Author: CannabisNewsWire (CNW)

About CannabisNewsWire CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge. To receive SMS text alerts from CannabisNewsWire, text “CANNABIS” to 21000 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only) For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

420 with CNW – Iowa Doctors Reluctant to Embrace Medical Marijuana Program

Iowa is set to launch its new medical marijuana program on December 1 but the doctors within the state seem lukewarm towards this development. Currently, only 325 out of the 7,000 doctors in the state have certified patients to start receiving medical marijuana.

Under Iowa state law, doctors cannot prescribe medical marijuana since it is a controlled substance. They can only give patients written confirmation of the condition for which the patients are eligible to enroll on the medical marijuana program.

The patient can then buy medical cannabis from authorized dispensaries after receiving a medical cannabis card from the state. So far, approximately 600 patients have been certified to get on the medical cannabis program.

Many doctors, such as oncologist Richard Deming, say that they are uneasy about participating in the program because they haven’t seen any scientific research to prove that cannabis has medicinal value.

He also adds that it is hard to recommend a treatment when there isn’t any information regarding the dosing levels for the substance that someone will take as medicine. Deming added that the whole program is different from the way doctors were trained to administer medicine or provide health care.

The Des Maine oncologist ends by saying that it would be helpful if the federal government eased the restrictions on marijuana research so that more scientific data can become available on the medicinal uses of cannabis.

The views of Dr. Deming were echoed by another doctor, Steven Adelman. The physician has only certified a single patient so far. He says more cannabis research is needed to address the concerns of the medical professionals.

Dr. Adelman says that in the present circumstances, one would conclude that the hype about the medical uses of cannabis has gone ahead of any scientific basis for those claims. This needs to be corrected, he adds.

The operators of the licensed medical cannabis dispensaries feel frustrated by the reluctance of doctors to take the first step needed to get patients on the medical marijuana program. They feel that a great disservice is being done to patients since some are reporting that they are finding it difficult to discuss medical cannabis with their primary healthcare givers.

It is unfortunate that such issues are coming up when the state has just expanded the list of qualifying conditions from only uncontrollable seizure disorders and intractable epilepsy to the current list that has nearly two dozen qualifying conditions.

However, there is hope that more doctors will come on board as more awareness drives are conducted to allay any fears they may have. FinCanna Capital Corp. (CSE: CALI) (OTCQB: FNNZF), Generation Alpha, Inc. (OTCQB: GNAL) and other industry players would love to see the concerns of the doctors addressed quickly so that patients can get the care they need.

More from CannabisNewsWire

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

To receive instant SMS alerts, text CANNABIS to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

420 with CNW – Cannabis Regulations Are Making Banking Expensive, Expert Says

More information is filtering out about the discussions that transpired during this year’s three-day Las Vegas MJBizCon that ended in the week before Thanksgiving. A leading banker from the Partner Colorado Credit Union revealed that it is very expensive for banks to do business with cannabis companies due to the huge amount of paperwork and the regulations which have to be adhered to when providing banking services to the marijuana industry.

Sundie Seefried revealed that her institution had to file more than 7,000 reports to regulators regarding the Credit Union’s dealings with marijuana businesses. Those reports were on behalf of just 220 cannabis businesses.

However, the same Union only filed 226 reports on behalf of 33,000 other clients of the financial institution. The man-hours needed to prepare and file all the reports associated with the banking activity of cannabis businesses makes it very costly to work with those companies.

Consequently, cannabis companies pay a high price for the banking services that they can access from the financial institutions willing to do business with them.

The huge amount of paperwork is a result of the federal laws that still regard marijuana as an illegal substance regardless of what state law may say.

Seefried also revealed that her Credit Union was the subject of an unusually high number of inspections conducted by state and federal regulators. For example, the industry average for such inspections is three in a period of approximately four years.

However, Seefried has witnessed nine inspections by regulators who want to confirm that the financial institution isn’t violating any banking laws in its dealings with cannabis businesses.

Such a high level of scrutiny is more than enough to deter many financial institutions from taking cannabis businesses as clients. Perhaps that could be the reason why more than half of the marijuana businesses in some states can’t find a financial institution to do business with, so they are left with no choice but to operate on a cash-only basis.

A conference participant asked whether it would ease matters somewhat if banks accepted cryptocurrencies from marijuana businesses instead of cash. Sundie Seefried responded that she had been explicitly told that it was already risky enough for her to have cannabis businesses as clients without taking on an added risk of accepting cryptocurrencies as well.

She ended by painting a bleak picture for cannabis banking. She said banks may remain unwilling to accept cannabis businesses as clients even if marijuana is legalized federally. This is similar to what happened to casinos.

Cannabis companies like Choom Holdings Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) and Earth Science Tech, Inc. (OTCQB: ETST) can only hope those grim predictions don’t see the light of day.

More from CannabisNewsWire

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

To receive instant SMS alerts, text CANNABIS to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

Cannabis Industry Stays in Spotlight with Ongoing Developments

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: Profitability and more widespread legality are drawing fresh investment to the cannabis sector.

  • Major investors and outside companies are putting big money into cannabis.
  • Undervalued companies provide good opportunities for new investors in the sector.
  • Following the legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada, companies in the United States are seeing even larger market caps.
  • As attitudes change, more cannabis companies are expected to soon be listed on major U.S. exchanges.

