PLAINS ALL AMERICAN PIPELINE LP
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 28, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 28, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-29.
0001070423-24-000008
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-28.
0001070423-25-000006
Item 1A. Risk FactorsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 310 previous paragraphs and 310 current paragraphs.
258 unchanged; 46 reworded; 6 added; 6 removed; 0 previous and 0 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (6)
Current report
•trade tariffs, duties, quotas, inflation, supply disruptions or other factors affecting the commodities and materials we use in our business;
Current report
The continuous and uninterrupted operation of the information and operations technology systems and infrastructure we use (collectively, our “IT systems”), which include a broad array of third party and cloud-based software, technologies, tools and security products, is critical to the operation of our business and essential to our ability to perform day-to-day operations. If we are unable to implement, use and maintain effective IT systems, it could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Current report
The emergence of new technologies (including generative artificial intelligence) could increase any of the foregoing risks or create new risks. We or our counterparties may rely upon such technologies for our operations or security, which could make us more vulnerable to technology failures. Our competitors may more effectively implement such technologies in their businesses, and we may be unable to compete as effectively. New technologies are also subject to intentional misuse by criminals, terrorists or other bad actors.
Current report
Trade tariffs, duties, quotas, inflation, supply disruptions or other factors affecting the commodities and materials we use in our business could have a material and adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Current report
Many of the commodities and materials we use in our business are imported and exported. We export crude oil and NGL from Canada into U.S. markets. To the extent these products become subject to import tariffs in the U.S., it could expose us to costs that we cannot recover from our customers. Existing and future trade tariffs, import duties and quotas could also materially increase our costs of procuring the commodities and materials we use and disrupt the markets for the products we handle, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Current report
The current statutory or regulatory provisions implementing derivatives regulations could be amended, and we cannot predict the impact on our hedging activities of any future amendments. Any such changes could have a material adverse effect on us, our financial condition and our results of operations.
Removed paragraphs (6)
Previous report
•failure to obtain materials or commodities in the quantity and the quality we need, and at commercially acceptable prices, whether due to supply disruptions, inflation, tariffs, quotas or other factors; and
Previous report
We are reliant on the continuous and uninterrupted operation of our various technology systems. User access to our sites and information technology systems are critical elements of our operations, as is cloud security and protection against cyber security incidents. In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store sensitive data in our data centers and on our networks, including intellectual property, proprietary business information, critical operating information and data, information regarding our customers, suppliers, royalty owners and business partners, and personally identifiable information of our employees. We also engage third parties, such as service providers and vendors, who provide a broad array of software, technologies, tools and other products, services and functions that enable us to conduct, monitor and/or protect our business, operations systems and data assets. The secure processing, maintenance and transmission of this information is critical to our operations and business strategy. Despite our security measures, the information technology and infrastructure we rely on may be vulnerable to attacks by third parties, such as hackers, or breached due to human error, malfeasance or other disruptions. Any such breach could compromise our networks and the information stored there could be accessed, publicly disclosed, lost or stolen. Any such access, disclosure or other loss of information could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability under laws that protect the privacy of personal information, regulatory penalties for divulging shipper information, disruption of our operations, damage to our reputation, and loss of confidence in our services, which could adversely affect our business.
Previous report
If we fail to obtain materials or commodities in the quantity and the quality we need, and at commercially acceptable prices, whether due to supply disruptions, inflation, tariffs, quotas or other factors, our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected.
Previous report
In addition, some of the materials used in our business are imported. Existing and future import duties and quotas could materially increase our costs of procuring imported or domestic steel and/or create shortages or difficulties in procuring sufficient quantities of steel meeting our required technical specifications. A material increase in our costs of construction and maintenance or any significant delays in our ability to complete our infrastructure projects could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Previous report
Finally, the Dodd-Frank Act was intended, in part, to reduce the volatility of oil and gas prices, which some legislators attributed to speculative trading in derivatives and commodity instruments related to oil and gas. Our financial results could be adversely affected if a consequence of the Dodd-Frank Act and implementing regulations is lower commodity prices.
Previous report
The full impact of the Dodd-Frank Act and related regulatory requirements upon our business will not be known until the regulations are implemented and the market for derivatives contracts has adjusted. The Dodd-Frank Act and any new regulations could significantly increase the cost of derivative contracts, materially alter the terms of derivative contracts, reduce the availability of derivatives to protect against risks we encounter, reduce our ability to monetize or restructure our existing derivative contracts. If we reduce our use of derivatives as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act and regulations implementing the Dodd-Frank Act, our results of operations may become more volatile and our cash flows may be less predictable. Any of these consequences could have a material adverse effect on us, our financial condition and our results of operations.
Reworded paragraphs (46)
Previous wording
•natural disasters, catastrophes, terrorist attacks (including eco-terrorist attacks), process safety failures, equipment failures or other events, including pipeline or facility accidents and cyber or other attacks on our electronic and computer systems, could interrupt our operations, hinder our ability to fulfil our contractual obligations and/or result in severe personal injury, property damage and environmental damage;
Current wording
•natural disasters, catastrophes, terrorist attacks (including eco-terrorist attacks), process safety failures, equipment failures or other events, including pipeline or facility accidents;
Previous wording
Cybersecurity attacks, data breaches and other disruptions affecting us, or our service providers, could materially and adversely affect our business, operations, reputation and financial results.
Current wording
•information or operations technology failures, including cybersecurity attacks, data breaches and other disruptions affecting us, or our service providers;
Previous wording
•an inability to fully implement or realize expected returns or other anticipated benefits associated with acquisitions, joint venture and joint ownership arrangements, divestitures and other projects;
Current wording
•an inability to fully implement or realize expected returns or other anticipated benefits associated with acquisitions/divestitures, joint venture and joint ownership arrangements, and other projects;
Previous wording
We do not own all of the land on which our pipelines and facilities are located, which could result in disruptions to our operations.
