{
  "id": 16601919,
  "title": "LNG Exports Are Set to Surge. Is Shell or Energy Transfer the Smarter Way to Play It?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/lng-exports-are-set-to-surge-is-shell-or-energy-transfer-the-smarter",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-10-26T12:15:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Motley Fool",
    "slug": "motley-fool",
    "url": "https://www.fool.com/investing/2026/10/26/lng-exports-are-set-to-surge-is-shell-or-energy-tr/?source=iedfolrf0000001"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "LNG exports are poised for significant growth, prompting both Shell and Energy Transfer to position themselves for this trend. Shell (SHEL +2.25%) has committed to a $23 billion expansion of a Canadian LNG export facility, demonstrating its confidence in the demand for this energy source. However, Energy Transfer (ET +2.05%) presents an alternative investment opportunity, offering investors a way to capitalize on the LNG trend without the commodity-related risks.\n\nNatural gas is being viewed as a transition fuel as the world shifts towards cleaner energy sources. Yet, its transportation challenges due to the need for cooling and liquefaction, along with geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, have led to increased interest in clean energy alternatives. Consequently, liquefied natural gas from stable countries like Canada is expected to see rising demand.\n\nShell's expansion of its Canadian facility is a positive sign, but it does not alter the company's core business model. As an integrated energy company, Shell remains exposed to the volatility of oil and natural gas prices. To mitigate this risk, investors may consider Energy Transfer, which is focused on providing pipeline services for oil and natural gas, rather than producing or owning them directly. This approach offers reliable cash flows and a high-yield investment opportunity.\n\nEnergy Transfer's pipeline business, while not as exciting as production or exploration, provides stability and predictable income. The company's current dividend yield of 6.7% is substantially higher than Shell's 2.9%. Moreover, Energy Transfer aims for a steady annual distribution growth of 3% to 5%, resulting in an overall yield and growth rate of roughly 10%. This yield, combined with the expected market return of around 10%, makes Energy Transfer an attractive option for investors seeking to profit from the LNG trend with reduced commodity risk.\n\nDespite its advantages, Energy Transfer is not without its challenges. In 2020, the company reduced its dividend to focus on reducing leverage. However, this restructuring is now complete, and Energy Transfer's strategy is shifting towards slow and steady growth. For investors who want exposure to the LNG market but are hesitant about taking on commodity risk, Energy Transfer could be a viable option, provided they view the 2020 dividend cut as a strategic reset for the company. Overall, The Motley Fool suggests that considering Energy Transfer as an investment could be a smart move for those looking to capitalize on the LNG trend while minimizing exposure to commodity volatility.",
  "summary": "Shell is doubling down on LNG, but the energy giant's commodity risk could make Energy Transfer a better option.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Nasdaq Markets",
        "title": "LNG Exports Are Set to Surge. Is Shell or Energy Transfer the Smarter Way to Play It?",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/lng-exports-are-set-to-surge-is-shell-or-energy-transfer-the-smarter-16602720",
        "published": "2026-10-26T12:35:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}