GLOBAL PARTNERS LP

Previous wording

We are currently involved in two joint ventures. We may not always be in complete alignment with our unaffiliated joint venture counterparties due to, for example, conflicting strategic objectives, change in control, change in market conditions or applicable laws, or other events. We may disagree on governance matters with respect to the respective joint venture or the jointly-owned assets and may be outvoted by our respective joint venture counterparty. Our joint venture arrangements may also require us to expend additional resources that could otherwise be directed to other areas of our business. As a result of such challenges, the anticipated benefits associated with our joint ventures may not be achieved and could negatively impact our results of operations.

Current wording

We are currently involved in two joint ventures accounted for using the equity method. We may not always be in complete alignment with our unaffiliated joint venture counterparties due to, for example, conflicting strategic objectives, change in control, change in market conditions or applicable laws, or other events. We may disagree on governance matters with respect to the respective joint venture or the jointly-owned assets and may be outvoted by our respective joint venture counterparty. Our joint venture arrangements may also require us to expend additional resources that could otherwise be directed to other areas of our business. As a result of such challenges, the anticipated benefits associated with our joint ventures may not be achieved and could negatively impact our results of operations.

Previous wording

Certain of our operating costs and expenses are fixed and do not vary with the volumes we store and distribute. Should we experience a reduction in our volumes stored, distributed and sold and in our logistics activities, such costs and expenses may not decrease ratably or at all. As a result, we may experience declines in our margin if volumes decrease.

Current wording

Certain of our operating costs and expenses are fixed and do not vary with the volumes we store and distribute. Should we experience a reduction in our volumes stored, distributed and sold and in our logistics activities, such costs and expenses may not decrease ratably or at all. As a result, we may experience declines in our margins if volumes decrease.

Previous wording

Historical prices for certain products we sell have been volatile. General political conditions, acts of war such as the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, terrorism and instability in oil producing regions, particularly in the United States, Canada, Middle East, Russia, Africa and South America, could significantly impact crude oil supplies and crude oil and refined petroleum product costs. Significant increases and volatility in wholesale gasoline costs could result in significant increases in the retail price of motor fuel products and in lower margins per gallon. Increases in the retail price of motor fuel products could impact consumer demand for motor fuel. This volatility makes it extremely difficult to predict the impact future wholesale cost fluctuations will have on our operating results and financial condition. Dramatic increases in crude oil prices squeeze fuel margins because fuel costs typically increase faster than these increased costs can be passed along to customers. Higher fuel prices trigger higher credit card expenses, because credit card fees are calculated as a percentage of the transaction amount, not as a percentage of gallons sold. A significant change in any of these factors could materially impact our customers’ needs, motor fuel gallon volumes, gross profit and overall customer traffic, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Current wording

Prices for certain products we sell have historically been volatile. General political conditions, acts of war such as the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, terrorism and instability in oil producing regions, particularly in the United States, Canada, Middle East, Russia, Africa and South America, could significantly impact crude oil supplies and crude oil and refined petroleum product costs. Significant increases and volatility in wholesale gasoline costs could result in significant increases in the retail price of motor fuel products and in lower margins per gallon. Increases in the retail price of motor fuel products could impact consumer demand for motor fuel. This volatility makes it extremely difficult to predict the impact future wholesale cost fluctuations will have on our operating results and financial condition. Dramatic increases in crude oil prices squeeze fuel margins because fuel costs typically increase faster than these increased costs can be passed along to customers. Higher fuel prices trigger higher credit card expenses, because credit card fees are calculated as a percentage of the transaction amount, not as a percentage of gallons sold. A significant change in any of these factors could materially impact our customers’ needs, motor fuel gallon volumes, gross profit and overall customer traffic, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Previous wording

A decline in demand for the products we sell could result in a decrease in the utilization of our transportation assets. Certain costs associated with our contractual obligations for certain transportation assets are fixed and do not vary with volumes transported. Should we experience a reduction in our logistics activities, costs associated with our contractual obligations for related transportation assets may not decrease ratably or at all. As a result, our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders may be negatively impacted.

Current wording

A decline in demand for the products we sell could result in a decrease in the utilization of our transportation assets. Certain costs associated with our contractual obligations for certain transportation assets, such as barges and railcars, are fixed and do not vary with volumes transported. Should we experience a reduction in our logistics activities, costs associated with our contractual obligations for related transportation assets may not decrease ratably or at all. As a result, our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders may be negatively impacted.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, adjusted to give effect to the issuance of the 2032 Notes and the use of proceeds therefrom in January 2024, our total debt, including amounts outstanding under our credit agreement and senior notes, was approximately $1.59 billion. Effective February 8, 2024, we have the ability to incur additional debt, including the capacity to borrow up to $1.55 billion under our credit agreement, subject to limitations in our credit agreement. Our level of indebtedness could have important consequences to us, including the following:

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our total debt, including amounts outstanding under our credit agreement and senior notes, was approximately $1.58 billion. We have the ability to incur additional debt, including the capacity to borrow up to $1.55 billion under our credit agreement, subject to limitations in our credit agreement. Our level of indebtedness could have important consequences to us, including the following:

Previous wording

Our ability to comply with the covenants and restrictions and limitations contained in our credit agreement and indentures may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If market or other economic conditions deteriorate, our ability to comply with these covenants and restrictions may be impaired. If we violate any of the restrictions, covenants, ratios or tests in our credit agreement or indentures, a significant portion of our indebtedness may become immediately due and payable, and our lenders’ commitment to make further loans to us may terminate. We might not have, or be able to obtain, sufficient funds to make

Current wording

Our ability to comply with the covenants and restrictions and limitations contained in our credit agreement and indentures may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If market or other economic conditions deteriorate, our ability to comply with these covenants and restrictions may be impaired. If we violate any of the restrictions, covenants, ratios or tests in our credit agreement or indentures, a significant portion of our indebtedness may become immediately due and payable, and our lenders’ commitment to make further loans to us may terminate. We might not have, or be able to obtain, sufficient funds to make these accelerated payments. In addition, our obligations under our credit agreement are secured by substantially all of our assets, and if we are unable to repay our indebtedness under our credit agreement, the lenders could seek to foreclose on such assets.