Current wording
•we do not own all of the land on which our pipelines and facilities are located, which could result in disruptions to our operations; and
Previous wording
•potential legislative, judicial or administrative changes or differing interpretations, possibly applied on a retroactive basis;
Current wording
•potential legislative, judicial or administrative changes or differing interpretations, possibly applied on a retroactive basis, or expiration of existing provisions;
Previous wording
•potential audit adjustments to our income tax returns for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, by the IRS or state tax authorities;
Current wording
•potential audit adjustments to our income tax returns by the IRS or state tax authorities;
Previous wording
Also, except with respect to some of our recently constructed long haul pipeline assets, third-party shippers generally do not have long-term contractual commitments to ship crude oil on our pipelines. A decision by a shipper to substantially reduce or cease to ship volumes of crude oil on our pipelines could cause a significant decline in our revenues.
Current wording
Also, except with respect to some of our more recently constructed long haul pipeline assets, third-party shippers generally do not have long-term contractual commitments to ship crude oil on our pipelines. A decision by a shipper to substantially reduce or cease to ship volumes of crude oil on our pipelines could cause a significant decline in our revenues.
Previous wording
•cybersecurity attacks, data breaches and other disruptions affecting us, or our service providers, could materially and adversely affect our business, operations, reputation and financial results;
Current wording
Our business is highly dependent on the use of information and operations technology systems and the unavailability or ineffectiveness of such systems, whether due to cybersecurity attacks, data breaches, human error or other disruptions affecting us, or our service providers, could materially and adversely affect our business, operations, reputation and financial results.
Previous wording
We and certain of our service providers have, from time to time, been subject to cyberattacks. The frequency and magnitude of cyberattacks is expected to increase and attackers are becoming more sophisticated. We may be unable to anticipate, detect or prevent future attacks, particularly as the methodologies used by attackers change frequently or are not recognized until launched, and we may be unable to investigate or remediate incidents because attackers are increasingly using techniques and tools designed to circumvent controls, to avoid detection, and to remove or obfuscate forensic evidence.
Current wording
We and certain of our service providers have, from time to time, been subject to cyberattacks. The frequency and magnitude of cyberattacks is expected to increase and attackers are becoming more sophisticated. Infrastructure assets, including pipelines, may be specifically targeted by certain groups, such as “hacktivists,” state-sponsored groups, criminal organizations or private individuals. We may be unable to anticipate, detect or prevent future attacks, particularly as the methodologies used by attackers change frequently or are not recognized until launched, and we may be unable to investigate or remediate incidents because attackers are increasingly using techniques and tools designed to circumvent controls, to avoid detection, and to remove or obfuscate forensic evidence.
Previous wording
The information technology infrastructure we use is critical to the efficient operation of our business and essential to our ability to perform day-to-day operations. Risks to our information technology systems include: unauthorized or inadvertent extraction of business sensitive, confidential or personal information; denial of access extortion; corruption of information; or disruption of business processes. Breaches of our information technology infrastructure or physical facilities, or other disruptions, could result in damage to our assets, safety incidents, damage to the environment, remediation costs, liability, regulatory enforcement, violation of privacy or securities laws and regulations, the loss of contracts or the inability to fulfil our contractual obligations, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our operations, financial position and results of operations. In addition, we may be required to invest significant additional resources to enhance our information security and controls or to comply with evolving cybersecurity laws or regulations.
Current wording
Any breach or failure of our IT systems, whether due to cyberattacks or other malfeasance, human error, power failures or other disruptions, could result in interruptions to our operations, damage to our assets, safety incidents, damage to the environment and disclosure of sensitive information (including proprietary business information, critical operating information and data, information regarding our customers, suppliers, royalty owners and business partners, and personally identifiable information of our employees). This could in turn cause us to incur significant costs and liabilities, including ransom payments, remediation costs, legal claims, regulatory enforcement actions, violation of privacy or securities laws and regulations and the loss of contracts or the inability to fulfil our contractual obligations. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our operations, financial position and results of operations. In addition, we may be required to invest significant additional resources to enhance our information security and controls or to comply with evolving cybersecurity laws or regulations.
Previous wording
In March 2022, the SEC issued a proposed rule that would mandate extensive disclosure of climate-related risks, including financial impacts, physical and transition risks, climate-related governance and strategy, and GHG emissions, for all U.S.-listed public companies. The SEC missed its self-imposed October 2022 deadline for issuing a final rule and many commentators now expect a final rule to be issued in the first half of 2024. Although the final form and substance of this rule and its requirements are not yet known and its ultimate impact on our business is uncertain, compliance with the proposed rule, if finalized, will result in additional legal, accounting and financial compliance costs. In addition, enhanced climate-related disclosure requirements could influence stakeholders and lenders to restrict or seek more stringent conditions with respect to their investments in certain carbon-intensive sectors.
Current wording
In March 2024, the SEC finalized a set of climate disclosure rules that would mandate extensive disclosure of climate-related risks, including financial impacts, physical and transition risks, climate-related governance and strategy, and GHG emissions, for all U.S.-listed public companies. Several states, including California, have passed or proposed bills requiring similar, or more extensive, climate disclosure rules. These rules have been subject to legal challenges, and in April 2024 the SEC issued a voluntary stay of its rules. Although the outcome of these challenges is not yet known and the ultimate impact of these rules on our business is uncertain, compliance with the rules, if implemented, will result in additional legal, accounting and financial compliance costs. In addition, enhanced climate-related disclosure requirements could influence stakeholders and lenders to restrict or seek more stringent conditions with respect to their investments in certain carbon-intensive sectors.
