Energy Transfer's Distribution Remains Flat, Wunderlich Expects That To Change

Wunderlich Securities has published a research report on Energy Transfer Equity (NYSE: ETE) and has initiated coverage on the company with a Buy rating.

In the report, Wunderlich writes "As a General Partner MLP, Energy Transfer Equity owns the general partner interest and incentive distribution rights (IDRs) of Energy Transfer Partners (ETP-$51.36, Buy) and Regency Energy Partners (RGNC-NR). ETE has not increased its distribution since the fourth quarter of 2009 as distribution growth at ETP stalled. However, we believe that will change. We believe Energy Transfer Partners will increase its distribution in 2011 and 2012, which would positively impact the cash flow at ETE."

Wunderlich has also issued a $45 price target on Energy Transfer Equity, which closed yesterday at $38.46.