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• BHP Group (ASX:BHP) is converting its Escondida Norte pit into one of the world’s first fully autonomous mines, reshaping how it runs one of its key copper assets.
• Chinese import restrictions on Jimblebar iron ore are affecting BHP’s sales into a core market and are feeding into contract talks and sourcing decisions.
• The company has selected its largest cohort for the 2026 Xplor early-stage exploration program, expanding its pipeline of potential future projects.

BHP Group, trading as ASX:BHP, sits at the center of global commodity supply, with major positions in iron ore and copper that link directly to construction, infrastructure and electrification trends. Automation at Escondida Norte ties into a broader industry push toward remote operations and data driven pits, which can change cost profiles, operating risks and workforce needs over time.

At the same time, China’s restrictions on Jimblebar iron ore and BHP’s broader exploration push through the 2026 Xplor cohort offer a view of how the company is adjusting its mix of customers and future options. These moves may affect how BHP balances technology, market access and new resource discoveries over time.

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ASX:BHP Earnings & Revenue Growth as at Feb 2026

How BHP Group stacks up against its biggest competitors

Investor Checklist Quick Assessment

• ❌ Price vs Analyst Target: At A$49.42, the share price is about 3.8% above the A$47.62 analyst target.
• ❌ Simply Wall St Valuation: Shares are described as trading 23.1% above estimated fair value.
• ✅ Recent Momentum: The 30 day return is 8.0%.

Check out Simply Wall St’s
in depth valuation analysis for BHP Group.

Key Considerations

• 📊 The Escondida Norte autonomous mine plan and China import restrictions point to a business that is adjusting how and where it sources returns from key assets.
• 📊 Watch how automation spending, copper output from Escondida and any changes in Jimblebar sales mix show up in future earnings and capital expenditure numbers.
• ⚠️ The flagged risk of an unstable dividend record may matter more if trade restrictions or project costs pressure cash flows.

Dig Deeper

For the full picture including more risks and rewards, check out the
complete BHP Group analysis.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data
and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your
financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data.
Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material.
Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include BHP.AX.

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