With a strong pick-and-shovel strategy alongside recent direct investment in cannabis, Generation Alpha, Inc. (OTCQB: GNAL) (GNAL Profile) is among the cannabis companies seeing good growth. Tilray, Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) is moving to benefit from fresh investor interest through public offerings in Canada and the United States. Canopy Growth Corp. (NYSE: CGC) (TSX: WEED) has benefited from a substantial investment from Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE: STZ), the result of a trend in which U.S. alcohol and tobacco companies eye up cannabis. The industry’s upward trend is also reflected in the soaring revenues of Cronos Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON).

To view an infographic of this editorial, click here.

The Mainstreaming of Cannabis

A state-legal cannabis industry has existed in North America for more than 20 years. Since the legalization of medical marijuana in California in 1996, the industry has spread at a growing rate. The majority of U.S. states now allow its sale for medical purposes. One-fifth of the states, plus all of Canada, have legal recreational cannabis markets. Yet the cannabis industry remains on the fringe of the American economy, largely separate from the work of mainstream businesses and investors.

That’s now changing. Growing numbers of investors are putting money into cannabis, cannabis companies are able to raise substantial capital for growth initiatives, and large enterprises have taken an interest in cannabis-focused ventures with a view to establish partnerships and make investments. With these changes, cannabis becoming fully integrated into financial markets appears to be a logical next step.

The Acceptable Face of Cannabis

Over the past few years, the cannabis industry has seen growing acceptance of its place in society and the economy. This is due in no small part to the professionalism of the companies working in the sector, including companies such as Generation Alpha, Inc. (OTCQB: GNAL).

Generation Alpha started out as a support provider for the cannabis industry, taking a basic supply approach to the business. A vertically integrated technology innovator, the company developed, manufactured and distributed products and solutions for cannabis growers, which were springing up across the United States. As a supplier of horticultural and lighting equipment, GNAL provided essential supplies that cannabis cultivators relied on to grow their businesses.

Generation Alpha has seen rising investment in its organization. As recently as April, it announced a $25 million in investment from an existing shareholder under its previous name of Solis Tek. Other cannabis companies have also seen substantial investments over the past year.

The most practically and symbolically significant is the investment of $4 billion in Canadian company Canopy Growth by American beverage giant Constellation Brands. Not only does this move represent a huge financial boost for the company, but it also signifies an important moment for the entire industry. This massive investment from a beverage manufacturer reflects the growing interest of tobacco and alcohol companies in cannabis and their willingness to risk money in a relatively new industry, possibly signifying a bigger wave of change coming down the line.

Undervalued Assets

There’s a marked disparity between Constellations Brands’ investment in the sector and that recently received by Generation Alpha and other cannabis brands. The reason is likely because Constellation has recognized what others have not — many cannabis companies may be undervalued.

It’s hard to judge the value of assets in an industry that’s going through such big changes. But looking at the fundamentals, it’s easy to spot places where value may not yet be recognized.

Generation Alpha’s move into cultivation and processing of cannabis is an example of this. The company recently acquired a cultivation and processing facility in Phoenix, Arizona. GNAL is using its experience in the support side of the industry to turn this 70,000-square-foot space into a technologically advanced growing facility. With the site scheduled to become operational in the first half of 2019, the profit from this is decision should soon be realized.

The recent legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada this October showed the stark imbalance between supply and demand in the cannabis market. Within weeks, the country was facing a cannabis shortage as consumers rushed to enjoy a legal high. Similar patterns are likely to play out in U.S. states as legalization — whether for medical or for recreational purposes — spreads across the country. If, as many expect, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ departure leads the Trump administration to a more liberal stance, then rising demand is even more likely, ensuring both an eager market and a good price for the product coming out of Generation Alpha’s facility.

And then there’s the long view. Big businesses now have a vested interest in cannabis. This interest will naturally lead to heavier lobbying for reform of anti-cannabis laws; not just in the United States, but around the world. The next decade will likely be a time of huge global growth for the industry, thanks to social and political change. The value of companies such as Generation Alpha could grow significantly as these pioneering cannabis companies set their sights on becoming the backbone of a mature global industry.

The Canada Effect

Events in Canada provide the surest signs of the coming shift.

As the first G8 country to legalize recreational cannabis, Canada is setting an example for the world, converting cannabis consumption from a drain on law enforcement into an asset that provides tax income for the government. The change hasn’t just affected Canadian companies; it has also touched those in the United States, including Generation Alpha. Both north and south of the border, the market cap for cannabis has grown as investors strategically place their money into the burgeoning industry.

Canada is now leading the way in cannabis. While it might take time for the United States to catch up at a federal level, American companies are already feeling the benefits.

Onto the Exchanges

All this growth means more companies listing on major markets. Together with a broader social shift in attitudes towards cannabis, a change at the top of the economy is extremely likely. As the power of cannabis companies grows, it’s surely only a matter of time before major U.S. exchanges add more American cannabis companies. With that, these companies will be able to tap into even more resources through the finance of major investors. And once the inconsistency between federal and state law is addressed, major banking will add another route to funds.

Companies with strong, proven strategies will be best placed to benefit from this surge in funding. With its core pick-and-shovel strategy, Generation Alpha fits the bill. By supplying goods and services to cannabis growers, GNAL will be ideally positioned to profit from the growth while keeping a buffer between its core business and shifts in the price of cannabis. With innovations such as its high-efficiency LED lighting system, the company will be a strong competitor among other cannabis support companies.

