Core Viewpoint - The energy sector offers attractive income opportunities, with MPLX being a standout option for income investors due to its high yield and strong financial foundation [1][10]. Financial Performance - MPLX currently yields over 7%, significantly higher than the average energy stock yield of around 3% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.3% [1][10]. - The company generated nearly $1.5 billion in distributable cash flow in the first quarter, covering its distribution by 1.5 times [4]. - MPLX produced about $500 million in excess free cash flow during the same period, allowing it to cover organic capital spending comfortably [5]. Growth Potential - MPLX's adjusted EBITDA rose by 7% in the first quarter, while distributable cash flow increased by 8.5% [6]. - The company has achieved a nearly 7% compound annual growth rate in earnings and cash flow since 2021 [6]. - MPLX has increased its distribution at a 10.7% compound annual rate since 2021, including a 12.5% increase last year [7]. Future Investments - MPLX has several new investments planned, including the Traverse Pipeline, which is expected to enter commercial service in 2027, and multiple other projects with in-service dates through 2029 [8]. - The company anticipates mid-teen returns on these projects, supporting mid-single digit adjusted EBITDA growth [9]. - MPLX is actively using its strong balance sheet for acquisitions, including a $715 million purchase of the remaining 55% of the BANGL pipeline [9].

Oneok (OKE -6.61%) is a bit of an outlier. The energy infrastructure company has a high-yielding dividend (recently around 4.7%) and a high earnings growth rate (more than 10% annually). That growth and income combo has enabled the company to produce strong total returns (13% annually over the past decade). The energy midstream company has a lot of growth coming down the pipeline over the next several years. Because of that, it could continue producing robust total returns, making it look like an attractive ...