Is the BHP share price a good coronavirus hedge?

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price is down 2.6% this year but could it be a hidden coronavirus hedge in August?

| More on:
BHP share price

Source:BHP

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

I think the BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price could be a good hedge right now.

Investors are starting to talk about a "two-speed" share market. We're seeing a real split across the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) between the winners and losers in the current economy.

On the one hand, industries like travel and hospitality are struggling. However, some mining sectors, tech and gold are booming in the current climate.

I think the BHP share price could be part of that "quicker speed" part of the economy. And that's why it could be a good coronavirus hedge right now.

Why the BHP share price has been surging higher

Shares in the Aussie iron ore miners have done reasonably well this year.

The BHP share price is down 2.6% for the year while Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) and Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares have climbed 69.8% and 2.8% higher, respectively.

For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 10.3% in the year to date.

The key factor here has been surging iron ore prices. Demand out of China has been strong as the country's infrastructure boom continues.

That is good news for the BHP share price and the miner's August earnings result. BHP is set to announce its FY20 result on August 18 and it'll be one worth watching.

Why BHP could be a coronavirus hedge

It seems like much of BHP's fortunes currently rest with China. While many ASX 200 shares are struggling, this unconventional share price driver could make BHP a good hedge.

Despite all the rhetoric around trade diversification and a move away from China, it still makes up 48.8% of Australia's exports.

That's good news for the iron ore miners like BHP. If the demand for iron ore remains strong, the BHP share price could break even in no time.

In fact, if Australia starts an infrastructure boom of its own, BHP shares could be back in positive territory by the end of the year.

Motley Fool contributor Ken Hall has no position in any of the 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 Scott Phillips.

More on Resources Shares

Two miners standing together with a smile on their faces.
Resources Shares

Fortescue shares vs. BHP: Which delivered superior returns in 2025?

We compare the 12-month returns of the two biggest ASX 200 mining shares, BHP and Fortescue.

Read more »

A gloved hand holds lumps of silver against a background of dirt as if at a mine site.
Resources Shares

Silver just tumbled 5% today. What on earth is going on?

Silver fell 5% after record highs as profit taking hit demand.

Read more »

Engineer looking at mining trucks at a mine site.
Resources Shares

Gallium has been earmarked as a critical mineral. Here's how you can get exposure on the ASX

These four companies are all looking to become producers.

Read more »

A woman is very excited about something she's just seen on her computer, clenching her fists and smiling broadly.
Resources Shares

Up 113% since April, why this $4 billion ASX 200 mining stock is tipped to keep outperforming in 2026

A leading broker forecasts more outperformance from this surging ASX 200 mining stock.

Read more »

Three miners stand together at a mine site studying documents with equipment in the background
Resources Shares

BHP shares hover near 52-week high as momentum builds. Is a breakout coming?

BHP shares trade near a 52-week high as buyer momentum supports the uptrend.

Read more »

a miniature moulded model of a man bent over with a pick working stands behind a sign that has lithium's scientific abbreviation 'Li' with the word lithium underneath it against a sparse bland background.
Resources Shares

PLS shares near all-time high as lithium rebounds. Buy now or wait?

PLS shares surge as lithium rebounds, but technical signals suggest volatility near all-time highs.

Read more »

A coal miner smiling and holding a coal rock, symbolising a rising share price.
Resources Shares

The government is looking to stockpile antimony – these four companies can help you gain exposure

These companies will be in the box seat to take full advantage.

Read more »

Man raising both his arms in the air with a piggy bank on his lap, symbolising a record high.
Resources Shares

A fourth contract win in under a month has this ASX 200 company's shares at a new record high

The company has more than doubled in value over the past year.

Read more »