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PAA vs PAGP: Key differences in midstream energy stocks

When comparing PAA (Plains All American Pipeline) and PAGP (Plains GP Holdings), two closely linked players in the midstream energy sector, several financial distinctions stand out—even though they share operational ties. While both benefit from similar infrastructure assets and market conditions, their valuations and investor appeal differ in notable ways.

One of the most apparent differences is market capitalization. PAA boasts a significantly larger market cap at $14.8 billion, compared to PAGP’s $4.64 billion. This reflects greater investor confidence in PAA’s standalone value and liquidity, despite the two entities’ intertwined structures.

This suggests that investors are paying a premium for PAGP shares, possibly due to perceptions of future growth or structural advantages, even though both companies generate nearly identical EBITDA—PAA at $2.91 billion and PAGP at $2.82 billion. The similarity in earnings highlights that the valuation gap isn’t driven by operational performance, but rather by investor sentiment or capital structure nuances.

On performance, both stocks have kept pace this year. Year-to-date gains are close, with PAA at 25.603% and PAGP at 26.891%, indicating that the broader market has treated them similarly amid energy sector fluctuations. This alignment isn’t surprising, given that PAGP owns the general partner of PAA and thus shares in its cash flows.

In essence, while PAA appears more attractively valued based on earnings and market size, PAGP’s premium multiple reflects its unique position in the ownership chain. For income-focused investors, the choice may come down to yield, tax considerations, and tolerance for valuation risk, factors that go beyond the surface numbers.

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The 7 fundamental Units of measurement

At the heart of modern science and engineering lies a universal language: the International System of Units, or SI. This system is built on seven fundamental base units that define how we measure the physical world. These units provide consistency across disciplines and borders, ensuring that a kilogram in France weighs the same as a kilogram in Japan.

The second (s) is the unit of time, originally based on the Earth’s rotation but now defined by the vibrations of cesium atoms. The metre (m), unit of length, is no longer defined by a physical rod but by the distance light travels in a vacuum in a fraction of a second.

The kilogram (kg) stands as the base unit of mass. Once tied to a platinum-iridium cylinder in Paris, it is now defined using Planck’s constant, linking it to the quantum world. For electric current, we use the ampere (A), which measures the flow of electric charge—critical in everything from power grids to smartphones.

Temperature is measured in kelvin (K), where 0 K represents absolute zero—the point at which all thermal motion stops. Unlike Celsius, kelvin is an absolute scale rooted in thermodynamics.

When dealing with chemical quantities, the mole (mol) tells us how many elementary entities (like atoms or molecules) are in a sample. It bridges the microscopic world to measurable amounts in the lab.

Finally, the candela (cd) measures luminous intensity, how bright a light source appears to the human eye. It’s essential in lighting design and photometry.

Together, these seven units form the foundation of measurement, quietly shaping everything from scientific research to everyday technology.

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The gold standard for diagnosing pulmonary embolism

When a pulmonary embolism (PE) is suspected, time is critical. Doctors need a fast and accurate way to confirm the diagnosis, and CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) has become the go-to test for most patients. This imaging technique combines a CT scan with contrast dye to produce detailed images of the blood vessels in the lungs, allowing physicians to spot blockages caused by blood clots.

CTPA is widely available, non-invasive compared to older methods, and highly sensitive for detecting clots in the pulmonary arteries. Because of its accuracy and speed, it’s considered the golden standard in diagnosing PE for most adults. It's especially useful in emergency settings where a quick, definitive answer can guide life-saving treatment.

That said, doctors don’t always rely solely on imaging. Clinical judgment, risk assessment, and additional tests play a role. For example, a leg ultrasound might be used alongside CTPA. While it can identify deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—a common source of PEs—it cannot rule out PE on its own. A negative ultrasound doesn’t mean the lungs are clear. In fact, many patients with PE don’t show signs of DVT in their legs.

Still, ultrasound can be helpful, especially when a patient can’t undergo a CT scan, due to kidney issues or contrast allergies. In such cases, alternative strategies like ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scans or MR angiography may come into play.

While tools like leg ultrasound support the diagnostic process, CT pulmonary angiography remains the cornerstone for confirming or excluding pulmonary embolism in most clinical scenarios. Its reliability, combined with rapid imaging capabilities, makes it the frontline defense in managing this potentially fatal condition.

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