Previous wording

Any subsequent refinancing of our current debt or any new debt could have similar restrictions. For more information regarding our credit agreement and indentures, please read Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Credit Agreement” and Note 9 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Current wording

Any subsequent refinancing of our current debt or any new debt could have similar restrictions. For more information regarding our credit agreement and indentures, please read Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and

Previous wording

risks, the application of such requirements to other market participants, such as swap dealers, may change the cost and availability of the swaps that we use for hedging. If any of our swaps do not qualify for the commercial end-user exception, posting of initial or variation margin could impact our liquidity and reduce cash available for capital expenditures, therefore reducing our ability to execute hedges to reduce risk and protect cash flows.

Current wording

In addition, the Act requires that regulators establish margin rules for uncleared swaps. Banking regulators and the CFTC have adopted final rules establishing minimum margin requirements for uncleared swaps. Although we expect to qualify for the end-user exception from such margin requirements for swaps entered into to hedge our commercial risks, the application of such requirements to other market participants, such as swap dealers, may change the cost and availability of the swaps that we use for hedging. If any of our swaps do not qualify for the commercial end-user exception, posting of initial or variation margin could impact our liquidity and reduce cash available for capital expenditures, therefore reducing our ability to execute hedges to reduce risk and protect cash flows.

Previous wording

The full impact of the Act and related regulatory requirements upon our businesses will not be known until all of the related regulations are implemented. The Act and any new regulations could significantly increase the cost of derivative contracts (including from swap recordkeeping and reporting requirements and through requirements to post collateral which could adversely affect our available liquidity), materially alter the terms of derivative contracts, reduce the availability of some derivatives to protect against risks we encounter and reduce our ability to monetize or restructure our existing derivative contracts. If we reduce our use of derivatives as a result of the Act and regulations, our results of operations may become more volatile and our cash flows may be less predictable, which could adversely affect our ability to plan for and fund capital expenditures. Any of these consequences could have material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Current wording

the availability of some derivatives to protect against risks we encounter and reduce our ability to monetize or restructure our existing derivative contracts. If we reduce our use of derivatives as a result of the Act and regulations, our results of operations may become more volatile and our cash flows may be less predictable, which could adversely affect our ability to plan for and fund capital expenditures. Any of these consequences could have material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Previous wording

Additionally, our access to trade credit support could diminish and/or become more expensive. Our ability to continue to receive sufficient trade credit on commercially acceptable terms could be adversely affected by fluctuations in prices of petroleum products, renewable fuels and other products we sell or disruptions in the credit markets or for any other reason. Any of these events could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Current wording

Additionally, our access to trade credit support could diminish and/or become more expensive. Our ability to continue to receive sufficient trade credit on commercially acceptable terms could be adversely affected by fluctuations in prices of petroleum products, renewable fuels and other products we sell or disruptions in the credit markets or for any

Previous wording

Technological advances and alternative fuel sources, such as electric, hybrid, battery powered, hydrogen or other alternative fuel-powered motor vehicles, may adversely affect the demand for gasoline. We could face additional competition from alternative energy sources as a result of future government-mandated controls or regulations which promote the use of alternative fuel sources. A number of new legal incentives and regulatory requirements, and executive initiatives, including various government subsidies including the extension of certain tax credits for renewable energy, have made these alternative forms of energy more competitive. Changing consumer preferences or driving habits could lead to new forms of fueling destinations or potentially fewer customer visits to our sites, resulting in a decrease in gasoline sales and/or sales of food, sundries and other on-site services. In addition, higher prices and inflation in general could reduce the demand for gasoline and the products and services we offer at our convenience stores and adversely impact our sales. A reduction in our sales could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Current wording

Technological advances and alternative fuel sources, such as electric, hybrid, battery powered, hydrogen or other alternative fuel-powered motor vehicles, may adversely affect the demand for gasoline. We could face additional competition from alternative energy sources as a result of future government-mandated controls or regulations which promote the use of alternative fuel sources. A number of new legal incentives and regulatory requirements, and executive initiatives, including various government subsidies including the extension of certain tax credits for renewable energy, have made these alternative forms of energy more competitive. Changing consumer preferences or driving habits could lead to new forms of fueling destinations or potentially fewer customer visits to our sites, resulting in a decrease in gasoline sales and/or sales of food, sundries and other on-site services. In addition, higher prices, including as result of tariffs and other controls on imports or exports of goods, and inflation in general could reduce the demand for gasoline and the products and services we offer at our convenience stores and adversely impact our sales. A reduction in our sales could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Previous wording

