MARKET TALK: BHP, Rio Silent On Alcoa Bid Report

BHP Billiton (BHP.AU), Rio Tinto (RIO.AU) not commenting on report they're preparing separate bids for aluminum giant Alcoa (AA). "We don't comment on market rumors and speculation," Rio Tinto spokesman says. Media reports last week said BHP chief Chip Goodyear could launch bid for Alcoa as part of a private equity consortium. Other reports have Goodyear being approached to head up Alcoa after leaving BHP. Now the Times is reporting both miners independently considering an approach. BHP said it doesn't comment on speculation.