Investing Topics: Mergers & Acquisitions

Breitburn Energy Partners LP's recently proposed acquisition of QR Energy LP demonstrates that the search for scale is alive and well among upstream MLPs, as private-equity buyers ratchet up the competition for asset acquisitions.

Three US electric utilities are now investing in LNG exports through new acquisitions. However one of these is uniquely positioned to bring new LNG export capacity on line and open North American gas to the world.

At last count, more than half our Portfolio holdings traded above my buy targets. These are all great companies that will continue to build wealth for investors, but now is the time for discipline.

With valuations elevated in the utility sector, investors should pay close attention to the risks and opportunities created by four key themes.

Wisconsin Energy's $8.93 billion acquisition of Itegrys Energy marks the latest mega-deal in the energy patch. We scrutinize the merger and explain why this won't be the last big transaction in the utility sector. 

Exelon Corp’s (NYSE: EXC) $6.9 billion all-cash takeover offer for Pepco Holdings (NYSE: POM) has gotten a mixed reception from investors, but the deal pushes the acquirer closer to resuming dividend growth.