A speed bump Energy Transfer is coming off a strong year. The MLP produced a company-record $15.5 billion in adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) last year. That was at the high end of its guidance range, and up 13% from 2023's level. The MLP's growth engine has slowed considerably in 2025. Units of Energy Transfer (ET 0.03%) have stumbled this year, declining by more than 10%. The energy midstream giant has woefully underperformed the S&P 500 (^GSPC -0.59%), whi ...

Group 1 - The article discusses a comparison between MPLX LP and Western Midstream to determine which MLP is a better investment choice [1] - The author, Roberts Berzins, has over a decade of experience in financial management and has contributed to the development of financial strategies for top-tier corporates [1] - Berzins has also worked on institutionalizing the REIT framework in Latvia to enhance the liquidity of pan-Baltic capital markets [1] Group 2 - The article does not provide any specific financial data or performance metrics for MPLX LP or Western Midstream [1] - There is no mention of any recent events or news that could impact the performance of these companies [1]

Core Viewpoint - Energy Transfer is a leading midstream company that generates substantial cash flow through its diversified portfolio of energy infrastructure, making it an attractive investment for passive income seekers [1][2]. Financial Performance - The master limited partnership (MLP) generated $8.4 billion in cash last year, distributing $4.4 billion to investors, with a current distribution yield of 7.5% [2]. - The latest quarterly distribution payment is set at $0.3275 per unit, reflecting a more than 3% increase from the previous year [3]. - The company produced enough cash to cover its distribution by 1.9 times last year, with a 10% increase in distributable cash flow driven by acquisitions and organic growth [4]. Growth Strategy - Energy Transfer invested $3 billion in growth capital projects last year and plans to invest an additional $5 billion this year, targeting a 5% earnings growth [6][7]. - The company has ongoing expansion projects, including a large-scale LNG export terminal, and anticipates growth from increased demand in the Permian Basin and global LNG exports [8]. Acquisition Activity - Energy Transfer has a history of strategic acquisitions, including WTG Midstream and Crestwood Equity Partners, aimed at expanding its midstream system and enhancing earnings [9]. Investment Appeal - The company is characterized as an income-producing machine, providing a stable and growing cash distribution to investors, making it a suitable option for those interested in MLPs [10].