BHP Billiton has announced its interim results for the half year ended December 31st 2010.

Underlying EBIT was USD 357 million, an increase of USD 157 million or 79% when compared with the corresponding period. The higher average LME price for nickel of USD 10.16 per pound increased Underlying EBIT by USD 386 million.

Price linked costs associated with the purchase of third party ore and concentrate at Nickel West (Australia) were the major offsetting factors, reducing Underlying EBIT by USD 142 million. Costs were also negatively affected by a combined USD 92 million impact of a weaker US dollar and inflation.