Increased conservation and technological advances have adversely affected the demand for home heating oil and residual oil. Consumption of residual oil has steadily declined over the last several decades. We could face additional competition from alternative energy sources as a result of future government-mandated controls or regulations further promoting the use of cleaner fuels. End users who are dual-fuel users have the ability to switch between residual oil and natural gas. Other end users may elect to convert to natural gas, electric heat pumps or other alternative fuels. During a period of increasing residual oil prices relative to the prices of natural gas, dual-fuel customers may switch and other end users may convert to natural gas. During periods of increasing home heating oil prices relative to the price of natural gas, residential users of home heating oil may also convert to natural gas, electric heat pumps or other alternative fuels. As described above, such switching or conversion could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Current wording

Increased conservation and technological advances have adversely affected the demand for home heating oil and residual oil. Consumption of residual oil has steadily declined over the last several decades. We could face additional competition from alternative energy sources as a result of future government-mandated controls or regulations further promoting the use of cleaner fuels or changing consumer preferences. End users who are dual-fuel users have the ability to switch between residual oil and natural gas. Other end users may elect to convert to natural gas, electric heat pumps or other alternative fuels. During a period of increasing residual oil prices relative to the prices of natural gas, dual-fuel customers may switch and other end users may convert to natural gas. During periods of increasing home heating oil prices relative to the price of natural gas, residential users of home heating oil may also convert to natural gas, electric heat pumps or other alternative fuels. As described above, such switching or conversion could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Previous wording

As a significant number of our retail gasoline stations and convenience stores are branded utilizing major gasoline brands, they may be dependent, in part, upon the continuing favorable reputation of such brands. Erosion of the value of major gasoline brands could have a negative impact on our gasoline sales, which in turn may cause our operations to be less profitable.

Current wording

As a significant number of our retail gasoline stations and convenience stores are branded utilizing major gasoline brands, they may be dependent, in part, upon the continuing favorable reputation of such brands. Erosion of the

Previous wording

adversely affect the availability and pricing of ethanol, which in turn could adversely affect our future gasoline and ethanol sales. In addition, changes in blending requirements or broadening the definition of what constitutes a renewable fuel could affect the price of RINs which could impact the magnitude of the mark-to-market liability recorded for the deficiency, if any, in our RIN position relative to our RVO at a point in time. Future changes proposed by EPA for the renewable volume obligations may increase the cost to consumers for transportation fuel, which could result in a decline in demand for fuels and lower revenues for our business.

Current wording

Future demand for ethanol will be largely dependent upon the economic incentives to blend based upon the relative value of gasoline and ethanol, taking into consideration the EPA’s regulations on the RFS program and oxygenate blending requirements. A reduction or waiver of the RFS mandate or oxygenate blending requirements could adversely affect the availability and pricing of ethanol, which in turn could adversely affect our future gasoline and ethanol sales. In addition, changes in blending requirements or broadening the definition of what constitutes a renewable fuel could affect the price of RINs which could impact the magnitude of the mark-to-market liability recorded for the deficiency, if any, in our RIN position relative to our RVO at a point in time. Future changes proposed by EPA for the renewable volume obligations may increase the cost to consumers for transportation fuel, which could result in a decline in demand for fuels and lower revenues for our business.

Previous wording

We purchase convenience store merchandise inventory from a small number of suppliers for our directly operated convenience stores. A change of merchandise suppliers, a disruption in supply or a significant change in our

Current wording

We purchase convenience store merchandise inventory from a small number of suppliers for our directly operated convenience stores. A change of merchandise suppliers, a disruption in supply or a significant change in our relationships with our principal merchandise suppliers could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Previous wording

We face intense competition in our purchasing, selling, gathering, blending, terminalling, transporting and storage. Competition from other providers of refined petroleum products, gasoline blendstocks, renewable fuels and crude oil that are able to supply our customers with those products and services at a lower price and have capital resources greater than ours could reduce our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.

Current wording

We face intense competition in our purchasing, selling, gathering, blending, terminalling, transporting and storage activities. Competition from other providers of refined petroleum products, gasoline blendstocks, renewable fuels and crude oil that are able to supply our customers with those products and services at a lower price and have capital resources greater than ours could reduce our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.

Previous wording

We are subject to competition from distributors and suppliers of refined petroleum products, gasoline blendstocks, renewable fuels and crude oil that may be able to supply our customers with the same or comparable products and gathering, blending, terminalling, transporting and storage services and logistics on a more competitive basis. We compete with terminal companies, major integrated oil companies and their marketing affiliates, wholesalers, producers and independent marketers of varying sizes, financial resources and experience. In our markets, we compete in various product lines and for all customers of those various products lines. In the residual oil markets, however, where product is heated when stored and cannot be delivered long distances, we face less competition because of the strategic locations of our residual oil storage facilities. We also compete with natural gas suppliers and marketers in our home heating oil and residual oil product lines. In various other geographic markets, particularly the unbranded gasoline and distillates markets, we compete with integrated refiners, merchant refiners and regional marketing companies. Our retail

Current wording

We are subject to competition from distributors and suppliers of refined petroleum products, gasoline blendstocks, renewable fuels and crude oil that may be able to supply our customers with the same or comparable products and gathering, blending, terminalling, transporting and storage services and logistics on a more competitive basis. We compete with terminal companies, major integrated oil companies and their marketing affiliates, wholesalers, producers and independent marketers of varying sizes, financial resources and experience. In our markets, we compete in various product lines and for all customers of those various products lines. We also compete with natural gas suppliers and marketers in our home heating oil and residual oil product lines. In various other geographic markets, particularly the unbranded gasoline and distillates markets, we compete with integrated refiners, merchant refiners and regional marketing companies. Our retail gasoline stations compete with unbranded and branded retail gas stations as well as supermarket and warehouse stores that sell gasoline.

