Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. and Plains GP Holdings have made significant acquisitions, strengthening their presence in the energy sector. Plains recently acquired Ironwood Midstream Energy's Eagle Ford Basin gathering system for about $475 million, Medallion Midstream’s Delaware Basin crude oil gathering business for around $160 million, and the remaining 50% interest in Midway Pipeline LLC for approximately $90 million. These strategic moves aim to bolster the company's crude oil footprint and enhance shareholder returns.
Plains is also optimizing its capital structure by agreeing to buy back 18% of its outstanding Series A Preferred Units for approximately $330 million. This redeployment of capital is expected to reduce the company's leverage ratio to the lower end of its target range of 3.25x to 3.75x. Additionally, Plains has increased its quarterly distribution by 20%, raising it to $0.38 per unit, signaling a commitment to returning capital to its unitholders.
In its financial projections, Plains anticipates an Adjusted Free Cash Flow of $1.17 billion for 2024 with a leverage ratio of 3.0x, according to their recent reports. Looking ahead to 2025, the company forecasts an Adjusted EBITDA in the range of $2.80 to $2.95 billion and aims to generate approximately $1.15 billion in Adjusted Free Cash Flow post-acquisitions. Reuters reported that these initiatives highlight Plains' focus on consolidating its financial health while expanding its operational capabilities.