Core Viewpoint - Energy Transfer is positioned for significant growth through a combination of organic expansion projects and strategic acquisitions, which have historically enhanced its cash flow and distribution yield, currently at nearly 7% [1][3][11] Growth Strategy - The company plans to invest $5 billion in growth capital projects this year, up from $3 billion last year, indicating a strong commitment to organic growth [6] - Energy Transfer has several expansion projects underway, including the $2.7 billion Hugh Brinson natural gas pipeline, which is expected to enhance its capacity significantly [7] Acquisition Strategy - Acquisitions have been a key driver of growth, with annual adjusted EBITDA increasing from $13.1 billion in 2022 to $15.5 billion in 2023, representing an over 18% increase [3] - The company has made several strategic acquisitions, including Woodford Express, Lotus Midstream, Crestwood Equity Partners, and WTG Midstream, which are expected to contribute positively to earnings [3][5] Future Outlook - Energy Transfer anticipates that the WTG Midstream acquisition will add $0.04 per unit to its distributable cash flow this year, increasing to $0.07 per unit by 2027 [4] - The company expects to see the majority of earnings growth from its ongoing projects ramping up in 2026 and 2027 [7][10] Market Trends - The company identifies three key themes for future growth: strong production growth in the Permian Basin, increasing demand for natural gas power, and rising global demand for natural gas liquids [9] - These trends are expected to facilitate the acquisition of new expansion projects over the next three years [9] Distribution Growth - Energy Transfer plans to increase its distribution payout by 3% to 5% annually, providing investors with a growing stream of passive income [11]

There's nothing particularly magical about a 10% drop in a stock market index. It is just a number, like any other. But it still stirs up emotions, particularly the fear of losing money. That's a very powerful motivator, and with the Nasdaq Composite off by more than 10% as of this writing, fear is in the air today.If you feel like you need to find some "safe" (or least safer) stocks, try looking at reliable dividend payers like PepsiCo (PEP -2.51%), Enterprise Products Partners (EPD -1.43%), and Black Hill ...