Previous wording

The bulk terminals we own or lease or at which we maintain dedicated storage facilities play a key role in moving product to our customers. As of December 31, 2023, we owned, operated and maintained dedicated storage facilities at 42 bulk terminals, leased the entirety of one bulk terminal that we operated exclusively for our businesses, and maintained dedicated storage at six bulk terminals at which we have terminalling agreements. These lease and terminalling agreements are subject to expiration at various times through 2028. If these lease and terminalling agreements are not renewed or we are unable to renew them at rates and on terms and conditions satisfactory us or we are otherwise unable to replace such dedicated storage as may be needed, it could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Current wording

The bulk terminals we own or lease or at which we maintain dedicated storage facilities play a key role in moving product to our customers. As of December 31, 2024, we owned, operated and maintained dedicated storage facilities at 47 bulk terminals and maintained dedicated storage at seven bulk terminals at which we have terminalling agreements. These lease and terminalling agreements are subject to expiration at various times through 2028. If these lease and terminalling agreements are not renewed or we are unable to renew them at rates and on terms and conditions

Previous wording

We may not be able to lease sites we own or lease and/or sub-lease sites we lease with respect to the sale of gasoline and/or related activities on favorable terms and any such failure could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Current wording

We may not be able to lease sites we own and/or sub-lease sites we lease with respect to the sale of gasoline and/or related activities on favorable terms and any such failure could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Previous wording

Due to our limited asset and geographic diversification, adverse developments in the terminals we use or in our operating areas would reduce our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.

Current wording

Due to our limited asset and geographic diversification, adverse developments in the terminals we use or in our operating areas could reduce our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.

Previous wording

We rely primarily on sales generated from products distributed from terminals we own or control or to which we have access. Furthermore, a substantial portion of our assets and operations are located throughout the Northeast. Due to our limited diversification in asset type and location, an adverse development in these businesses or areas, including

Current wording

We rely primarily on sales generated from products distributed from terminals we own or control or to which we have access. Furthermore, a substantial portion of our assets and operations are located throughout the Northeast. Due to our limited diversification in asset type and location, an adverse development in these businesses or areas, including adverse developments due to catastrophic events or weather and corresponding decreases in demand for refined petroleum products, gasoline blendstocks, renewable fuels, crude oil and propane, could have a significantly greater impact on our results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders than if we maintained more diverse assets and locations.

Previous wording

Our operations are subject to federal, state and municipal laws and regulations regulating, among other matters, logistics activities, product quality specifications and other environmental matters. The trend in environmental regulation has been towards more restrictions and limitations on activities that may affect the environment over time. For example, President Biden signed an executive order calling for new or more stringent emissions standards for new, modified and existing oil and gas facilities, and the EPA has finalized rules to that effect. Our businesses may be adversely affected by increased costs and liabilities resulting from such stricter laws and regulations. We try to anticipate future regulatory requirements that might be imposed and plan accordingly to remain in compliance with changing environmental laws and regulations and to minimize the costs of such compliance. There can be no assurances as to the timing and type of such changes in existing laws or the promulgation of new laws or the amount of any required expenditures associated therewith.

Current wording

Our operations are subject to federal, state and municipal laws and regulations regulating, among other matters, logistics activities, product quality specifications and other environmental matters. The trend in environmental regulation has been towards more restrictions and limitations on activities that may affect the environment over time. For example, while in office, President Biden signed an executive order calling for new or more stringent emissions standards for new, modified and existing oil and gas facilities, and the EPA has finalized rules to that effect, although these rules are subject to legal challenge. Our businesses may be adversely affected by increased costs and liabilities resulting from such stricter laws and regulations. We try to anticipate future regulatory requirements that might be imposed and plan accordingly to remain in compliance with changing environmental laws and regulations and to minimize the costs of such compliance. There can be no assurances as to the timing and type of such changes in existing laws or the promulgation of new laws or the amount of any required expenditures associated therewith.

Previous wording

state and municipal laws and regulations governing the discharge of materials into the environment, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment, operational safety and related matters. Compliance with these laws and regulations increases our overall cost of business, including our capital costs to maintain and upgrade equipment and facilities. We utilize a number of terminals that are owned and operated by third parties who are also subject to these stringent federal, state and municipal environmental laws in their operations. Their compliance with these requirements could increase the cost of doing business with these facilities.

Current wording

The risk of substantial environmental costs and liabilities is inherent in terminal operations, and we may incur substantial environmental costs and liabilities. Our terminalling operations involving the receipt, storage and delivery of primarily refined petroleum products, gasoline blendstocks, renewable fuels and crude oil are subject to stringent federal, state and municipal laws and regulations governing the discharge of materials into the environment, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment, operational safety and related matters. Compliance with these laws and regulations increases our overall cost of business, including our capital costs to maintain and upgrade equipment and facilities. We utilize a number of terminals that are owned and operated by third parties who are also subject to these stringent federal, state and municipal environmental laws in their operations. Their compliance with these requirements could increase the cost of doing business with these facilities.

