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Why Enterprise Is Poised for Higher Discretionary Cash Flows in 2026
ZACKS· 2025-12-18 19:07
Core Insights - Enterprise Products Partners LP (EPD) is a significant player in the midstream energy sector, generating consistent fee-based income from its extensive pipeline and storage assets, which span over 50,000 miles [1] - EPD anticipates 2026 to be a pivotal year for free cash flows, following a four-year investment cycle aimed at expanding its midstream network, particularly in the Permian and Haynesville basins [2][6] - The partnership expects a reduction in organic growth capital expenditures to approximately $2-$2.5 billion annually, which is projected to enhance discretionary free cash flows for debt retirement and unit buybacks [2][6] Company Comparisons - Kinder Morgan Inc. (KMI) operates the largest natural gas pipeline system in the U.S., with about 58,500 miles of major pipelines and 7,500 miles of gathering lines, generating stable fee-based earnings [3] - The Williams Companies, Inc. (WMB) operates over 33,000 miles of pipeline, including major systems like Transco and Northwest Pipeline, and is expected to benefit from increasing natural gas demand, similar to EPD and KMI [4] Financial Performance - EPD's units have increased by 5.2% over the past year, contrasting with a 7.3% decline in the broader industry composite [5] - EPD's current valuation shows a trailing 12-month enterprise value to EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) ratio of 10.48X, slightly below the industry average of 10.52X [8] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for EPD's 2025 earnings remains unchanged over the past week, with projections of $2.62 per unit for the current year and $2.85 for the next year [9][10]