One of the companies looking to turn cannabis’ credibility into financial resources is Tilray, Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY). A prominent provider of medical marijuana, Tilray has used a well-developed research and design program to gain an edge in the fast-growing industry. It’s currently using public offerings in Canada and the United States to seek fresh funds from investors, but its ambitions aren’t limited to North America. The company has customers on five continents, thanks to the growing international acceptance of medical cannabis.

Through early moves in the sector, Canopy Growth Corp. (NYSE: CGC) (TSX: WEED) has established itself as one of the big names in Canadian cannabis. Working both alone and in partnership with others, Canopy Growth has evolved into a multifaceted company with a strong investment in brand and product differentiation.

Canopy Growth Corp. made news earlier this year when it received a second substantial round of investment from U.S. beverage company Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE: STZ). That $4 billion investment has made Constellation Brands a substantial shareholder in Canopy Growth, owning a third of the company. The investment was a major coup for the cannabis company, giving it the sort of resources that most of its competitors only dream of. But it may also prove to be an important moment for Constellation Brands, as it adds cannabis and cannabis-infused products to its repertoire of alcoholic drinks.

As tobacco and alcohol companies look for ways to deal with their own falling sales, it’s likely that a growing number will turn to cannabis, providing fresh investment for the market. When they do, there will be plenty of strong options. The growth of medical and recreational markets has led to impressive revenue growth for companies. For example, Cronos Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) saw revenues increase by 186 percent in the third quarter of 2018. By partnering with other businesses, increasing its cultivation space, and getting involved in the Latin American cannabis market, the company has been able to keep expanding its operations.

Big money is flowing into the cannabis industry. As its prestige rises, those funds are set to keep growing for a long while yet.

For more information on Generation Alpha, visit Generation Alpha, Inc. (OTCQB: GNAL)

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

Receive Text Alerts from CannabisNewsWire: Text “Cannabis” to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com and or https://CannabisNewsWire.News

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

DISCLAIMER: CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is the source of the Article and content set forth above. References to any issuer other than the profiled issuer are intended solely to identify industry participants and do not constitute an endorsement of any issuer and do not constitute a comparison to the profiled issuer. The commentary, views and opinions expressed in this release by CNW are solely those of CNW. Readers of this Article and content agree that they cannot and will not seek to hold liable CNW for any investment decisions by their readers or subscribers. CNW is a news dissemination and financial marketing solutions provider and is NOT registered broker-dealers/analysts/investment advisers, hold no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.

The Article and content related to the profiled company represent the personal and subjective views of the Author, and are subject to change at any time without notice. The information provided in the Article and the content has been obtained from sources which the Author believes to be reliable. However, the Author has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of the Author, CNW, or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. This Article and content are not, and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular security or course of action; readers are strongly urged to speak with their own investment advisor and review all of the profiled issuer’s filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission before making any investment decisions and should understand the risks associated with an investment in the profiled issuer’s securities, including, but not limited to, the complete loss of your investment.

CNW HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and CNW undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

Change in Attorney General Could Mean a Cannabis Revolution in the US

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: A new attorney general is still to be named to replace unabashedly anti-cannabis former AG Jeff Sessions. As the market awaits a new AG, there’s a steady push from cannabis companies keeping an eye on the massive potential of the U.S. market, companies that include Chemistree Technology, Inc. (CSE: CHM) (OTCQB: CHMJF) (CHMJF Profile), Aurora Cannabis (TSX: ACB) (NYSE: ACB), CannTrust Holdings, Inc. (TSX: TRST), Organigram Holdings, Inc. (TSX.V: OGI) (OTCQX: OGRMF), and Supreme Cannabis Co. (TSX.V: FIRE) (OTCQX: SPRWF) (SPRWF Profile).

To view an infographic of this editorial, click here.

By the end of 2025, the legal cannabis industry is expected to reach $146.4 billion worldwide. Meanwhile, a good number of U.S. companies and investors are being mostly locked out of this booming market because the federal government still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug.

However, a sea change of public opinion pointing towards a demand for federal legalization is underway with several states already having voted in favor of cannabis in some form. Even the notoriously conservative, teetotalling state of Utah has joined this revolution.

As Sessions’ replacement has yet to be announced, there is ongoing speculation on the positive benefits of a new face for the cannabis sector. As Forbes magazine puts it, “The new AG will likely be less of an opponent for cannabis simply because it is hard to find someone who has stronger opposition than Mr. Sessions.”

What’s on the table is a massive multibillion-dollar sector that could be unleashed quite quickly should the next AG have a softer and more populist approach to the plant. During the lead-up to a potential legalization, companies large and small are staking their ground in lucrative U.S. regions already brimming with a willing clientele eager to buy legal cannabis.

California alone could bring about a green wave, boasting an existing cannabis market larger than all of Canada combined. Chemistree Technology, Inc. (CSE: CHM) (OTCQB: CHMJF) has already begun setting up shop in the Golden State, having recently solidified a land purchase of 9.55 acres in California’s prominent Desert Hot Springs’ cannabis cultivation zone.

Chemistree’s strategic move into California is representative of an early-mover advantage, despite the state’s already booming cannabis sales. California’s cannabis spending hovered near $3 billion in 2017 — even before recreational marijuana became legal on January 1. By 2022, the market in the state is expected to soar to $7.7 billion.