Previous wording

Various governmental authorities, including the EPA, have the power to enforce compliance with these regulations and the permits issued under them, and violators are subject to administrative, civil and criminal penalties, including fines, injunctions or both. Joint and several liability may be incurred, without regard to fault or the legality of the original conduct, under federal and state environmental laws for the remediation of contaminated areas at our facilities and those where we do business. Private parties, including the owners of properties located near our terminal facilities and those with whom we do business, also may have the right to pursue legal actions against us to enforce compliance with environmental laws, as well as seek damages for personal injury or property damage. We may also be held liable for damages to natural resources. In recent years environmental interest groups have filed suit against companies in the energy industry related to climate change. Should such suits succeed, we could face additional compliance costs or litigation risks.

Current wording

Various governmental authorities, including the EPA, have the power to enforce compliance with these regulations and the permits issued under them, and violators are subject to administrative, civil and criminal penalties, including fines, injunctions or both. Joint and several liability may be incurred, without regard to fault or the legality of the original conduct, under federal and state environmental laws for the remediation of contaminated areas at our facilities and those where we do business. Private parties, including the owners of properties located near our terminal facilities and those with whom we do business, also may have the right to pursue legal actions against us to enforce compliance with environmental laws, as well as seek damages for personal injury or property damage. We may also be

Previous wording

have a significant influence on our operations. For example, following the finding that GHG emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane threaten the public health and welfare, the EPA has promulgated or adopted regulations to regulate GHG emissions from certain large stationary sources, require the monitoring and reporting of GHG emissions from certain sources, implement emissions standards for certain sources in the oil and gas sector, and (together with NHTSA), implement GHG emissions limits on vehicles manufactured for operation in the United States. Separately, President Biden issued a suite of executive orders that, among other things, recommitted the United States to the Paris Agreement, called for the revision of Trump Administration changes to the CAFE standards, and called for the issuance of methane-emission standards for new, modified, and existing oil and gas facilities, including in the transmission and storage segments. Over the past three years, the EPA has proposed and finalized several federal regulations to try to fulfill these directives. In addition, it is possible federal legislation could be adopted in the future to restrict GHGs, as Congress has considered various proposals to reduce GHG emissions from time to time. Many states and regions have also adopted GHG initiatives.

Current wording

The threat of climate change continues to attract considerable attention. In the United States, no comprehensive climate change legislation has been implemented at the federal level. However, while in office, President Biden made action on climate change a priority of his administration. For example, on August 16, 2022, President Biden signed into law the IRA which contains hundreds of billions of dollars in incentives for the development of renewable energy, clean fuels, electric vehicles and supporting infrastructure, and carbon capture and sequestration, among other provisions. Moreover, federal regulators and state and local governments have taken (or announced that they plan to take) actions that have or may have a significant influence on our operations. For example, following the finding that GHG emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane threaten the public health and welfare, the EPA has promulgated or adopted regulations to regulate GHG emissions from certain large stationary sources, require the monitoring and reporting of GHG emissions from certain sources, implement emissions standards for certain sources in the oil and gas sector, and (together with NHTSA), implement GHG emissions limits on vehicles manufactured for operation in the United States. In addition, it is possible federal legislation could be adopted in the future to restrict GHGs, as Congress has considered various proposals to reduce GHG emissions from time to time. Many states and regions have also adopted GHG initiatives.

Previous wording

Climate change continues to attract considerable public and scientific attention. This attention has also resulted in increased political risks, including climate change related pledges made by certain candidates for public office. These have included promises to curtail oil and gas operations on federal land, such as through the cessation of leasing federal land for hydrocarbon development. During his time in office, President Biden has proposed several substantial actions on climate change including, among other things, proposing the increased use of zero-emission vehicles by the federal government, the elimination of subsidies provided to the fossil fuel industry, and increased emphasis on climate-related risk across governmental agencies and economic sectors. Other actions that could be pursued include more restrictive requirements for the development of midstream infrastructure. Additionally, litigation has been filed against companies in the energy industry related to climate change. Although the litigation is varied, many such suits allege that oil and gas companies have created public nuisances by producing fuels that contribute to climate change or allege that the companies have been aware of the adverse effects of climate change for some time but failed to adequately disclose those impacts to their investors and customers. Should such suits succeed, we could face additional costs or litigation risks.

Current wording

Climate change continues to attract considerable public and scientific attention. This attention has also resulted in increased political risks, including climate change related pledges made by certain candidates for public office. These have included promises to curtail oil and gas operations on federal land, such as through the cessation of leasing federal land for hydrocarbon development. Other actions that could be pursued include more restrictive requirements for the development of midstream infrastructure. Additionally, litigation has been filed against companies in the energy industry related to climate change. Although the litigation is varied, many such suits allege that oil and gas companies have

Previous wording

Additionally, in response to concerns related to climate change, companies in the fossil fuel sector may be exposed to increasing financial risks. Certain financial institutions, including investment advisors and certain sovereign wealth, pension, and endowment funds, may elect in the future to shift some or all of their investment into non-fossil fuel related sectors. There is also a risk that financial institutions may be required to adopt policies that have the effect of reducing the funding provided to the fossil fuel sector. For example, in October 2023, the Federal Reserve, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. released a finalized set of principles guiding financial institutions with $100 billion or more in assets on the management of physical and transition risks associated with climate change. Actions like this could make it more difficult to secure funding.

