Research report

Midstream makeover

How a simplified structure has opened new opportunities for investors

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April 11, 2019 | 6 minute read

Many energy- and income-focused investors have long turned to master limited partnerships (MLPs) for their attractive yields and tax-advantaged structure. The fall in oil prices from 2014–2016, however, ushered in a period of corporate and organizational restructurings that we believe fundamentally altered the midstream sector and how investors can best access the opportunity within energy infrastructure.

While MLPs remain an integral part of the midstream landscape, they represent less than half of the available investment universe compared to two-thirds of the sector just three years ago.¹ C-corporations now comprise the majority of midstream assets.

How do these changes impact investors?

The FS Investments Research team provides perspective on how the evolution of the midstream sector has created both challenges and investment opportunities for investors in a report that:

  • Offers a refresh on the MLP structure and growth of the midstream sector
  • Articulates the impact of the 2014–2016 commodity cycle on the midstream sector
  • Explains how investors can best position their portfolios to take advantage of these changes

Midstream composition by structure type, 2015 vs. 2018¹

  • Bloomberg, Alerian, as of December 31, 2018.

This information is educational in nature and does not constitute a financial promotion, investment advice or an inducement or incitement to participate in any product, offering or investment. FS Investments is not adopting, making a recommendation for or endorsing any investment strategy or particular security. All views, opinions and positions expressed herein are that of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of FS Investments. All opinions are subject to change without notice, and you should always obtain current information and perform due diligence before participating in any investment. FS Investments does not provide legal or tax advice and the information herein should not be considered legal or tax advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change, which can materially impact any investment result. FS Investments cannot guarantee that the information herein is accurate, complete, or timely. FS Investments makes no warranties with regard to such information or results obtained by its use, and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or any tax position taken in reliance on, such information.

Any projections, forecasts and estimates contained herein are based upon certain assumptions that the author considers reasonable. Projections are necessarily speculative in nature, and it can be expected that some or all of the assumptions underlying the projections will not materialize or will vary significantly from actual results. The inclusion of projections herein should not be regarded as a representation or guarantee regarding the reliability, accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, and neither FS Investments nor the author are under any obligation to update or keep current such information.

All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest.

Robert Hoffman, CFA

Managing Director, Credit Wealth Solutions

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