Why BHP Is Targeting Anglo in Mining Mega Deal: QuickTake

BHP Group Ltd. has proposed acquiring Anglo American Plc, in a deal that would create the world’s biggest copper producer and spell the end for one of the most storied names in mining.

The 107-year-old Anglo has long been viewed as a takeover candidate, and a two-year-long slump in its shares has made it a softer target. A combination of plunging commodity prices — for platinum group metals and diamonds — and operational setbacks at key mines made it particularly vulnerable. When Anglo shocked the market in December by curbing its guidance for copper output, potential bidders began ...