Current wording

Additionally, in response to concerns related to climate change, companies in the fossil fuel sector may be exposed to increasing financial risks. Certain financial institutions, including investment advisors and certain sovereign wealth, pension, and endowment funds, may elect in the future to shift some or all of their investment into non-fossil fuel related sectors. There is also a risk that financial institutions may be required to adopt policies that have the effect of reducing the funding provided to the fossil fuel sector, although this trend has waned recently and several high-profile banks and institutional investors have withdrawn from various associations that aim to limit financing of industries that emit significant GHG emissions. The impact of these developments on our ability to secure funding is unclear at this time.

Previous wording

products, reduced profits, increased investigations and litigation, and negative impacts on our unit price and access to capital markets. Increasing attention to climate change and environmental conservation, for example, may result in demand shifts for our products and additional governmental investigations and private litigation against us. To the extent that societal pressures or political or other factors are involved, it is possible that such liability could be imposed without regard to our causation or contribution to the asserted damage, or other mitigating factors.

Current wording

Increasing attention to, and social expectations on, companies to address climate change and other environmental and social impacts, investor and societal explanations regarding voluntary ESG disclosures, and increased consumer demand for alternative forms of energy may result in increased costs, reduced demand for our products, reduced profits, increased investigations and litigation, and negative impacts on our unit price and access to capital markets. Increasing attention to climate change and environmental conservation, for example, may result in demand shifts for our products and additional governmental investigations and private litigation against us. To the extent that societal pressures or political or other factors are involved, it is possible that such liability could be imposed without regard to our causation or contribution to the asserted damage, or other mitigating factors.

Previous wording

Additionally, we may receive pressure from investors, lenders, or other groups to adopt more aggressive climate or other ESG-related goals, but we cannot guarantee that we will be able to implement such goals because of potential costs or technical or operational obstacles. In March 2022, the SEC released a proposed rule that would establish a framework for the reporting of climate risks, targets, and metrics. As proposed, the SEC climate rule would impose burdensome and potentially costly emissions and other data gathering and reporting requirements on our operations, including, but not limited to, those related to risks to the physical impacts of climate change (i.e., flooding, water stress, extreme temperatures) on our assets and operations. To the extent the rule imposes additional reporting obligations, we could face increased costs. Separately, the SEC has announced that it is scrutinizing existing climate-change related disclosures in public filings, increasing the potential for enforcement if the SEC were to allege an issuer’s climate disclosures are misleading, deceptive or deficient. Such agency action could also increase the potential for private litigation. Relatedly, California has enacted new laws requiring additional disclosure with respect to certain climate-related risks and GHG emissions reduction claims. Non-compliance with these new laws may result in the imposition of substantial fines or penalties. Other states are considering similar laws. Any new laws or regulations imposing more stringent requirements on our business related to the disclosure of climate-related risks may result in reputation harms among certain stakeholders if they disagree with our approach to mitigating climate-related risks, increased compliance costs resulting from the development of any disclosures, and increased costs of and restrictions on access to capital to the extent we do not meet any climate-related expectations of requirements of financial institutions.

Current wording

Additionally, we may receive pressure from investors, lenders, or other groups to adopt more aggressive climate or other ESG-related goals, but we cannot guarantee that we will be able to implement such goals because of potential costs or technical or operational obstacles. In March 2024, the SEC released a final rule that establishes a framework for the reporting of climate risks, targets, and metrics. However, the future of the rule is uncertain at this time given its implementation has been stayed pending the outcome of legal challenges. Moreover, on February 11, 2025, SEC Acting Chairman Mark T. Uyeda requested that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit not schedule argument in such legal challenges while the SEC reconsiders the finalized rules. Although the SEC, under the new presidential administration, may seek to repeal or otherwise modify the rules, we cannot predict whether such action will occur or its timing. Relatedly, California has enacted new laws requiring additional disclosure with respect to certain climate-related risks and GHG emissions reduction claims. Non-compliance with these new laws may result in the imposition of substantial fines or penalties. Other states are considering similar laws. Any new laws or regulations imposing more stringent requirements on our business related to the disclosure of climate-related risks may result in reputation harms among certain stakeholders if they disagree with our approach to mitigating climate-related risks, increased compliance costs resulting from the development of any disclosures, and increased costs of and restrictions on access to capital to the extent we do not meet any climate-related expectations of requirements of financial institutions.

Previous wording

Relatedly, organizations that provide information to investors on corporate governance and related matters have developed ratings processes for evaluating companies on their approach to ESG matters. Such ratings are used by some investors to inform their investment and voting decisions. Unfavorable ESG ratings may lead to increased negative investor sentiment toward us or our customers and to the diversion of investment or other industries which could have a negative impact on our unit price and/ or our access to and costs of capital. Additionally, institutional lenders may decide not to provide funding for fossil fuel energy companies or the corresponding infrastructure projects based on climate change related concerns, which could affect our access to capital for potential growth projects. Moreover, to the extent ESG matters negatively impact our reputation, we may not be able to compete as effectively or recruit or retain employees, which may adversely affect our operations.