In spite of the legal limbo of cannabis in the United States, the sector’s advantage may already be moving south from Canada into its neighbor to the south. Ahead of the new AG announcement, it appears the U.S. opportunity may have already arrived.

Waking the American Sleeping Giant

Combined, the top U.S. cannabis firms trading on Canadian exchanges represent $8 billion of market value—or roughly 20 percent of the billion-dollar market capitalization of the 144 cannabis companies listed in Canada. This just scratches the surface.

At the moment, the United States lags behind its fellow North American peers in fully capitalizing on the legalization of medical and recreational cannabis. Mexico is moving closer to legalization, with its congress at the beginning of deliberation of a bill to legalize cannabis across the country. During his election campaign, Mexican president-elect Andrés Manuel López Obrador signaled his willingness to consider legalization. Then last week, the country’s Supreme Court ruled that anti-cannabis laws are unconstitutional, forcing lawmakers to decide how to regulate its use.

To the north, Canada — along with Uruguay in South America — has already made recreational use legal. An additional 30 countries and 33 U.S. states, including Australia, Germany and Israel, have legalized some type of cannabis use. Those numbers are growing. More than a dozen countries have already started on the path to full legalization of the plant.

Following the resignation of AG Jeff Sessions, Sessions’ chief of staff, Matthew Whitaker, is presently serving as acting attorney general. Media outlets are speculating who the next AG could be, with New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Florida AG Pam Bondi leading the way as potential candidates.

While Christie has been adamantly anti-pot in the past, Bondi oversaw the approval of medical marijuana in her state of Florida. A Bondi nomination, coupled with strong public support could ultimately be a major boost for the cannabis sector.

Gearing Up for a New Era

Cannabis companies are already getting their ducks in a row for a new era of legalization. With operations in Washington State and now California, Chemistree is gearing up for a big move.

Upon the announcement of its California land acquisition, Chemistree president Karl Kottmeier stated, “This is a great purchase for Chemistree. I am pleased to report that our highly experienced team in California has begun working on this exciting project. Not only did we arrive at what we believe is a very attractive price, we are buying a site that already has much of the Conditional Use Permit application process well underway. We expect to have the application submitted within the next few weeks and anticipate approval to take 2–3 months thereafter.”

The property is capable of supporting development plans and a Conditional Use Permit application for three 68,000-square-foot cultivation and processing buildings on the site, totaling approximately 205,000 square feet.

Earlier in the year, Chemistree purchased the high-quality, Washington-based Sugarleaf brand with the expressed intent to more than quadruple the reach of its product line through 2019. By taking Sugarleaf’s brand reach across state lines into California, Chemistree is pairing the new brand with its already acquired assets.

Beyond cultivation and branding, Chemistree is also expanding into Northern California. The company has entered into a joint venture on a cannabis processing facility in the north, while also seeking capital to expand locations in the state and broaden its service offerings.

More Red, White, Blue and Green Opportunities

Having recently spun off its American assets into Australis Capital, multinational cannabis producer Aurora Cannabis (TSX: ACB) (NYSE: ACB)  plans to enter the world’s largest economy when relevant laws allow it to do so. While Aurora currently has no direct ownership interest in Australis, the company holds two warrants that would allow it to acquire an ownership interest in Australis if holding investments in U.S. cannabis assets becomes permissible within a decade. In the meantime, Aurora has successfully listed itself on the NYSE.

Soon to be following in Aurora’s NYSE footsteps is CannTrust Holdings, Inc. (TSX: TRST). CannTrust managed to double its sales in Q3, as it prepared to move to the NYSE. While still early in the game, CannTrust delivered sizeable sales growth, and nominal profits. It entered into supply agreements with nine Canadian provinces to supply recreational cannabis across Canada. The company recently launched its fourth recreational brand named “Peak Leaf,” started shipping cannabis oil to Denmark and entered into an exclusive partnership agreement with Kindred Partners, Inc.

Possibly joining the caravan to the NYSE is OrganiGram Holdings, Inc. (TSX.V: OGI) (OTCQX: OGRMF). With a market cap around $600 million, OrganiGram is likely a suitable choice for listing on the NASDAQ exchange, but it could also potentially fit on the NYSE. When it’s finally to scale, OrganiGram will likely be one of the 10 largest cannabis producers in Canada. However, an opening up of the U.S. market would only serve to boost OrganiGram’s already impressive growth curve.

While not actively operating in the United States, Supreme Cannabis Co. (TSX.V: FIRE) (OTCQX: SPRWF) is preparing for entry into the international oils (for medical use) market. Through a partnership with Medigrow located in Lesotho, Supreme is looking to secure international opportunities including Medigrow’s 40,000 litres of cannabis oil potential per year. A loosening of U.S. drug policy could allow groups such as Supreme to import their wares from abroad into the United States and get involved in what could be the largest cannabis market in the world.

For more information on Chemistree, visit Chemistree Technology, Inc. (CSE: CHM) (OTCQB: CHMJF)

Please also read and review the article ‘With Cannabis Now Legal in Canada, Investors Are Turning South to the Largest Emerging Cannabis Market in the World’

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

Receive Text Alerts from CannabisNewsWire: Text “Cannabis” to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com and or https://CannabisNewsWire.News

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

DISCLAIMER: CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is the source of the Article and content set forth above. References to any issuer other than the profiled issuer are intended solely to identify industry participants and do not constitute an endorsement of any issuer and do not constitute a comparison to the profiled issuer. The commentary, views and opinions expressed in this release by CNW are solely those of CNW. Readers of this Article and content agree that they cannot and will not seek to hold liable CNW for any investment decisions by their readers or subscribers. CNW is a news dissemination and financial marketing solutions provider and is NOT registered broker-dealers/analysts/investment advisers, hold no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.

