Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - MPLX reported adjusted EBITDA of $1.8 billion for the third quarter, reflecting a 3% increase year-over-year [15] - Year-to-date adjusted EBITDA reached $5.2 billion, showing a 4% growth compared to the same period last year [5] - Distributable cash flows amounted to $1.5 billion, supporting a return of $1.1 billion to unit holders [5][15] - The company increased its quarterly distribution by 12.5% for the second consecutive year, marking a total annualized base distribution growth of over 50% in the past four years [4][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the crude oil and products logistics segment, adjusted EBITDA increased by $43 million compared to Q3 2024, driven by higher rates despite flat pipeline volumes and a 3% decline in terminal volumes [13] - The natural gas and NGL services segment saw adjusted EBITDA rise by $9 million year-over-year, with gathered volumes increasing by 3% primarily due to production growth in the Utica [14] - Processing volumes in the Utica increased by 24% year-over-year, while Marcellus processing utilization was at 95% for the quarter [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - MPLX's investments are primarily focused on natural gas and NGL services, with over 90% of total investments allocated to these segments this year [10] - The company is advancing its strategic growth objectives in the Permian Basin, with significant expansions planned for its processing and treating capabilities [8][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - MPLX aims for mid-single-digit adjusted EBITDA growth anchored in the Marcellus and Permian basins, supported by strategic acquisitions and capital deployment [5][10] - The company is optimizing its competitive position through acquisitions, including full ownership of the Bangle NGL Pipeline System and a Delaware Basin sour gas treating business [6][8] - MPLX is focused on expanding gathering infrastructure and enhancing butane blending at terminals to maximize asset utilization [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining mid-single-digit adjusted EBITDA growth, with expectations for stronger growth in 2026 compared to 2025 [22][24] - The company anticipates that adjusted EBITDA growth will not be linear, with a focus on throughput growth from existing and new assets [17] - Management highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships and operational excellence in driving cash flow growth and delivering capital returns to unit holders [18] Other Important Information - MPLX maintains a solid balance sheet with leverage below its comfort level of four times, entering the quarter with a cash balance of $1.8 billion [16] - The company is progressing on schedule and on budget for its Gulf Coast Fractionation facility and LPG export terminal, expected to enter service in 2028 [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: EBITDA growth outlook - Management indicated that growth from 2025 to 2026 is expected to be stronger than from 2024 to 2025, supported by recent acquisitions and projects coming online [22][23] Question: Power LOI and opportunity set - Management discussed the importance of the LOI with MPC, emphasizing the potential for in-basin demand and lower-cost reliable power for producer customers [26] Question: Permian sour gas opportunity - Management confirmed that no additional AGI wells are needed to run the sour gas asset at full capacity, with a $500 million incremental capital investment planned [32] Question: Data center opportunities - Management is evaluating additional letters of intent for data center opportunities, with a focus on supporting producer customers [34] Question: In-basin demand growth - Management highlighted growth in the Marcellus and Utica regions, with expectations for new greenfield pipelines to support demand [50] Question: Distribution growth policy - Management sees a path for 12.5% distribution growth for the next couple of years, with evaluations ongoing beyond that period [65] Question: Impact of crude oil prices on logistics segment - Management noted strong demand and throughput in the logistics segment, supported by partnerships with Marathon Petroleum [71][72]