Current wording

Relatedly, organizations that provide information to investors on corporate governance and related matters have developed ratings processes for evaluating companies on their approach to ESG matters. Such ratings are used by some investors to inform their investment and voting decisions. Unfavorable ESG ratings may lead to increased negative investor sentiment toward us or our customers and to the diversion of investment or other industries which could have a negative impact on our unit price and/ or our access to and costs of capital. Additionally, institutional lenders may decide not to provide funding for fossil fuel energy companies or the corresponding infrastructure projects

Previous wording

Finally, public statements with respect to ESG matters, such as emissions reduction goals, other environmental targets, or other commitments addressing certain social issues, are becoming increasingly subject to heightened scrutiny from public and governmental authorities related to the risk of potential “greenwashing,” i.e., misleading information or false claims overstating potential ESG benefits. For example, in March 2021, the SEC established the Climate and ESG Task Force in the Division of Enforcement to identify and address potential ESG-related misconduct, including greenwashing. Certain non-governmental organizations and other private actors have also filed lawsuits under various securities and consumer protection laws alleging that certain ESG-statements, goals, or standards were misleading, false, or otherwise deceptive. Moreover, the Federal Trade Commission in August 2022 indicated its intent to issue revised “Green Guides” which will likely address greenwashing risks arising from ESG-related matters. As a result, we may face increased litigation risks from private parties and governmental authorities related to our ESG efforts. In addition, any alleged claims of greenwashing against us or others in our industry may lead to further negative sentiment and diversion of investments. Additionally, we could face increasing costs as we attempt to comply with and navigate further regulatory focus and scrutiny.

Current wording

Finally, public statements with respect to certain matters, such as emissions reduction goals, other environmental targets, or other commitments addressing certain social issues, have been subject to heightened scrutiny from public and governmental authorities related to the risk of potential “greenwashing,” i.e., misleading information or false claims overstating potential benefits. Certain non-governmental organizations and other private actors have also filed lawsuits under various securities and consumer protection laws alleging that certain ESG-statements, goals, or standards were misleading, false, or otherwise deceptive. Any alleged claims of greenwashing against us or others in our industry may lead to increased litigation risks, further negative sentiment and diversion of investments. Additionally, we could face increasing costs as we attempt to comply with and navigate regulatory focus and scrutiny.

Previous wording

We rely on our information technology systems, including cybersecurity, to manage numerous aspects of our businesses, and a disruption of these systems could adversely affect our businesses.

Current wording

We rely on our operational and information technology systems, including cybersecurity, to manage numerous aspects of our businesses, and a disruption of these systems could adversely affect our businesses.

Previous wording

strategies, and a serious disruption to our IT systems could significantly limit our ability to manage and operate our businesses effectively. These systems are vulnerable to, among other things, damage and interruption from power loss or natural disasters, computer system and network failures, loss of telecommunication services, physical and electronic loss of data, cyber and other security breaches and computer viruses. While we believe we have adequate systems and controls in place, we are continuously working to install new, and upgrade existing, information technology systems and provide employee awareness around phishing, malware and other cyber risks in an effort to ensure that we are protected against cyber risks and security breaches. We have a disaster recovery plan in place, but this plan may not entirely prevent delays or other complications that could arise from an IT systems failure or disruption. Any failure or interruption in our IT systems could have a negative impact on our operating results, cause our businesses and competitive position to suffer and damage our reputation.

Current wording

We depend on our operational and information technology systems to manage numerous aspects of our businesses and to provide analytical information to management. Our operational and information technology systems are an essential component of our businesses and growth strategies, and a serious disruption to our operational and information technology systems could significantly limit our ability to manage and operate our businesses effectively. These systems are vulnerable to, among other things, damage and interruption from power loss or natural disasters, computer system and network failures, loss of telecommunication services, physical and electronic loss of data, cybersecurity and other security breaches and computer viruses. In addition, advances in computer capabilities, discoveries in the field of artificial intelligence, or other developments may result in a compromise or breach of the technology we use to safeguard our operational and information technology systems and confidential, personal, or otherwise protected information. As the breadth and complexity of the technologies we use continue to grow, including as a result of the use of mobile devices, cloud services, artificial intelligence, open-source software, social media and the increased reliance on devices connected to the internet, the potential risk of cyberattacks and cybersecurity incidents also increases.* *While we believe we have adequate systems and controls in place, we are continuously working to install new, and upgrade existing, operational and information technology systems and provide employee awareness around phishing, malware and other cybersecurity risks in an effort to ensure that we are protected against cybersecurity risks and security breaches. We have a disaster recovery plan in place, but this plan may not entirely prevent delays or other complications that could arise from an operational and information technology systems failure or disruption. Any failure or interruption in our operational and information technology systems could have a negative impact on our operating results, cause our businesses and competitive position to suffer and damage our reputation.

Previous wording

In the normal course of our businesses, we may obtain personal data, including credit card information. While we believe we have adequate cyber and other security controls over individually identifiable customer, employee and vendor data provided to us, a breakdown or a breach in our systems that results in the unauthorized release of individually identifiable customer or other sensitive data could nonetheless occur and have a material adverse effect on our reputation, operating results and financial condition.

Current wording

In the normal course of our businesses, we may obtain personal data, including payment-related information. While we believe we have adequate cybersecurity and other security controls over personally identifiable customer, employee and vendor data provided to us, a breakdown or a breach in our systems that results in the unauthorized release of personally identifiable customer or other sensitive data could nonetheless occur and have a material adverse effect on our reputation, operating results and financial condition.