The Article and content related to the profiled company represent the personal and subjective views of the Author, and are subject to change at any time without notice. The information provided in the Article and the content has been obtained from sources which the Author believes to be reliable. However, the Author has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of the Author, CNW, or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. This Article and content are not, and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular security or course of action; readers are strongly urged to speak with their own investment advisor and review all of the profiled issuer’s filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission before making any investment decisions and should understand the risks associated with an investment in the profiled issuer’s securities, including, but not limited to, the complete loss of your investment.

CNW HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and CNW undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

420 with CNW – Marijuana Tampons to Combat PMS

There has been a push to find natural remedies to the different health challenges that people face. For example, the use of honey has been promoted to treat coughs. And now, marijuana tampons have been made to help women deal with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).

A company called Foria is behind the new suppositories that are laced with cannabis. The marijuana in the tampons dissolves inside the vagina after the suppository has been inserted.

Dr. Gendelman explains that the marijuana tampons bring relief from the cramping associated with menstruation. This relief is due to the antispasmodic properties of the cannabis. The effects of the marijuana tampons can last between four and six hours.

Ladies shouldn’t expect the suppositories to eliminate the bloating, but any pain and cramping related to their monthly period will be eliminated or at least reduced significantly. The tampons also help to remove the achiness and loss of appetite associated with menstruation.

What do other doctors think about these suppositories? Many doctors are reluctant to comment about the efficacy of marijuana tampons. They cite the lack of scientific data on such products as the reason behind their reluctance to endorse or dissuade patients from using the tampons.

However, those doctors’ sentiments have not stopped women from trying the products. After all, cannabis has been widely accepted as something that provides pain relief. Why should menstrual pain be an exception, they ask.

Dr. Gendelman advises ladies to be careful about the cannabis tampons that they buy. They should only select products which have been tested by third-parties and found safe for use.

The FDA is yet to approve the suppositories availed by Foria. By the way, Foria also makes other marijuana-based products for women. For example, they have a cannabis lubricant that is reputed to take the sex life of women to new highs.

Perhaps women need to be concerned about the THC in the tampons. The “Relief” tampons, still undergoing medical studies, are said to have about six times more THC than CBD. Therein lies the risk that one could get addicted to cannabis after using the suppositories for a while. Can one remain safe from addiction after using the tampons occasionally?

That question may be one of the issues that the Harvard researchers studying the cannabis tampons may be investigating. We can only hope that the outcomes of the study confirm that marijuana can be used to address menstrual pain without causing any adverse effects, such as triggering addiction. Chemistree Technology Inc. (CSE: CHM) (OTCQB: CHMJF), ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX) and other players in the industry wish the creators of the tampons success in their bid to get FDA approval since that would increase the footprint of cannabis in the lives of people facing various challenges.

More from CannabisNewsWire

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

To receive instant SMS alerts, text CANNABIS to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

420 with CNW – New App Keeps Cannabis Purchases Off Your Credit Card History

We reported earlier that Canadians who buy marijuana using their credit cards risk being denied U.S. entry for life. This is because U.S. border agents can invoke their right to look into the purchasing history of an alien who wishes to enter the country before letting that person through. The appearance of marijuana purchases on your credit card statement can therefore give those agents an excuse to declare you inadmissible for life. However, an app has been developed which can get rid of that risk.

The GreenGreen app allows users to purchase cannabis without using their credit cards. The app works like an online-based credit card system, so buyers simply clear their cannabis bills at the end of each month in the same way that they would make payments to settle their credit card debts.

This innovation gives Canadians a chance to consume legal marijuana in their country without fearing that they will be victimized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents when they need to travel across the border.

The GreenGreen app also enables cannabis consumers to avoid the inconvenience of withdrawing cash from an ATM each time they want to buy marijuana. Remember that the marijuana industry is still largely cash-based since major banks are reluctant to do business with an industry which is still illegal in other markets, especially the U.S. market, where those banks have major operations.

Furthermore, the app reduces the risks associated with carrying cash. For example, one will no longer fear being mugged by opportunistic criminals who want to lay their hands on the cash you are carrying to buy cannabis.

However, customers in Ontario may wait a little longer before they can benefit from the GreenGreen app. This is because the app cannot be used to make online purchases and yet the province enacted laws permitting the sale of recreational cannabis by online stores only.

Nonetheless, marijuana buyers in the U.S. can register and start using the app to buy marijuana in the states where it is legal. Countless marijuana businesses in the U.S. have had to grapple with the risks associated with operating a strictly cash-based business. The app offers a way for cashless payments to be made to and by marijuana businesses.

Cannabis-related companies like Cannabis Strategic Ventures, Inc. (OTC: NUGS) and Canopy Rivers Inc. (TSX.V: RIV) welcome every innovation that makes it easier for the cannabis industry to serve its clients with as few hassles as possible.