Previous wording
Joint ventures, joint ownership arrangements and other projects pose unique challenges and we may not be able to fully implement or realize synergies, expected returns or other anticipated benefits associated with such projects.
Current wording
Joint ventures, joint ownership arrangements and other capital projects pose unique challenges and we may not be able to fully implement or realize synergies, expected returns or other anticipated benefits associated with such projects.
Previous wording
We are undertaking, or are participating with various counterparties in, a number of projects that involve the expansion, modification, divestiture or combination of existing assets or the construction of new midstream energy infrastructure assets. Many of these projects involve numerous regulatory, environmental, commercial, economic, weather-related, political and legal uncertainties that are beyond our control, including the following:
Current wording
We currently participate in a number of projects with various counterparties, and may continue to pursue new capital projects in the future. These projects can involve the expansion, modification, divestiture or combination of existing assets or the construction of new midstream energy infrastructure assets and involve numerous regulatory, environmental, commercial, economic, weather-related, political and legal uncertainties that are beyond our control, including the following:
Previous wording
•We may be unable to realize our forecasted commercial, operational or administrative synergies in connection with our joint ventures and joint ownership arrangements, including the Plains Oryx Permian Basin LLC joint venture;
Current wording
•We may be unable to realize our forecasted commercial, operational or administrative synergies in connection with our joint ventures and joint ownership arrangements, including the Permian JV;
Previous wording
As a result of these uncertainties, the anticipated benefits associated with our joint ventures and joint ownership arrangements may not be achieved or could be delayed. In turn, this could negatively impact our cash flow and our ability to make or increase cash distributions to our partners.
Current wording
As a result of these uncertainties, the anticipated benefits associated with our joint ventures, joint ownership arrangements and other capital projects may not be achieved or could be delayed. In turn, this could negatively impact our cash flow and our ability to make or increase cash distributions to our partners.
Previous wording
We have a number of minimum volume commitment contracts that support our pipelines. In addition, certain of the pipelines in which we own a joint venture interest have minimum volume commitment contracts. Pursuant to such contracts, shippers are obligated to pay for a minimum volume of transportation service regardless of whether such volume is actually shipped (typically referred to as a deficiency payment), subject to the receipt of credits that typically expire if not used by a certain date. While such contracts provide greater revenue certainty, if the applicable shipper fails to transport the minimum required volume and is required to make a deficiency payment, under applicable accounting rules, the revenue associated with such deficiency payment may not be recognized until the applicable transportation credit has expired or has been used. Deferred revenue associated with non-performance by shippers under minimum volume contracts could be significant and could adversely affect our profitability and earnings.
Current wording
We have a number of minimum volume commitment contracts that support our pipelines. In addition, certain of the pipelines in which we own a joint venture interest have minimum volume commitment contracts. Pursuant to such contracts, shippers are obligated to pay for a minimum volume of transportation service regardless of whether such volume is actually shipped (typically referred to as a deficiency payment), subject to the receipt of credits that typically expire if not used by a certain date. While such contracts provide greater revenue certainty, if the applicable shipper fails to transport the minimum required volume and is required to make a deficiency payment, under applicable accounting rules, the revenue associated with such deficiency payment may not be recognized until the applicable transportation credit has expired or has been used. Deferred revenue associated with movements by shippers of volumes that are less than minimum volume commitments could be significant and could adversely affect our profitability and earnings.
Previous wording
Generally, it is our policy to establish a margin for crude oil or other products we purchase by selling such products for physical delivery to third-party users, or by entering into a future delivery obligation under derivative contracts. Through these transactions, we seek to maintain a position that is substantially balanced between purchases on the one hand, and sales or future delivery obligations on the other hand. Our policy is not to acquire and hold physical inventory or derivative products for the purpose of speculating on commodity price changes. These policies and practices cannot, however, eliminate all risks. For example, any event that disrupts our anticipated physical supply of crude oil or other products could expose us to risk of loss resulting from price changes. We are also exposed to basis risk when crude oil or other products are purchased against one pricing index or benchmark and sold against a different index or benchmark. We may also face disruptions to futures markets for crude oil, NGL and other petroleum products, which may impair our ability to execute our commercial or hedging strategies. Margin requirements due to spikes or crashes in commodity prices may require us to exit hedge strategies at inopportune times. We are also exposed to some risks that are not hedged, including risks on certain of our inventory, such as linefill, which must be maintained in order to transport crude oil on our pipelines. In an effort to maintain a balanced position, specifically authorized personnel can purchase or sell crude oil, refined products and NGL, up to predefined limits and authorizations. Although this activity is monitored independently by our risk management function, it exposes us to commodity price risks within these limits.
Current wording
Generally, it is our policy to establish a margin for crude oil or other products we purchase by selling such products for physical delivery to third-party users, or by entering into futures or derivative contracts that require future delivery or financial settlement, as applicable. Through these transactions, we seek to maintain a position that is substantially balanced between purchases on the one hand, and sales or future delivery obligations on the other hand. Our policy is not to acquire and hold physical inventory or derivative products for the purpose of speculating on commodity price changes. These policies and practices cannot, however, eliminate all risks. For example, any event that disrupts our anticipated physical supply of crude oil or other products could expose us to risk of loss resulting from price changes. We are also exposed to basis risk when crude oil or other products are purchased against one pricing index or benchmark and sold against a different index or benchmark. We may also face disruptions to futures markets for crude oil, NGL and other petroleum products, which may impair our ability to execute our commercial or hedging strategies. Margin requirements due to spikes or crashes in commodity prices may require us to exit hedge strategies at inopportune times. We are also exposed to some risks that are not hedged, including risks on certain of our inventory, such as linefill, which must be maintained in order to transport crude oil on our pipelines. In an effort to maintain a balanced position, specifically authorized personnel can purchase or sell crude oil and NGL, up to predefined limits and authorizations. Although this activity is monitored independently by our risk management function, it exposes us to commodity price risks within these limits.
