Pipeline operators go south for growth

Article Excerpt

Enbridge and TransCanada continue to face strong political and environmental opposition to their proposed oil pipeline projects in Canada. In response, both firms are expanding in the U.S. with big acquisitions. While that adds to their risk, we feel both purchases will fuel their growth for years to come. However, we see TransCanada as the better choice right now. ENBRIDGE INC. $58 (Toronto symbol ENB; Conservative Growth and Income Portfolios, Utilities sector; Shares outstanding: 934.2 million; Market cap: $54.2 billion; Price-to-sales ratio: 1.6; Dividend yield: 3.7%; TSINetwork Rating: Above Average; www.enbridge.com) is buying Spectra Energy Corp. (New York symbol SE). Based in Houston, Texas, Spectra operates 143,520 kilometres of crude oil and natural gas pipelines in the U.S. and Canada. It also owns oil and gas storage facilities. Under the terms of the deal, Spectra investors will receive $37 billion worth of Enbridge shares. After the transaction, Spectra shareholders will own 43% of the new firm; Enbridge shareholders will own…