More from CannabisNewsWire

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

To receive instant SMS alerts, text CANNABIS to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

Booming Cannabis Consumables Space Continues to see Product Innovations

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: The North American Marijuana Index of leading cannabis stocks continues to hold onto the 250 range that it meteorically climbed into at the start of the year.

  • Growing acceptance of cannabis is setting the stage for a consumable cannabis boom.
  • Major companies have begun to throw their hats into the ring.
  • North America is steadily headed towards broad legalization.

Canada is legalizing cannabis across the board, Mexico is fast-tracking legalization, and industrial hemp appears to be headed for legalization in the United States thanks to landslide approval in the Senate (86 to 11) of its version of the new hemp-friendly Farm Bill. Prospects of a shift in the reluctant attitude of the House as Democrats prepare to take majority there have also had a positive impact. The global cannabis market is on track to hit $146.4 billion by the end of 2025, and the industry hasn’t even seen the first real breakout commercial product in the fastest-growing CBD (cannabidiol) and beverages/edibles markets. Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQX: LXRP) (LXRP Profile) is a contender for that recognition with bio-absorption-enhancing technology and a growing line of hemp oil CBD products. GW Pharmaceuticals Plc (NASDAQ: GWPH) continues to be the leading name in cannabinoid prescription medicines with its FDA-approved, oral CBD anti-seizure solution, Epidiolex. WeedMD Inc. (OTCQX: WDDMF) (TSX.V: WMD) ranks as one of the top licensed Canadian producers, with a multichanneled distribution strategy and 70,000 square feet of production space already online. HEXO Corp. (OTC: HYYDF) (TSX: HEXO) is another Canadian producer with a track record for low-cost production that currently has around 310,000 square feet of space with plans to tack on a whopping 1 million square feet by the end of the year. Los Angeles-based MedMen Enterprises, Inc. (OTCQX: MMNFF) (CSE: MMEN) is a rapidly expanding U.S. cannabis company with 19 licensed facilities in four key states representing both cultivation and dispensaries.

To view an infographic of this editorial, click here.

Cannabis-Infused Consumables Primed to Explode

Cannabis-infused beverages saw 88 percent growth in sales from 2016 to 2017, according to analyst Flowhub, and that benchmark is likely to be met or surpassed this year. CBD and the widely known psychoactive cannabinoid THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are finding their way into alcoholic beverages as decades-old cannabis prohibition slowly retreats ahead of growing consumer confidence about the safety of medical cannabis and recreational marijuana use.

With huge new markets opening up across North America, the potential for cultivators appears to be almost unlimited. Even in places where recreational-use legalization may be a long shot, typically some form of medical access already exists. With baseline metrics such as these, it is little wonder that the North American cannabis market alone was recently projected to hit $41 billion this year, before climbing to $95 billion in 2026.

Bioavailability Tech Could Be Game-Changer

Because of the way the body metabolizes ingested cannabinoids, edibles traditionally are understood to act slowly, taking one to two hours to kick in. Comparatively poorer absorption by the gastrointestinal tract prompts many consumers to pursue more dangerous methods of consumption, such as smoking, in order to achieve the desired effectiveness more rapidly. Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQX: LXRP) has developed a proprietary lipophilic enhancement technology to bypass this problem, achieving bio-absorption rate increases 10 times greater than other products while slashing the effect onset time from hours to under 20 minutes.

Lexaria’s proprietary technology is patent protected for CBD and other nonpsychoactive cannabinoids and has patents pending for THC, other psychoactive cannabinoids, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), nicotine and other molecules. Essentially a B2B, Lexaria is in an enviable position amid the rise of cannabis edibles ranging from recreational drinks to CBD-based nutraceuticals, with a key piece of technology that the company can out-license to third-party partners. Moreover, the company’s proprietary technology may mask undesirable tastes, eliminating the need for sugar-filled edibles, and may actually allow cannabinoids to bypass being broken down by the liver if desired.

Established Presence, Superior Tech—A One-Two Knockout Punch

Lexaria also already has a considerable, established presence in the edibles space, with brands such as the company’s ViPova line of CBD-infused coffee, tea and hot chocolate. The company has seen success since 2014 with beverages such as its original Yunnan Black Tea, which contains 50 mg of Multi Scandinavian full-spectrum hemp oil per serving. These beverages lack the typical oily residue found in most CBD-infused drinks and have virtually no cannabis odor or flavor.

At the low cost of only 2 cents per milligram ($1.25 per serving), the company’s delicious ViPova teas, which come in a variety of flavors including Earl Grey and Herbal Masala Chai, are a testament to Lexaria’s ability to deliver high-value beverages to the cannabis market. The increased bioavailability of the CBD in these beverages, thanks to the company’s proprietary technology, combined with the low per-unit price, represents an incredible value that consumers are noticing. Also, Lexaria’s product mix currently includes the company’s branded Lexaria Energy Foods as well as TurboCBD supplements.

Bottles and Cans Giving Way to Packets of Powder

Capitalizing on its bioavailability-enhancing technology and established presence as a CBD-infused product developer, Lexaria has now moved to tackle the U.S. soft drinks market, which is expected to be worth $388 billion-plus by 2025, introducing a discreet, single-serving foil packet cannabinoid drink powder named ChrgD+. Lexaria is confident that a small two-gram foil packet that can be discreetly carried in a shirt pocket or purse for incorporation into a beverage will be a big hit. After all, consumers can’t show up at their kid’s soccer game with a can of soda whose branding announces “cannabis” to everyone in view.

