Cheniere Energy, Inc. (LNG): Is It Too Late for US LNG Exports?

Noble Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NBL) first discovered natural gas off the Israeli coast in 1998. The Leviathan represents one of the largest discoveries in Noble Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NBL)’s history. Noble stock gained 54% over the past year and these Mediterranean finds will only help fuel more growth. Also adding to the company’s revenues are assets in the United States, West Africa and the Gulf of Mexico. While US assets performed well in 2012, foreign plays may drive earnings in 2013. Equatorial New Guinea on the West African coast is slated to begin producing natural gas in 2013.

Out of Africa

As an investment, Anadarko Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:APC) produced over $7 billion in discretionary cash flow and a 7% gain in earnings in 2012. A 28% increase in onshore oil sales drove this success. The future holds further promise as Anadarko develops not only its Mozambique natural gas plays, but its oil and gas plays off Ghana, Kenya and in the Gulf of Mexico. These operations add to the company’s stable and productive portfolio of US onshore assets.

Final Foolish Thoughts

The American Council for Capital Formation recently wrote that delays in LNG export permits may derail the economic benefits of Cheniere Energy, Inc. (NYSEMKT:LNG) exports for the US. They’re right, but expediting the permit process may be too late. Already, some believe the US will not be a major player in LNG exports to Asia. Fortunately, US investors need not rely on Cheniere for LNG related profits. Both Noble and Anadarko have significant natural gas export potential on top of promising domestic assets. Either of these two companies will allow investors to make money in the LNG trade while the Department of Energy dithers in bureaucratic red tape.

Robert Zimmerman has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Robert is a member of The Motley Fool Blog Network — entries represent the personal opinion of the blogger and are not formally edited.

The article Is it Too Late for US LNG Exports? originally appeared on Fool.com is written by Robert Zimmerman -.

Copyright © 1995 – 2013 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.