Summary
Kinder Morgan, Inc. (KMI) has officially completed its previously announced acquisitions of Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. (KMP), Kinder Morgan Management, LLC (KMR), and El Paso Pipeline Partners, L.P. (EPB). This landmark transaction effectively consolidates these entities under the KMI corporate umbrella, simplifying KMI's structure and eliminating the partnership structure that previously existed for KMP and EPB. Investors should note that the completion of these mergers has led to the termination of KMI's previous credit agreement and amendments to its bylaws and shareholder agreements. Specifically, the number of directors on KMI's board will now range between ten and sixteen, and the influence of Highstar Capital LP on board appointments has been reduced due to their decreased ownership stake. These changes signal a move towards a more streamlined corporate governance and operational framework for Kinder Morgan.
Key Highlights
- 1KMI has successfully completed the acquisition of KMP, KMR, and EPB, consolidating them into the KMI corporate entity.
- 2The mergers eliminate the master limited partnership (MLP) structure for KMP and EPB, simplifying KMI's overall corporate structure.
- 3Shareholders of KMP and EPB had the option to receive a mix of cash and KMI common stock, all cash, or all KMI common stock for their units, subject to proration.
- 4The acquisition of KMR resulted in its shareholders receiving KMI common stock.
- 5The existing KMI credit agreement dated May 6, 2014, has been terminated as a result of these transactions.
- 6KMI's bylaws have been amended to set the board size between ten and sixteen directors.
- 7An amendment to the Shareholders Agreement reflects the reduced influence of Highstar Capital LP, leading to the resignation of one of its director appointees.