Core Insights - Master limited partnerships (MLPs) have underperformed the broader market in 2025, with the Alerian MLP Index down approximately 2.5% while the Energy Select Sector SPDR gained about 3.2% year to date [1] - Despite the sector's weak performance, certain MLPs like Enterprise Products Partners LP, Energy Transfer LP, and Plains All American Pipeline LP continue to attract investor interest [1] Business Structure of MLPs - MLPs are distinct from regular stocks as interests are referred to as units, and unitholders are considered partners in the business [2] - These entities combine the tax advantages of limited partnerships with the liquidity of publicly traded securities [2] Revenue Stability - MLPs typically own assets such as oil and natural gas pipelines and storage facilities, which generate stable fee-based revenues and have limited direct exposure to commodity prices [3] - This structure allows MLPs to maintain and grow distributions over time [3] Factors Contributing to Underperformance - Investor caution regarding near-term volume growth has been a significant factor, with uneven producer activity noted among customers [4] - Contract renewals and pricing pressures have also impacted MLPs, as new contracts may be set at lower rates upon expiration of older agreements [5] - Delays in project earnings due to many large investments being in later stages have led to a shift in investor focus away from MLPs [6] Future Outlook for 2026 - Management teams are optimistic about long-term demand for crude oil, natural gas, and NGL infrastructure, driven by exports and power generation [7] - Improvements from cost cuts, past acquisitions, and built-in contract increases are expected to enhance earnings starting in 2026 [8] - Reduced debt levels are anticipated to provide companies with greater financial flexibility, supporting distributions and making the sector more appealing to investors [8] MLPs to Monitor - Despite challenges in 2025, the outlook for 2026 appears more balanced, with improving fundamentals and visible growth drivers [9] - Key MLPs to watch include Enterprise Products Partners, Energy Transfer, and Plains All American Pipeline, all of which are recognized for their scale, diversified assets, and disciplined capital allocation [9]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights two pipeline stocks, Energy Transfer and Genesis Energy, as having strong upside potential for investors, particularly in the current market environment where AI stocks are gaining attention. Group 1: Energy Transfer - Energy Transfer has established one of the largest midstream systems in the U.S., handling natural gas, crude oil, NGLs, and refined products, benefiting from volume movements and regional spreads [2] - The company plans to invest approximately $5 billion in growth capital expenditures this year, an increase from $3 billion the previous year, focusing on projects in the Permian Basin [3] - The Lake Charles LNG project is progressing, which could secure long-term cash flows as global LNG demand is projected to grow by 60% by 2040 [4] - Financially, Energy Transfer is in a strong position with low leverage, expecting 90% of 2025 EBITDA from fee-based contracts, and plans to increase its distribution by 3% to 5% annually [5] Group 2: Genesis Energy - Genesis Energy has improved its financial health by selling its soda ash business for $1.4 billion, using the proceeds to reduce debt and save approximately $84 million annually in interest [7] - The company is set to benefit from two major offshore projects, Shenandoah and Salamanca, which could add up to $150 million annually in operating profit once fully operational [8] - Shenandoah Phase One is expected to reach 100,000 barrels per day by the end of September, with plans to expand capacity to 140,000 barrels per day by 2026 [9] - Despite a challenging quarter for its marine transportation segment, Genesis anticipates generating free cash flow soon and aims to reduce its revolver balance by the end of 2025, potentially allowing for distribution increases [10] - While Genesis Energy carries more risk compared to Energy Transfer, it presents greater upside potential if its projects succeed [11]