The announcement of a special distribution typically signals confidence in a company's financial health and future prospects, potentially leading to positive investor sentiment. However, since this distribution is conditional upon the acquisition approval, it adds an element of uncertainty.

Sunoco LP's role as the acquiring company in the merger with NuStar Energy L.P. places it in a significant position regarding the future financial structure and strategic direction of the combined entity. Approval of the acquisition is directly tied to the special distribution, indicating a potential positive impact on Sunoco's valuation if the merger is viewed favorably by the market.