Core Viewpoint - Both Energy Transfer and Enterprise Products Partners are well-positioned for growth in the midstream sector, with Energy Transfer expected to outperform in 2026 due to its strong foundation and growth opportunities [1][11]. Energy Transfer (ET) - Energy Transfer has a market cap of $57 billion and is currently trading at $16.56, with a dividend yield of 7.94% [3][6]. - The company is poised to benefit from the AI boom and has access to some of the cheapest natural gas in the U.S., particularly from the Permian Basin [3][4]. - Energy Transfer has allocated nearly $10 billion for growth capital expenditures in 2025 and 2026, focusing on two major pipeline projects to transport natural gas [3][4]. - The stock is trading at a forward EV-to-EBITDA of 7.6 times, which is a discount compared to Enterprise Products Partners' 9.7 times [5]. - The company plans to increase its distribution by 3% to 5% annually, supported by strong distributable cash flow [6]. Enterprise Products Partners (EPD) - Enterprise Products Partners has a market cap of $70 billion and is currently trading at $32.13, with a dividend yield of 6.72% [7][9]. - The company has consistently raised its distribution for 27 years, maintaining low leverage and a high coverage ratio [7][8]. - Most of its profits come from fee-based activities, providing stability against commodity price fluctuations [7]. - Enterprise has invested aggressively in growth projects, with a reduction in capex planned for 2026, allowing for strong free cash flow and capital allocation flexibility [8][9]. - The stock typically trades at a premium due to its consistency, with a robust yield of 6.7% and a recent distribution growth of nearly 4% [9]. Conclusion - While both companies present attractive investment opportunities, Energy Transfer is highlighted as the preferred choice for 2026 due to its low valuation, high yield, and strong growth potential [11][12].

Core Viewpoint - Enbridge is recognized as a high-quality income stock, having announced a 3% increase in its dividend, marking 31 consecutive years of dividend growth [1][11]. Financial Performance - The company has raised its quarterly dividend payment to CA$0.97 (approximately $0.70), translating to an annual dividend of CA$3.88 ($2.78) [3]. - Enbridge expects to generate distributable cash flow between CA$5.70 and CA$6.10 per share ($4.09-$4.37), reflecting a 3.5% increase from the previous year's guidance [4]. Dividend Sustainability - The anticipated dividend payout ratio is projected to be between 64% and 68%, comfortably within the company's target range of 60%-70% [4]. - Enbridge aims to grow its distributable cash flow per share at a compound annual rate of approximately 3% from 2023 to 2026 [4]. Growth Initiatives - The company plans to invest CA$8 billion ($5.7 billion) in growth capital projects in the upcoming year, including significant projects in its gas transmission segment [6]. - Enbridge is set to deploy about CA$10 billion ($7.2 billion) into growth capital projects next year, fully funded by its post-dividend free cash flow [7]. Long-term Outlook - Enbridge has secured CA$37 billion ($26.5 billion) in growth capital projects with in-service dates extending through 2033, providing strong visibility into its long-term growth [8]. - The company anticipates an acceleration in its distributable cash flow growth rate to around 5% annually after 2026, driven by heavy investments and project completions [9]. Investment Proposition - Enbridge's robust financial profile and growth visibility position it well for continued dividend increases, with expectations of low-to-mid single-digit annual increases in the coming years [10].

Core Viewpoint - Energy demand is on the rise, allowing energy companies to invest in business expansion, with ConocoPhillips and MPLX positioned for sustained growth through the end of the decade [1][13] ConocoPhillips - ConocoPhillips has a diverse portfolio and one of the lowest cost resource positions in the oil and gas sector, enabling significant cash flow generation even at lower oil prices [4] - The company anticipates doubling its free cash flow by 2029, expecting to generate $6 billion in incremental annual free cash flow from longer-cycle projects, assuming oil prices average $70 per barrel [7] - The acquisition of Marathon Oil is projected to yield $1 billion in cost synergies by the end of this year, with an additional $1 billion in cost and margin enhancements expected by the end of next year [5] - ConocoPhillips plans to grow its dividend, currently yielding 3.3%, at a rate within the top 25% of S&P 500 companies, alongside significant stock repurchases [8] MPLX - MPLX operates a diversified midstream business with stable cash flow supported by long-term contracts, offering a distribution yield of 7.6% [9] - The company expects mid-single-digit annual earnings growth, driven by a backlog of secured expansion projects, with new projects entering commercial service annually through 2029 [10] - MPLX has made strategic acquisitions, including a $2.4 billion purchase of Northwind Midstream, which will enhance cash flow and support long-term growth [11] - The MLP has consistently raised its distribution since going public in 2012, achieving over 10% compound annual growth since 2021, indicating strong potential for future returns [12]

