US midstream energy may see consolidation

Significance

The shale revolution in the United States created an explosion in upstream exploration and production (E&P) activity, as well as unprecedented demand for infrastructure to connect newfound resources with refineries and processing plants. Even a brief pause in shale revenue and drilling could imperil investment in this midstream sector.

Impacts

• Keystone XL may be traded by the White House for environmental policy from Congress.
• The decline in oil prices will hit the Texan economy, as well as the presidential hopes of former Governor Rick Perry.
• Although oil exports may not be permitted, swaps with Mexico will ease oversupply of light crude.