Previous wording

information is critical to our operations and business strategy. Despite our security measures and those of our vendors and suppliers, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to ransomware, malware or other cyberattacks by hackers, employee error or malfeasance, natural disasters, power loss, telecommunication failures or other disruptions, or as a result of similar disruptions experienced by our business partners, suppliers and/or vendors. While there have been incidents of security breaches and unauthorized access to our information technologies, we have not experienced any material impact to our operations or business as a result of these attacks; however, other similar incidents could have a significant negative impact on our systems and operations. Any such cyberattack or breach or other disruption 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 or loss of access to information could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability under laws that protect the privacy of personal information, regulatory penalties, disruption of our operations, damage to our reputation, and loss of confidence in our ability to supply our products and services or maintain the security of information we collect and store, which could adversely affect our business. In addition, as technologies evolve, cyberattacks become increasingly sophisticated, and the regulatory framework for data privacy and security worldwide continues to evolve and develop, we may incur significant costs to modify, upgrade or enhance our security measures and we may face difficulties in fully anticipating or implementing adequate security measures or new or revised mandated processes or in generally mitigating potential harm. Further, any actual or perceived failure to comply with any new or existing laws, regulations and other obligations could result in fines, penalties or other liability.

Current wording

In the ordinary course of our business, in our data centers and on our networks, we collect and store sensitive data including, without limitation, our proprietary business information and that of our customers, suppliers and business partners, information with respect to potential ventures and transactions, and personally identifiable information of our employees, customers and business partners. The secure storage, processing, maintenance and transmission of this information is critical to our operations and business strategy. Despite our security measures and those of our vendors and suppliers, our operational and information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to ransomware, malware or other cyberattacks by hackers, employee error or malfeasance, natural disasters, power loss, telecommunication failures or other disruptions, or as a result of similar disruptions experienced by our business partners, suppliers and/or vendors. While there have been incidents of security breaches and unauthorized access to our operational and information technologies and those of our vendors and suppliers, we have not experienced any material impact to our operations or business as a result of these attacks; however, other similar incidents could have a significant negative impact on our systems and operations. Any such cyberattack or breach or other disruption 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 or loss of access to information could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability under laws that protect the privacy of personal information, regulatory penalties, disruption of our operations, damage to our reputation, and loss of confidence in our ability to supply our products and services or maintain the

Previous wording

We are subject to various federal and state laws related to cybersecurity, privacy and data protection which can impact our operations and increase our costs.

Current wording

We are subject to various federal and state laws and regulations related to cybersecurity, privacy and data protection which can impact our operations and increase our costs.

Previous wording

We are subject to various federal and state laws related to cybersecurity, privacy and data protection, including privacy laws in Virginia and Connecticut which took effect during 2023. We monitor pending and proposed legislation and regulatory initiatives to ascertain their relevance to and potential impact on our business and develop strategies to address them, including any required change to our privacy and cybersecurity compliance program and policies. We see a trend toward privacy laws increasing in complexity and number, and we anticipate that our obligations will expand commensurately. Further, any actual or perceived failure to comply with any new or existing laws, regulations and other obligations could result in fines, penalties or other liability.

Current wording

We are subject to various federal and state laws and regulations related to cybersecurity, privacy and data protection, including privacy laws in Texas which took effect during 2024 and New Hampshire which took effect at the beginning of 2025. We monitor pending and proposed legislation and regulatory initiatives to ascertain their relevance to and potential impact on our business and develop strategies to address them, including any required change to our privacy and cybersecurity compliance program and policies. We see a trend toward privacy laws increasing in complexity and number, including the adoption of privacy laws in additional states, and we anticipate that our obligations will expand commensurately, which may require us to expend significant resources. Further, any actual or perceived failure to comply with any new or existing laws, regulations and other obligations could result in fines, penalties, reputational harm or other liability.

Previous wording

Our partnership agreement contains provisions that reduce the standards to which our general partner would otherwise be held by state fiduciary duty law. Our partnership agreement provides that we, and the officers and directors

Current wording

Our partnership agreement contains provisions that reduce the standards to which our general partner would otherwise be held by state fiduciary duty law. Our partnership agreement provides that we, and the officers and directors of our general partner, do not owe any duties, including fiduciary duties, or have any liabilities to holders of our preferred units. Additionally, our partnership agreement:

Previous wording

Except in the case of the issuance of units that rank equal to or senior to our preferred units, we may issue an unlimited number of limited partner interests of any type without the approval of our unitholders. We are allowed to

Current wording

Except in the case of the issuance of units that rank equal to or senior to our preferred units, we may issue an unlimited number of limited partner interests of any type without the approval of our unitholders. We are allowed to issue additional preferred units and parity securities without any vote of the holders of our preferred units, except where the cumulative distributions on our preferred units or any parity securities are in arrears.

Previous wording

The holders of our preferred units are entitled to certain rights that are senior to the rights of holders of our common units, such as rights to distributions and rights upon liquidation of the Partnership. If we do not pay the required distributions on our preferred units, we will be unable to pay distributions on our common units. Additionally, because distributions to our preferred units are cumulative, we will have to pay all unpaid accumulated preferred distributions before we can pay any distributions to our common unitholders. Also, because distributions to our common unitholders are not cumulative, if we do not pay distributions on our common units with respect to any quarter, our common unitholders will not be entitled to receive distributions covering any prior periods if we later commence paying distributions on our common units. The preferences and privileges of our preferred units could adversely affect the market price for our common units, or could make it more difficult for us to sell our common units in the future.

Current wording

distributions to our preferred units are cumulative, we will have to pay all unpaid accumulated preferred distributions before we can pay any distributions to our common unitholders. Also, because distributions to our common unitholders are not cumulative, if we do not pay distributions on our common units with respect to any quarter, our common unitholders will not be entitled to receive distributions covering any prior periods if we later commence paying distributions on our common units. The preferences and privileges of our preferred units could adversely affect the market price for our common units, or could make it more difficult for us to sell our common units in the future.