Core Viewpoint - Energy Transfer's unit price has declined over 12% this year, underperforming the S&P 500's 10% gain, but the company is expected to recover due to several catalysts [1][10] Financial Performance - In 2024, Energy Transfer achieved a 13% growth in adjusted EBITDA and a 10% increase in distributable cash flow, driven by acquisitions and strong market conditions, resulting in a 42% spike in unit price [3] - For the current year, adjusted EBITDA is expected to be at or below the low end of the $16.1 billion to $16.5 billion guidance range, indicating a growth rate of less than 4% due to lack of acquisitions and cooling market conditions [4] Future Growth Prospects - Energy Transfer plans to invest $5 billion in organic expansion projects this year, with several projects entering commercial service, which is expected to contribute to income growth in 2026 and 2027 [5] - Additional projects are planned through the end of the decade, including the Hugh Brinson phase 2 in 2027 and the Desert Southwest Expansion project in 2029, which could enhance long-term growth potential [6] Acquisition Strategy - Acquisitions have significantly contributed to Energy Transfer's growth, with notable deals since 2019 totaling over $22 billion, leading to a 10% compound annual adjusted EBITDA growth from 2020 to 2024 [7][8] - The company is in a strong financial position, with a leverage ratio in the lower half of its target range, allowing for potential acquisitions to further accelerate growth [8] Impact of Affiliated MLPs - Energy Transfer will benefit from acquisitions made by its affiliated MLPs, such as Sunoco LP's recent acquisitions, which are expected to enhance earnings growth and positively impact Energy Transfer's bottom line [9]

Group 1 - MDU Resources Group, Inc. operates as a holding company for electric and natural gas utilities, as well as a pipeline, WBI Energy, serving approximately 1.2 million customers, which includes about 10% of natural gas and electricity customers [1] - Laura Starks, founder and CEO of Starks Energy Economics, has extensive experience in the energy sector, covering various areas including utilities, independent power producers, and all sectors of oil and natural gas [1]

Core Viewpoint - Energy Transfer is a strong long-term investment opportunity despite its past market-beating performance, driven by its resilient business model, high yield, robust cash flow, and attractive valuation relative to growth potential [2][3][12]. Group 1: Business Resilience and Growth - Energy Transfer operates over 135,000 miles of pipeline across 44 states, providing services for natural gas, natural gas liquids, crude oil, and refined products, and has expanded through acquisitions [3][5]. - The company's revenue model is resilient to volatile oil and gas prices, generating income as long as resources flow through its pipelines, making it appealing for investors seeking stability in the energy sector [4][5]. - Future plans include expanding pipeline operations in the Permian Basin and growing liquefied natural gas exports, which are expected to enhance long-term earnings and cash flow [5]. Group 2: High Yield and Interest Rate Environment - Energy Transfer offers a forward yield of 7.4%, significantly higher than the 10-Year Treasury yield of 4.3%, making it attractive to income investors as interest rates decline [6]. - Lower interest rates may weaken the U.S. dollar, potentially increasing demand for oil and gas, which could benefit Energy Transfer's upstream and downstream customers [7]. Group 3: Cash Flow and Distributions - As a master limited partnership (MLP), Energy Transfer's distributions include a return of capital and are supported by its distributable cash flow (DCF) [8]. - Historical data shows that Energy Transfer's adjusted EBITDA and DCF rebounded post-pandemic, with DCF consistently covering annual distributions [9][10]. Group 4: Valuation and Growth Potential - Analysts project a steady CAGR of 5% for Energy Transfer's adjusted EBITDA from 2024 to 2027, with an enterprise value of $121.8 billion, indicating it is undervalued at less than 8 times this year's adjusted EBITDA [12]. - Insider buying activity suggests confidence in the company's future performance, with insiders purchasing more than six times as many shares as they sold in the past year [12].

Core Viewpoint - Enbridge is positioned to deliver attractive total returns for investors due to its high dividend yield and abundant growth opportunities, making it a top investment choice [2][12]. Financial Performance - In the second quarter, Enbridge generated CA$4.6 billion (US$3.3 billion) in adjusted EBITDA, a 7% increase year-over-year, driven by acquisitions, higher rates, and growing customer demand [4]. - The company expects to achieve adjusted EBITDA growth between 6% and 7.5% for the current year, marking the 20th consecutive year of meeting its annual financial targets [5]. Growth Drivers - Strong volumes on the Mainline system and favorable exchange rates are contributing to Enbridge's high-end growth outlook [6]. - The acquisition of a 10% interest in the Matterhorn Express Pipeline for CA$300 million (US$218 million) is expected to further enhance growth [6]. Project Backlog - Enbridge's backlog of commercially secured projects has reached CA$32 billion (US$23.2 billion), with projects expected to come online through 2029, providing visibility into future earnings and cash flow growth [8]. - Recent project approvals include a CA$100 million expansion of the Texas Eastern Transmission system and a CA$900 million Clear Fork Solar project [7]. Long-term Projections - The company projects compound annual adjusted EBITDA growth of 7% to 9% from 2023 through 2026, followed by an average annual growth rate of around 5% thereafter [9]. - Enbridge forecasts a 3% compound annual growth rate for distributable cash flow through 2026, increasing to approximately 5% annually thereafter [9]. Dividend Growth - Enbridge has a history of increasing its dividend for 30 consecutive years and expects to deliver annual dividend growth of up to 5% in the foreseeable future [10]. - The company's growth plans support expected annual dividend increases, reinforcing its attractiveness as an investment [10]. Future Investment Opportunities - Enbridge is pursuing about CA$50 billion (US$36.2 billion) in future projects, including oil and gas pipeline expansions and renewable energy developments, supported by a strong balance sheet and excess free cash flow [11].

