today, but is still trading lower in 2017

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The BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) share price has so far managed to rebound 1.6% today following yesterday's sell-down. The BHP share price is now fetching $24.30, compared to a recent high of $27.95.

BHP Billiton has been one of the market's top performing blue chip shares over the past 12 months, lifting around 38% during that time. Although it started 2017 on another high note however, the BHP share price has since taken a turn for the worse and is trading 3% lower since the year began.

The reason for yesterday's decline appears to have been a sharp fall in the price of both iron ore and oil – both of which BHP produces. The iron ore price fell 4.3% on Tuesday and another 3% overnight to just under US$85 a tonne, according to The Metal Bulletin, while oil prices were trading 0.6% lower as well.

Although commodity prices are prone to fluctuations, the movements over the past two sessions are bound to make some investors in the sector anxious. After all, both iron ore and oil have skyrocketed in price since bottoming out in early 2016. But with particular regards to iron ore, there are some predictions that suggest a sharp decline is in store for the commodity before the end of 2017 which has the potential to drag heavily on the BHP share price, together with the share prices of rivals Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) and Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO).

For instance, The Australian Financial Review recently reported:

"However, for all that commodity's price gains defied predictions in 2016 and early 2017, many analysts now believe new supply, high inventories, and insufficient demand are setting iron ore up for sharp losses in the second half of this year."

Now, BHP is one of the lowest cost producers in the world, as are Rio Tinto and Fortescue. But falling iron ore prices would still have an impact on their margins and hence, their ability to generate stronger returns for shareholders.

Because of its diversification, its long operating history and its lower costs, BHP is justifiably one of the first miners investors should look at for exposure to the sector. But after its strong run, and the risk of a pullback in commodity prices this year, investors ought to approach with caution.

Motley Fool contributor Ryan Newman has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

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