Previous wording
While we maintain insurance coverage at levels that we believe to be reasonable and prudent, we can provide no assurance that our current levels of insurance will be sufficient to cover any losses that we have incurred or may incur in the future, whether due to deductibles, coverage challenges or other limitations. In addition, over the last several years, as the scale and scope of our business activities has expanded, the breadth and depth of available insurance markets has contracted. As a result of these factors and other market conditions, as well as the fact that we have experienced several incidents in the past, premiums and deductibles for certain insurance policies have increased substantially. Accordingly, we can give no assurance that we will be able to maintain adequate insurance in the future at rates or on other terms we consider commercially reasonable. In addition, although we believe that we currently maintain adequate insurance coverage, insurance will not cover many types of interruptions or events that might occur and will not cover all risks associated with our operations. In addition, the proceeds of any such insurance may not be paid in a timely manner and may be insufficient if such an event were to occur. The occurrence of a significant event, the consequences of which are either not covered by insurance or not fully insured, or a significant delay in, or denial of, the payment of a major insurance claim, could materially and adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. For a discussion of our Line 901 Incident insurance receivable, please read Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates— Line 901 Incident Insurance Receivable” and Note 18 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Current wording
While we maintain insurance coverage at levels that we believe to be reasonable and prudent, we can provide no assurance that our current levels of insurance will be sufficient to cover any losses that we have incurred or may incur in the future, whether due to deductibles, coverage challenges or other limitations. In addition, over the last several years, as the scale and scope of our business activities has expanded, the breadth and depth of available insurance markets has contracted. As a result of these factors and other market conditions, as well as the fact that we have experienced several incidents in the past, premiums and deductibles for certain insurance policies have increased substantially. Accordingly, we can give no assurance that we will be able to maintain adequate insurance in the future at rates or on other terms we consider commercially reasonable. In addition, although we believe that we currently maintain adequate insurance coverage, insurance will not cover many types of interruptions or losses that might occur and will not cover all risks associated with our operations. In addition, the proceeds of any such insurance may not be paid in a timely manner and may be insufficient if such an event were to occur. The occurrence of a significant event, the consequences of which are either not covered by insurance or not fully insured, or a significant delay in, or denial of, the payment of a major insurance claim, could materially and adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. For a discussion of our Line 901 Incident insurance receivable, please read Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates— Line 901 Incident Insurance Receivable” and Note 18 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, the face value of our consolidated debt outstanding was approximately $7.8 billion (excluding unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs of approximately $41 million), consisting of approximately $7.3 billion face value of long-term debt (including senior notes and finance lease obligations) and approximately $446 million of short-term borrowings. As of December 31, 2023, we had over $2.6 billion of liquidity available, including cash and cash equivalents and available borrowing capacity under our senior unsecured revolving credit facility and our senior secured hedged inventory facility, subject to continued covenant compliance. Lower Adjusted EBITDA could increase our leverage ratios and effectively reduce our ability to incur additional indebtedness.
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, the face value of our consolidated debt outstanding was approximately $7.7 billion (excluding unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs of approximately $42 million), consisting of approximately $7.3 billion face value of long-term debt (including senior notes and finance lease obligations) and approximately $408 million of short-term borrowings. As of December 31, 2024, we had over $2.6 billion of liquidity available, including cash and cash equivalents and available borrowing capacity under our senior unsecured revolving credit facility and our senior secured hedged inventory facility, subject to continued covenant compliance. Lower Adjusted EBITDA could increase our leverage ratios and effectively reduce our ability to incur additional indebtedness.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, the face value of our consolidated debt was approximately $7.8 billion (excluding unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs of approximately $41 million), substantially all of which was at fixed interest rates. Significant increases in interest rates above current levels could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial position due to, among other things:
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, the face value of our consolidated debt was approximately $7.7 billion (excluding unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs of approximately $42 million), substantially all of which was at fixed interest rates. Significant increases in interest rates above current levels could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial position due to, among other things:
Previous wording
•Distributions payable on our Series B preferred units, which accumulate for each distribution period at a percentage of the liquidation preference equal to the applicable three-month Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR), plus a credit spread adjustment of 0.2621%, plus 4.11% per annum.
Current wording
•Distributions payable on our Series B preferred units, which accumulate for each distribution period at a percentage of the liquidation preference equal to the applicable three-month Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR), plus a credit spread adjustment of 0.26161%, plus 4.11% per annum.
Previous wording
At December 31, 2023, we had approximately $15.8 billion of net property and equipment, $976 million of linefill, $2.8 billion of investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting and approximately $1.9 billion of net intangible assets capitalized on our balance sheet. GAAP requires an assessment for impairment in certain circumstances, including when there is an indication that the carrying value of property and equipment may not be recoverable. If we were to determine that any of our property and equipment, linefill, intangibles or equity method investments was impaired, we could be required to take an immediate charge to earnings, which could adversely impact our operating results, with a corresponding reduction of partners’ capital and increase in balance sheet leverage as measured by debt-to-total capitalization. See Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” for additional discussion of our accounting policies and use of estimates associated with impairments.
Current wording
At December 31, 2024, we had approximately $15.4 billion of net property and equipment, $968 million of linefill, $2.8 billion of investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting and approximately $1.7 billion of net intangible assets capitalized on our balance sheet. GAAP requires an assessment for impairment in certain circumstances, including when there is an indication that the carrying value of property and equipment may not be recoverable. If we were to determine that any of our property and equipment, linefill, intangibles or equity method investments was impaired, we could be required to take an immediate charge to earnings, which could adversely impact our operating results, with a corresponding reduction of partners’ capital and increase in balance sheet leverage as measured by debt-to-total capitalization. See Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” for additional discussion of our accounting policies and use of estimates associated with impairments.
