ASX Mixed Amid BHP, CSL Gains; Big Four Banks Decline

The Australian sharemarket had a mixed day on Tuesday as some big-name stocks rose while others fell. BHP, the world's largest mining company and biggest ASX stock, jumped 3.6% after announcing its biggest dividend payout in four years. The resources giant reported a 9% lift in full-year profit to US$9.8 billion and revenues climbed 15% to US$58.8 billion.

BHP's smaller rivals Rio Tinto and Fortescue rose by 0.4% and 1.2%, respectively. Gold miner Ausgold skyrocketed 24% after agreeing to be taken over by Canada's OceanaGold for $776 million. Meanwhile, Australia's largest healthcare company CSL soared 14.8% despite posting a net loss of US$2.6 billion due to restructuring costs and impairments.

Energy stocks also advanced as the price of Brent crude climbed again due to dwindling hopes for peace in the Middle East. The local bourse lost 0.5% on Monday, but the Australian dollar was stronger at US71.03¢.