Core Insights - Enbridge reported strong second quarter 2025 results, with non-GAAP EPS of $0.65, significantly exceeding analyst expectations of $0.42, while adjusted earnings revenue fell short of expectations [1][5][10] Financial Performance - Non-GAAP EPS for Q2 2025 was $0.65, a 12.1% increase from $0.58 in Q2 2024 [2] - Adjusted EBITDA reached a record $4.64 billion, up 6.9% from $4.34 billion in the prior year [2][5] - Distributable Cash Flow was $2.90 billion, a 1.4% increase from $2.86 billion year-over-year [2] - Cash provided by operating activities was $3.24 billion, reflecting a 15.3% increase from $2.81 billion in Q2 2024 [2] Business Overview - Enbridge operates a vast energy infrastructure network, including liquids pipelines, gas transmission, gas distribution, and renewable power generation [3] - The company is focusing on expanding its gas utility footprint and diversifying into renewable energy sources like solar and wind [4] Segment Performance - Liquids Pipelines segment reported adjusted EBITDA of $2.34 billion, down $120 million due to lower volumes on certain pipelines [6] - Gas Transmission adjusted EBITDA increased to $1.38 billion, up $302 million year-over-year, aided by favorable rate settlements and acquisitions [7] - Gas Distribution and Storage adjusted EBITDA rose to $5.8 billion from $5.0 billion, benefiting from U.S. utility acquisitions and colder weather [8] - Renewable power generation adjusted EBITDA declined by $27 million, primarily due to lower contributions from European offshore wind facilities [9] Future Outlook - The company reaffirmed its full-year 2025 financial guidance, expecting adjusted EBITDA between $19.4 billion and $20.0 billion [10] - Enbridge has a secured project backlog of approximately $32 billion, providing visibility into future earnings [11] - Management anticipates continued annual adjusted EBITDA growth of 7-9% from 2023 to 2026, with adjusted EPS growth of 4-6% annually [10]

Core Insights - Energy Transfer LP's systematic capital-expenditure strategy significantly enhances its long-term growth outlook through investments in high-return projects across its midstream network [1] - The company is focusing on pipeline expansions, fractionation units, and export terminals to improve asset integration and drive volume growth [2] - Disciplined capital deployment supports long-term cost efficiencies and margin expansion, with a planned investment of $5 billion in 2025 [3][8] - The capital expenditure strategy underpins the ability to generate resilient cash flows and sustain distributions to unitholders [4] Capital Expenditure Strategy - Energy Transfer's capital expenditure enhances midstream operations by expanding pipeline infrastructure, increasing storage capacity, and boosting system reliability [5] - The company invested $955 million in the first quarter of 2025 and plans to invest $5 billion for the full year to strengthen its infrastructure [3][8] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Energy Transfer's earnings per unit indicates an increase of 2.86% for 2025 and 4.26% for 2026 over the past 60 days [7][8] Price Performance - Energy Transfer's trailing 12-month return on equity (ROE) is 11.47%, lower than the industry average of 13.95% [9] - Units of Energy Transfer have risen 2.3% in the past month, contrasting with a decline of 0.5% in the Zacks Oil and Gas - Production Pipeline - MLB industry [10]

Core Viewpoint - Energy Transfer is positioned as a reliable income stock in a volatile market, particularly appealing to income-seeking investors due to its stable dividend payments and resilience against macroeconomic challenges [1][2]. Group 1: Business Model and Stability - Energy Transfer operates as a midstream pipeline company, providing essential services for natural gas, NGLs, crude oil, and refined petroleum products across over 130,000 miles of pipeline in multiple regions [4]. - The company's "toll road" business model allows it to charge fees to upstream and downstream companies, making it less sensitive to fluctuations in oil and gas prices, thus ensuring stable profits [5]. Group 2: Financial Performance - Energy Transfer, structured as a master limited partnership (MLP), reports profits as earnings per unit (EPU) and has seen its EPU and adjusted EBITDA grow at compound annual rates of 8% and 11% from 2014 to 2024, despite various economic challenges [6][7]. - For 2025, the company anticipates a 4% to 6% increase in adjusted EBITDA and a 16% growth in EPU, indicating continued resilience against macroeconomic headwinds [8]. Group 3: Distribution and Valuation - After halving its distribution in 2020, Energy Transfer has since raised its quarterly payout 13 times, currently offering a forward annual distribution of $1.31 per unit, which is well-supported by an estimated EPU of $1.33 for 2025, resulting in a forward yield of 7.6% [9][10]. - The stock trades at 13 times its estimated EPU for 2025, which is considered reasonably valued compared to industry peers, such as Energy Products Partners, which trades at 11 times this year's EPU but offers a lower yield of 6.9% [11]. Group 4: Growth Opportunities - Energy Transfer is positioned to benefit from the growing demand for fossil fuels driven by the expansion of energy-hungry data centers, with plans to increase capacity in the Permian Basin and partnerships to supply natural gas to data centers in Texas [12].