Previous wording
Our operations involving the storage, treatment, processing, and transportation of liquid hydrocarbons, including crude oil, NGL and refined products, are subject to stringent federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing the discharge of materials into the environment. Our operations are also subject to laws and regulations relating to protection of the environment, natural resources, operational safety, climate change and related matters. Compliance with these laws and regulations may increase our overall cost of doing business, including our capital costs to construct, maintain and upgrade equipment and facilities. Also, new or additional laws and regulations, new interpretations of existing requirements or changes in our operations could trigger new permitting requirements applicable to our operations, which could result in increased costs or delays of, or denial of rights to conduct, our development programs. The failure to comply with any such laws and regulations could result in the assessment of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties, the imposition of investigatory or remedial obligations or the incurrence of capital expenditures. Any such failure could also result in the imposition of restrictions, delays or cancellations in the permitting or performance of projects, or the issuance of injunctions that may subject us to additional operational requirements and constraints, or claims of damages to property or persons. The laws and regulations applicable to our operations are subject to change and interpretation by the relevant governmental agency, including the possibility that exemptions we currently qualify for may be modified or changed in ways that require us to incur significant additional compliance costs. Our business and operations may also become subject to new or additional laws or regulations. For example, President Biden has made the combat of climate change arising from GHG emissions a priority under his Administration and has issued, and may continue to issue, executive orders or other regulatory initiatives in pursuit of his regulatory agenda that could curtail oil and natural gas production and transportation. Potential examples include laws, rules, executive orders or regulations that limit fracturing of oil and natural gas wells, restrictions on flaring and venting during natural gas production on federal properties, limitations or bans on oil and gas leases on federal lands and offshore waters, increased requirements for construction and permitting of pipeline infrastructure and LNG export facilities, and further restrictions on GHG emissions from oil and gas facilities. Any new laws, executive orders or regulations, or changes to or interpretations of existing laws or regulations, adverse to us could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Current wording
Our operations involving the storage, treatment, processing, and transportation of liquid hydrocarbons, including crude oil, NGL and natural gas, are subject to stringent federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing the discharge of materials into the environment. Our operations are also subject to laws and regulations relating to protection of the environment, natural resources, operational safety, climate change and related matters. Compliance with these laws and regulations may increase our overall cost of doing business, including our capital costs to construct, maintain and upgrade equipment and facilities. Also, new or additional laws and regulations, new interpretations of existing requirements or changes in our operations could trigger new permitting requirements applicable to our operations, which could result in increased costs or delays of, or denial of rights to conduct, our development programs. The failure to comply with any such laws and regulations could result in the assessment of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties, the imposition of investigatory or remedial obligations or the incurrence of capital expenditures, the costs of which may be substantial. Any such failure could also result in the imposition of restrictions, delays or cancellations in the permitting or performance of projects, or the issuance of injunctions that may subject us to additional operational requirements and constraints, or claims of damages to property or persons. The laws and regulations applicable to our operations are subject to change and interpretation by the relevant governmental agency, including the possibility that exemptions we currently qualify for may be modified or changed in ways that require us to incur significant additional compliance costs. Our business and operations may also become subject to new or additional laws or regulations. For example, certain U.S. presidential administrations have pursued regulatory agendas focused on the emission of GHGs or other pollutants that could curtail oil and natural gas production and transportation. Potential examples include laws, rules, executive orders or regulations that limit fracturing of oil and natural gas wells, restrictions on flaring and venting during natural gas production on federal properties, limitations or bans on oil and gas leases on federal lands and offshore waters, increased requirements for construction and permitting of pipeline infrastructure and LNG export facilities, and further restrictions on GHG emissions from oil and gas facilities. Any new laws, executive orders or regulations, or changes to or interpretations of existing laws or regulations, adverse to us could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Previous wording
We have a history of making incremental additions to the miles of pipelines we own, both through acquisitions and investment capital projects. We have also increased our terminal and storage capacity and operate several facilities on or near navigable waters and domestic water supplies. Although we have implemented programs intended to maintain the integrity of our assets (discussed below), as we increase the capacity of our existing assets or acquire additional assets we are at risk for an increase in the number and/or volume of releases of liquid hydrocarbons into the environment. These releases expose us to potentially substantial expense, including clean-up and remediation costs, fines and penalties, and third-party claims for personal injury or property damage related to past or future releases. Some of these expenses could increase by amounts disproportionately higher than the relative increase in pipeline mileage and the increase in revenues associated therewith. Our refined products terminal assets are also subject to significant compliance costs and liabilities. In addition, because of the increased volatility of refined products and their tendency to migrate farther and faster than crude oil when released, releases of refined products into the environment can have a more significant impact than crude oil and require significantly higher expenditures to respond and remediate. The incurrence of such expenses not covered by insurance, indemnity or reserves could materially adversely affect our results of operations.
Current wording
We have a history of making incremental additions to the miles of pipelines we own, both through acquisitions and investment capital projects. We have also increased our terminal and storage capacity and operate several facilities on or near navigable waters and domestic water supplies. Although we have implemented programs intended to maintain the integrity of our assets (discussed below), as we increase the capacity of our existing assets or acquire additional assets we are at risk for an increase in the number and/or volume of releases of liquid hydrocarbons into the environment. These releases expose us to potentially substantial expense, including clean-up and remediation costs, fines and penalties, and third-party claims for personal injury or property damage related to past or future releases. Some of these expenses could increase by amounts disproportionately higher than the relative increase in pipeline mileage and the increase in revenues associated therewith.