The multi-spectrum cannabinoid portable drink powder ChrgD+ can turn any drink into a CBD-infused beverage, including wine or cocktails. While currently only available in a CBD-from-hemp version, Lexaria is in talks with cannabis companies to realize its objective of deploying a THC version of the powder.

Powdered single-serving packets of consumers’ favorite drinks have exploded in popularity during recent years as an increasing number of beverage makers are opting to give consumers the convenience of mixing their own drinks from flavor packets containing the rich, distinct flavor profiles of brands they have come to know and love. The same thing is now happening in CBD drinks, and Lexaria may possess some distinct advantages over the competition.

All Kinds of Consumables

CBD and THC appear to be rapidly making their way into all kinds of consumables. The industry’s reputation continues to be improved in the eyes of consumers due to advancing breakthroughs in cannabinoid medicines used to treat everything from epileptic seizures to inflammatory bowel disease.

GW Pharmaceuticals Plc (NASDAQ: GWPH) broke the blockade in cannabinoid medicines with the highly purified, plant-derived CBD indication Epidiolex, which is available in the United States as of November 2018 for the treatment of seizures associated with severe forms of epilepsy. This one company has arguably done more than any other to improve public perception of the cannabis sector, specifically medical cannabis. The company is not resting on its laurels either, following up the availability of Epidiolex via physician prescription with a patient support program designed to help Epidiolex users obtain access to therapy.

WeedMD Inc. (OTCQX: WDDMF) (TSX.V: WMD) moved recently to exploit its position as a leading federally licensed Canadian producer and distributor by executing a pivotal, exclusive development agreement with Montreal-based pharmaceuticals, natural health products and cosmetics developer Smart Medicines GMP. The partnership maps out a comprehensive five-year development plan, including ramping up the operational capabilities of Smart Medicines’ 10,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Montreal laboratory. WeedMD also recently signed a multiyear retail sales distribution agreement with Lifford Cannabis Solutions, which specializes in helping cannabis companies advance their products through control boards to retail.

HEXO Corp. (OTC: HYYDF) (TSX: HEXO), which produces cannabis through its Hydropothecary brand, issued a major announcement in August that it will develop nonalcoholic, cannabis-infused beverages with Molson Coors Canada. This joint venture with one of the world’s biggest beer makers is a serious play by HEXO to establish itself in the burgeoning cannabis-infused drinks market. This announcement was followed up by word that HEXO has closed on the acquisition of its first major facility outside of Quebec, taking a big step toward realizing the company’s hub-and-spoke business expansion strategy.

MedMen Enterprises, Inc. (OTCQX: MMNFF) (CSE: MMEN) recently signed a definitive $33 million agreement to acquire control of Level Up (Kannaboost Technology and CSI Solutions), which has a 25,000-square-foot production facility as well as retail locations in Scottsdale and Tempe, Ariz. Furthermore, MedMen will obtain a 40 percent stake in the top-selling K.I.N.D. Concentrates brand via the acquisition. MedMen also recently acquired the retail operations and license for a key location in Santa Ana, California, from Captor Capital Corp. in an all-stock transaction, adding to the company’s growing strategic footprint in one of the most affluent areas of Southern California.

With several of the world’s largest beverage makers on the fence about entrance into the CBD-infused beverages market, the stage is set for smaller players, as well as majors from parallel sectors without a significant ground game in nonalcoholic drinks. But beverages are just one aspect of a rapidly evolving industry that spans the gamut from edibles and concentrates to grow-ops and biopharma development.

For more information on Lexaria Bioscience Corp., visit Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQX: LXRP)

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

Receive Text Alerts from CannabisNewsWire: Text “Cannabis” to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com and or https://CannabisNewsWire.News

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

DISCLAIMER: CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is the source of the Article and content set forth above. References to any issuer other than the profiled issuer are intended solely to identify industry participants and do not constitute an endorsement of any issuer and do not constitute a comparison to the profiled issuer. The commentary, views and opinions expressed in this release by CNW are solely those of CNW. Readers of this Article and content agree that they cannot and will not seek to hold liable CNW for any investment decisions by their readers or subscribers. CNW is a news dissemination and financial marketing solutions provider and is NOT registered broker-dealers/analysts/investment advisers, hold no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.

The Article and content related to the profiled company represent the personal and subjective views of the Author, and are subject to change at any time without notice. The information provided in the Article and the content has been obtained from sources which the Author believes to be reliable. However, the Author has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of the Author, CNW, or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. This Article and content are not, and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular security or course of action; readers are strongly urged to speak with their own investment advisor and review all of the profiled issuer’s filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission before making any investment decisions and should understand the risks associated with an investment in the profiled issuer’s securities, including, but not limited to, the complete loss of your investment.

CNW HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and CNW undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

Political Change and E-commerce Drive Ongoing Growth for Cannabis Industry

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: Years of steady growth in the cannabis industry are expected to continue.

  • Cannabis industry forecasts anticipate revenues of $146 billion by 2025.
  • Individual U.S. states are already seeing cannabis sales exceed $1 billion in a year.
  • The departure of Jeff Sessions and expected passage of the Farm Bill will bolster these profits.
  • E-commerce is helping cannabidiol (CBD) products reach a growing market.

