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TC Energy (TSX:TRP) has had a real roller coaster ride on the TSX over the past few years. Early on, the company hit some bumps due to delays and cost overruns on major projects. However, as it navigated these challenges and focused on strengthening its pipeline and utility operations, things began to look up. Overall, TC Energy has demonstrated resilience, has adapted to market demands, and aims to provide stable dividends. But is it still a buy?
The context
TC Energy is a Canadian powerhouse in the energy sector, best known for its extensive network of pipelines transporting oil and gas across North America. With a history dating back to 1951, this company has come a long way, evolving from a regional pipeline operator to a key player in the North American energy landscape. It operates some of the most important pipelines, including the iconic Keystone pipeline. Beyond pipelines, TC Energy is also making strides in the renewable energy sector, investing in solar and wind projects to diversify its portfolio and contribute to a more sustainable future.
What makes TC Energy particularly interesting is its commitment not only to energy supply, but also to safety and environmental stewardship. The company prioritizes the integrity of its pipelines and infrastructure, thus ensuring that they operate safely and minimizing their environmental impact. This dedication has earned it a reputation as a responsible energy provider. In addition, TC Energy focuses on stability and often delivers reliable dividends to its shareholders. This makes it an attractive option for investors looking for a combination of growth and income.
Recent movements
TC Energy has been busy making headlines lately, especially with its spin-off of its liquids pipeline business into a new entity called South Bow Corporation. On August 28, 2024, South Bow closed a massive bond offering worth approximately $7.9 billion. This is a significant step towards establishing its independent capital structure. The move was met with strong market interest and is one of the final milestones leading up to the spin-off, which is set to close early in the fourth quarter of 2024. With South Bow set to operate 4,900 kilometers of crude oil pipeline infrastructure, it aims to connect Alberta crude oil supplies directly to U.S. refining markets, essentially making it a key player in the energy transportation sector.
In addition to the spin-off, TC Energy also completed the sale of the Portland Natural Gas Transmission System for approximately $1.14 billion, a deal that showcases its strategy to improve balance sheet strength and streamline operations. This transaction is part of a broader initiative to achieve a $3 billion asset divestment target by 2024. TC Energy continues to focus on reducing its debt-to-earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) ratio, all while maintaining its commitment to safe and reliable energy transportation. These recent developments highlight the company’s adaptability and strategic foresight.
Still valuable?
TC Energy’s recent earnings and valuation reveal a company that is not only holding its own, but actively moving forward with impressive growth strategies. In the second quarter of 2024, TC Energy reported comparable EBITDA of $2.7 billion, reflecting a healthy year-over-year increase. And net income attributable to common stock soared to $1.0 billion, a significant jump from the prior year. This increase highlights the company’s effective management and successful implementation of strategic initiatives, including the spin-off of its liquid pipeline business into South Bow Corporation. With a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 14.37, the stock appears to be reasonably valued for its growth potential.
Furthermore, TC Energy’s commitment to enhancing its asset portfolio through significant divestitures and strategic partnerships demonstrates its dedication to maximizing shareholder value. The company is on track to achieve its $3 billion asset divestment target. This will strengthen its balance sheet and improve its debt-to-EBITDA ratio, which is expected to reach 4.75x by year-end. With plans to invest in new projects and improve operational efficiency, TC Energy appears well positioned to meet growing energy demands in North America while simultaneously pursuing sustainability initiatives. As it navigates the transition into separate entities with distinct strategies, investors can look forward to a bright future. TC Energy has ample opportunities for growth and profitability on the horizon!