Previous wording
Our cross border activities subject us to regulatory matters, including import and export licenses, tariffs, Canadian and U.S. customs and tax issues and toxic substance certifications. Such regulations include the Short Supply Controls of the EAA, the USMCA and the TSCA. Violations of these licensing, tariff and tax reporting requirements could result in the imposition of significant administrative, civil and criminal penalties. Furthermore, Presidential Permits that allow cross-border movements of crude oil may be revoked or terminated at any time.
Current wording
Our cross border activities subject us to regulatory matters, including import and export licenses, trade tariffs, Canadian and U.S. customs and tax issues and toxic substance certifications. Such regulations include the USMCA and the TSCA. Violations of these licensing, trade tariff and tax reporting requirements could result in the imposition of significant administrative, civil and criminal penalties. Furthermore, Presidential Permits that allow cross-border movements of crude oil may be revoked or terminated at any time.
Previous wording
The enactment and implementation of derivatives legislation could have an adverse impact on our ability to use derivative instruments to reduce the effect of commodity price, interest rate and other risks associated with our business and increase the amount of working capital required to conduct these hedging activities.
Current wording
Existing or future derivatives legislation and regulations could have an adverse impact on our ability to use derivative instruments to reduce the effect of commodity price, interest rate and other risks associated with our business and increase the amount of working capital required to conduct these hedging activities.
Previous wording
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) established federal oversight and regulation of derivative markets and entities, such as us, that participate in those markets. The Dodd-Frank Act requires the CFTC and the SEC to promulgate rules and regulations implementing the Dodd-Frank Act. Although the CFTC has finalized certain regulations, others remain to be finalized or implemented and it is not possible at this time to predict when this will be accomplished.
Current wording
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) established federal oversight and regulation of derivative markets and entities, such as us, that participate in those markets. The CFTC has promulgated implementing regulations with respect to the Dodd-Frank Act.
Previous wording
The adoption and implementation of any international, federal, regional or state legislation, executive actions, regulations or other regulatory and policy initiatives that impose more stringent standards for GHG emissions, restrict the areas in which the oil and gas industry may produce crude oil and natural gas or generate GHG emissions, increase scrutiny of environmental permitting or delay such permitting reviews, or require enhanced disclosure of such GHG emission and other climate-related information, could result in reduced demand for crude oil and natural gas, and thus our services, as well as increase our compliance costs. Although it is not possible at this time to predict how legislation or new regulations that may be adopted to address GHG emissions and climate change could impact our business, any such future laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business, demand for our services, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Current wording
The adoption and implementation of any international, federal, regional or state legislation, executive actions, regulations or other regulatory and policy initiatives that impose more stringent standards for GHG emissions, restrict the areas in which the oil and gas industry may produce crude oil and natural gas or generate GHG emissions, increase scrutiny of environmental permitting or delay such permitting reviews, require enhanced disclosure of such GHG emission and other climate-related information, or promote and subsidize lower GHG-emitting, alternative energy products, could result in reduced demand for crude oil and natural gas, and thus our services, as well as increase our compliance costs. Although it is not possible at this time to predict how legislation or new regulations that may be adopted to address GHG emissions and climate change could impact our business, any such future laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business, demand for our services, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Previous wording
Hydraulic fracturing is an important and common practice that is used to stimulate production of hydrocarbons from unconventional geological formations. The process involves the injection of water, sand and chemicals under pressure into the formation to fracture the surrounding rock and stimulate production, and it is typically regulated by state and provincial oil and gas commissions. Hydraulic fracturing continues to be a controversial practice, resulting in increased scrutiny and regulation of the hydraulic fracturing process, including by federal and state agencies and local municipalities. We do not perform hydraulic fracturing, but much of the production that flows on our assets was produced with the benefit of hydraulic fracturing. There have been a variety of legislative and regulatory proposals to prohibit, restrict, or more closely regulate various forms of hydraulic fracturing; for example, the Governor of California issued an order directing the Department of Conservation’s Geologic Energy Management Division to initiate regulatory action to end the issuance of new permits for hydraulic fracturing by early 2024. Moreover, the Biden Administration has pursued policy initiatives that have resulted in temporary suspensions of new oil and gas leasing, more stringent emissions and operating regulations, and increased royalty rates for oil and gas operations on federal lands and waters. These actions, as well as any other legislation, executive orders or regulatory initiatives that curtail hydraulic fracturing or otherwise limit producers’ ability to drill or complete wells could reduce the production of crude oil and natural gas in the United States or Canada, and could thereby result in reduced demand for our transportation, terminalling and storage services as well as our merchant activities.
Current wording
Hydraulic fracturing is an important and common practice that is used to stimulate production of hydrocarbons from unconventional geological formations. The process involves the injection of water, sand and chemicals under pressure into the formation to fracture the surrounding rock and stimulate production, and it is typically regulated by state and provincial oil and gas commissions. Hydraulic fracturing continues to be a controversial practice, resulting in increased scrutiny and regulation of the hydraulic fracturing process, including by federal and state agencies and local municipalities. We do not perform hydraulic fracturing, but much of the production that flows on our assets was produced with the benefit of hydraulic fracturing. There have been a variety of legislative and regulatory proposals to prohibit, restrict, or more closely regulate various forms of hydraulic fracturing; for example, California’s Department of Conservation’s Geologic Energy Management Division issued a final regulatory statewide ban on hydraulic fracturing in October 2024. Other states require the disclosure of certain chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing and have conducted investigations into connections between hydraulic fracturing and induced seismicity. These actions, as well as any other legislation, executive orders or regulatory initiatives that curtail hydraulic fracturing or otherwise limit producers’ ability to drill or complete wells could reduce the production of crude oil and natural gas in the United States or Canada, and could thereby result in reduced demand for our transportation, terminalling and storage services as well as our merchant activities.
