MPLX
This is the top holding for the Alerian MLP energy exchange-traded fund. MPLX L.P. (NYSE: MPLX) is primarily engaged in crude oil and refined products transportation and terminaling in the U.S. Midwest and Gulf Coast regions, as well as natural gas gathering and processing in the northeast from its prior acquisition of MarkWest Energy in 2015. MPLX was formed by independent U.S. refiner Marathon Petroleum.
The company’s assets include a network of crude oil and refined product pipelines; an inland marine business; light-product terminals; storage caverns; refinery tanks, docks, loading racks and associated piping; and crude and light-product marine terminals. It also owns crude oil and natural gas gathering systems and pipelines, as well as natural gas and NGL processing and fractionation facilities in key U.S. supply basins.
Investors receive an 8.71% distribution. The price target for MPLX stock at UBS is $40. The $37.33 consensus target is closer to Tuesday’s closing price of $32.02.
Sunoco
This well-known company could be the best buy for investors who are more conservative. Sunoco L.P. (NYSE: SUN) distributes and retails motor fuels in the United States. The company operates in two segments.
The Fuel Distribution and Marketing segment purchases motor fuel from independent refiners and oil companies and supplies it to independently operated dealer stations, distributors and other consumers of motor fuel, and partnership operated stations, as well as to commission agent locations.
The All Other segment operates retail stores that offer motor fuel, merchandise, foodservice and other services that include credit card processing, car washes, lottery, automated teller machines, money orders, prepaid phone cards and wireless services. It also leases and subleases real estate properties and operates terminal facilities on the Hawaiian Islands. As of December 31, 2020, the company operated 78 retail stores in Hawaii and New Jersey.
Investors receive a 7.86% distribution. Raymond James has set a $48 target price. The consensus target is $45.00. Tuesday’s final trade for Sunoco stock was reported at $41.28 a share.
These seven top stocks offer reasonably safe and reliable distributions, plus the companies are major players in the energy infrastructure arena. Those looking for solid total return potential can do well owning these MLP leaders. It is important to note that MLP distributions may contain return of principal. Those looking to avoid the pesky K-1s can always purchase shares in the ALPS Alerian MLP exchange-traded fund, as investors receive a form 1099 instead.
Originally posted at 24/7 Wall St.
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