Previous wording
In the United States, the Endangered Species Act (“ESA”) and comparable state laws were established to protect endangered and threatened species. Under the ESA, if a species is listed as threatened or endangered, restrictions may be imposed on activities that have the potential to adversely affect that species’ habitat. Similar protections are given to migratory birds under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Canada’s Species at Risk Act, and analogous provincial laws and regulations. Some of our operations are conducted in areas where protected species or their habitats are known to exist, and from time to time our development plans have been impacted in these areas. We may be obligated to develop and implement plans to avoid potential adverse effects to protected species and their habitats, and we may be delayed, restricted or prohibited from conducting operations in certain locations or during certain seasons, such as breeding and nesting seasons, when our operations could have an adverse effect on the species. Additionally, the designation of previously unprotected species or the re-designation of under-protected species as threatened or endangered in areas where we or our customers conduct operations could cause us to incur increased costs arising from species protection measures or could result in delays, restrictions or prohibitions on our customers’ development and production activities that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
Current wording
In the United States, the ESA and comparable state laws were established to protect endangered and threatened species. Under the ESA, if a species is listed as threatened or endangered, restrictions may be imposed on activities that have the potential to adversely affect that species’ habitat. Similar protections are given to migratory birds under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Canada’s Species at Risk Act, and analogous provincial laws and regulations. Some of our operations are conducted in areas where protected species or their habitats are known to exist, and from time to time our development plans have been impacted in these areas. We may be obligated to develop and implement plans to avoid potential adverse effects to protected species and their habitats, and we may be delayed, restricted or prohibited from conducting operations in certain locations or during certain seasons, such as breeding and nesting seasons, when our operations could have an adverse effect on the species. Additionally, the designation of previously unprotected species or the re-designation of under-protected species as threatened or endangered in areas where we or our customers conduct operations could cause us to incur increased costs arising from species protection measures or could result in delays, restrictions or prohibitions on our customers’ development and production activities that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
Previous wording
Our leverage is significant in relation to our partners’ capital. At December 31, 2023, the face value of our total outstanding long-term debt was approximately $7.3 billion, and the face value of our total outstanding short-term debt was approximately $446 million. We will be prohibited from making cash distributions during an event of default under any of our indebtedness. Various limitations in our credit facilities and other debt instruments may reduce our ability to incur additional debt, to engage in some transactions and to capitalize on business opportunities. Any subsequent refinancing of our current indebtedness or any new indebtedness could have similar or greater restrictions.
Current wording
Our leverage is significant in relation to our partners’ capital. At December 31, 2024, the face value of our total outstanding long-term debt was approximately $7.3 billion, and the face value of our total outstanding short-term debt was approximately $408 million. We will be prohibited from making cash distributions during an event of default under any of our indebtedness. Various limitations in our credit facilities and other debt instruments may reduce our ability to incur additional debt, to engage in some transactions and to capitalize on business opportunities. Any subsequent refinancing of our current indebtedness or any new indebtedness could have similar or greater restrictions.
Previous wording
Our leverage could have important consequences to investors in our debt securities. We will require substantial cash flow to meet our principal and interest obligations with respect to our debt securities and our other consolidated indebtedness. Our ability to make scheduled payments, to refinance our obligations with respect to our indebtedness or our ability to obtain additional financing in the future will depend on our financial and operating performance, which, in turn, is subject to prevailing economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors. We believe that we will have sufficient cash flow from operations and available borrowings under our bank credit facilities to service our indebtedness, although the principal amount of our debt securities will likely need to be refinanced at maturity in whole or in part. A significant downturn in the hydrocarbon industry or other development adversely affecting our cash flow could materially impair our ability to service our indebtedness. If our cash flow and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we may be forced to refinance all or a portion of our debt or sell assets. We can give no assurance that we would be able to refinance our existing indebtedness or sell assets on terms that are commercially reasonable.
Current wording
Our leverage could have important consequences to investors in our debt securities. We will require substantial cash flow to meet our principal and interest obligations with respect to our debt securities and our other consolidated indebtedness. Our ability to make scheduled payments, to refinance our obligations with respect to our indebtedness or our ability to obtain additional financing in the future will depend on our financial and operating performance, which, in turn, is subject to prevailing economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors. We believe that we will have sufficient cash flow from operations and available borrowings under our bank credit facilities to service our indebtedness, although the principal amount of our debt securities will likely need to be refinanced at or prior to maturity in whole or in part. A significant downturn in the hydrocarbon industry or other development adversely affecting our cash flow could materially impair our ability to service our indebtedness. If our cash flow and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we may be forced to refinance all or a portion of our debt or sell assets. We can give no assurance that we would be able to refinance our existing indebtedness or sell assets on terms that are commercially reasonable.
Previous wording
Unlike a corporation, our partnership agreement requires us to distribute, on a quarterly basis, 100% of our available cash to our unitholders of record. Available cash is generally defined as all of our cash and cash equivalents on hand at the end of each quarter less reserves established in the discretion of our general partner for future requirements. Our available cash also includes cash on hand resulting from borrowings made after the end of the quarter. Our general partner will determine the amount and timing of such distributions and has broad discretion to establish and make additions to our reserves or the reserves of our operating partnerships in amounts the general partner determines in its reasonable discretion to be necessary or appropriate:
Current wording
Unlike a corporation, our partnership agreement requires us to distribute, on a quarterly basis, 100% of our available cash to our unitholders of record. Available cash is generally defined as all of our cash receipts and cash equivalents on hand at the end of each quarter less reserves established in the discretion of our general partner for future requirements. Our available cash also includes cash on hand resulting from borrowings made after the end of the quarter. Our general partner will determine the amount and timing of such distributions and has broad discretion to establish and make additions to our reserves or the reserves of our operating partnerships in amounts the general partner determines in its reasonable discretion to be necessary or appropriate:
Previous wording
•to provide funds to make payments on the preferred units; or
Current wording
•to provide funds to make payments on the preferred unitholders; or
Previous wording
Our tax treatment depends on our status as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes and not being subject to a material amount of entity-level taxation. If the IRS were to treat us as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or we become subject to entity-level taxation for state or foreign tax purposes, our cash available for distributions to our unitholders would be substantially reduced.
Current wording
Our tax treatment depends on our status as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes and not being subject to a material amount of entity-level taxation by individual states or foreign jurisdictions. If the IRS were to treat us as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or if we become subject to a material amount of entity-level or other form of taxation for state or foreign tax purposes, our cash available for distributions to our unitholders would be substantially reduced.
Previous wording
The anticipated after-tax economic benefit of an investment in our units depends largely on our being treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. A publicly traded partnership such as us may be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes unless it satisfies a “qualifying income” requirement, as defined in Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Based upon our current operations and current Treasury Regulations, we believe we satisfy the qualifying income requirement. However, no ruling has been or will be requested regarding our treatment as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Failing to meet the qualifying income requirement or a change in current law could cause us to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or otherwise subject us to taxation as an entity.
Current wording
The anticipated after-tax economic benefit of an investment in our units depends largely on our being treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. A publicly traded partnership such as us may be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes unless it satisfies a “qualifying income” requirement, as defined in Section 7704 of the Code. Based upon our current operations and current U.S. Treasury Regulations, we believe we satisfy the qualifying income requirement. However, no ruling has been or will be requested regarding our treatment as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Failing to meet the qualifying income requirement or a change in current law could cause us to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or otherwise subject us to taxation as an entity.
Previous wording
In addition, several states have been evaluating ways to subject partnerships to entity-level taxation through the imposition of state income, franchise and other forms of taxation. For example, we are subject to entity-level tax on the portion of our income apportioned to Texas. Imposition of any similar taxes or additional federal or foreign taxes on us will reduce the cash available for distribution to our unitholders.
Current wording
In addition, several states impose and others have been evaluating ways to subject partnerships to entity-level taxation through the imposition of state income, franchise and other forms of taxation. For example, we are subject to entity-level tax on the portion of our income apportioned to Texas. Imposition of any similar taxes by individual states or additional federal or foreign taxes on us could substantially reduce our cash available for distribution to our unitholders.
Previous wording
The present U.S. federal income tax treatment of publicly traded partnerships, including us, or an investment in our units may be modified by administrative, legislative or judicial changes or differing interpretations at any time. Members of Congress have proposed and considered substantive changes to the existing U.S. federal income tax laws that would affect publicly traded partnerships, including proposals that would eliminate our ability to qualify for partnership tax treatment. Further, while unitholders of publicly traded partnerships are, subject to certain limitations, entitled to a deduction equal to 20% of their allocable share of a publicly traded partnership’s “qualified business income,” this deduction is scheduled to expire with respect to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025.
Current wording
The present U.S. federal income tax treatment of publicly traded partnerships, including us, or an investment in our units may be modified by administrative, legislative or judicial changes or differing interpretations at any time. Members of Congress have proposed and considered substantive changes to the existing U.S. federal income tax laws that would affect publicly traded partnerships, including proposals that would eliminate our ability to qualify for partnership tax treatment. Recent proposals have provided for the expansion of the qualifying income exception for publicly traded partnerships in certain circumstances and other proposals have provided for the total elimination of the qualifying income exception upon which we rely for our partnership tax treatment. Further, while unitholders of publicly traded partnerships are, subject to certain limitations, entitled to a deduction equal to 20% of their allocable share of a publicly traded partnership’s “qualified business income,” this deduction is scheduled to expire with respect to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Moreover, the transferee of an interest in a partnership that is engaged in a U.S. trade or business is generally required to withhold 10% of the amount realized by the transferor unless the transferor certifies that it is not a foreign person. While the determination of a partner’s “amount realized” generally includes any decrease of a partner’s share of the partnership’s liabilities, the Treasury regulations provide that the “amount realized” on a transfer of an interest in a publicly traded partnership will generally be the amount of gross proceeds paid to the broker effecting the applicable transfer on behalf of the transferor, and thus will be determined without regard to any decrease in that partner’s share of a publicly traded partnership’s liabilities. For a transfer of interest in a publicly traded partnership that is effected through a broker on or after January 1, 2023, the obligation to withhold is imposed on the transferor’s broker. Prospective foreign unitholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the impact of these rules on an investment in our units.
Current wording
Moreover, the transferee of an interest in a partnership that is engaged in a U.S. trade or business is generally required to withhold 10% of the amount realized by the transferor unless the transferor certifies that it is not a foreign person. While the determination of a partner’s “amount realized” generally includes any decrease of a partner’s share of the partnership’s liabilities, the Treasury regulations provide that the “amount realized” on a transfer of an interest in a publicly traded partnership will generally be the amount of gross proceeds paid to the broker effecting the applicable transfer on behalf of the transferor, and thus will be determined without regard to any decrease in that partner’s share of a publicly traded partnership’s liabilities. For a transfer of interest in a publicly traded partnership that is effected through a broker, the obligation to withhold is imposed on the transferor’s broker. Current and prospective foreign unitholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the impact of these rules on an investment in our units.
Previous wording
If the IRS makes audit adjustments to our income tax returns for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, it (and some states) may assess and collect any taxes (including any applicable penalties and interest) resulting from such audit adjustments directly from us, in which case our cash available for distribution to our unitholders might be substantially reduced.
Current wording
If the IRS makes audit adjustments to our income tax returns, it (and some states) may assess and collect any taxes (including any applicable penalties and interest) resulting from such audit adjustments directly from us, in which case our cash available for distribution to our unitholders might be substantially reduced.
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