SinglePoint, Inc. (OTCQB: SING) (SING Profile) is showing how much technology can boost the industry, with support software and an online store. Terra Tech Corp. (OTCQX: TRTC) is also profiting from supporting producers, through the sale of hydroponic equipment. American Premium Water Corp. (OTC: HIPH) (HIPH Profile) is providing innovative cannabis-based products in the form of its CBD-infused water. The Alkaline Water Company Inc. (TSX.V: WTER) (OTCQB: WTER) has announced the formation of a beverage division that will offer a hemp-derived, CBD-infused product, while Level Brands, Inc. (NYSE American: LEVB) is partnering with a pharmaceutical and wellness company to provide CBD cream, spray, and edible products.

To view an infographic of this editorial, click here.

Keeping Up the Cannabis Momentum

Turbulent times in the United States are creating uncertainty for a number of industries. But for the cannabis industry, the past few years have been ones of constant growth. The spread of recreational and medical marijuana legalization across the United States and Canada has given the industry a huge boost, both financially and in its public profile, as has the increasing popularity of CBD products.

That growth is expected to continue, in large part thanks to the momentum from political change. The departure of U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions offers the possibility that the White House may finally commit to President Donald Trump’s electoral promise of cannabis policy reform at the federal level. Meanwhile, the Democratic majority in the House, together with the hemp clauses in this year’s Farm Bill renewal, set the stage to make life easier for those looking to support the American hemp industry.

The Growth of Cannabis

The past few years have been good for cannabis and technology holding company SinglePoint, Inc. (OTCQB: SING). Like so many other companies working with cannabis, SinglePoint has benefited from a huge growth in business as a once-obscure sector of the economy turns into a growing powerhouse and major employer.

There’s an irony to the fact that, for most of the companies working in the cannabis space, being based in North America is what makes their business possible. Thirty years ago, this was the headquarters of the war on drugs — the U.S. government’s attempt to wipe out the cannabis industry alongside those producing and distributing other drugs. Now the United States and Canada are the world’s biggest markets for legal cannabis as reformers work to take pot profits away from criminal gangs and to bolster public health through a legal, well-regulated industry.

As of this year, cannabis is legal for medical consumption in two-thirds of U.S. states and for recreational use in a fifth of them. Recreational use became legal in Canada a month ago — the first G8 country to make such a move. This step forward has created a huge market for companies such as SinglePoint to tap into, with Colorado alone expecting to see a billion dollars of cannabis sales by the end of 2018.

This growth isn’t limited to cultivators and retailers, the obvious face of the cannabis industry. Those businesses need support services and infrastructure to do their work. SinglePoint provides a wide range of tech solutions tailored to the sector, including software to measure cultivation, track deliveries and make payments. Other businesses provide nutrients, hydroponic equipment and advisory services to the burgeoning cannabis sector.

This also means a growing number of jobs. These are diverse opportunities as well, with many of them involving specialist skills and training from bud tending to compliance, not to mention the coders crafting SinglePoint’s software. During a reporting period between January 2017 and July 2018, the number of job listings in the industry rose by a staggering 690 percent. And the global market is expected to exceed $146 billion in revenues by the end of 2025, driven in large part by events in North America.

Maintaining Marijuana’s Momentum

One of the most significant events of the past few weeks for the cannabis industry’s prospects has been the resignation of U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions.

An outspoken opponent of cannabis reform, Sessions tried to roll back the President Barack Obama-era policy in which the federal government, though still treating cannabis as illegal, accepted the decisions of individual states to legalize it. The federal-level illegality of cannabis is an ongoing problem for the industry for several reasons, including that it makes banks and payment providers wary of providing services to cannabis businesses. Companies such as SinglePoint offer alternative payment solutions, but federal laws still limit the options. Sessions’ departure may create a real potential for change.

“This could present a major opportunity for SinglePoint to offer services we have been able to provide to other businesses for years,” said SinglePoint president Wil Ralston. “The biggest winner here could be the ancillary service provides and the potential access to banking.”

During his election campaign, President Trump promised reform on cannabis. But after two years of a Trump White House, there’s been nothing more substantial than vague rumors. With Sessions gone, now may be the time to act as more states move to legalize cannabis. And even without federal reform, changes on the state level are still positive for the industry. As SinglePoint CEO Greg Lambrecht said in an interview with MoneyTV, “as more states come on, it’s just better for us.”

CBD: A Cannabis Surprise Hit

The other big political reform about to hit the industry is the 2018 Farm Bill. Delayed by political conflict over food stamps and immigration, the bill’s passage is now expected to speed up as Republicans push through a version they can live with before losing control of the House. This bill is set to legalize the hemp industry in the United States, allowing the cultivation of a nonpsychoactive form of cannabis.

Hemp promises to be a big cash crop. CBD oil extracted from hemp is used in a wide range of health and wellness products, such as the CBD water and tinctures recently released through SinglePoint’s SingleSeed site. The CBD side of the industry reaches markets that raw cannabis can’t and, as a result, has seen huge growth, spreading into health stores and international markets.

But it’s through e-commerce that CBD has really taken off. More than $4 million of CBD products were sold through Amazon just in July this year. For companies, such as SinglePoint, that are using their own e-commerce stores, there’s even greater potential for profit than through Amazon. By providing both the product and the marketplace, they create a complete funnel to customers, benefitting from all the profits and building a loyal client base.

Beyond Weed

As SinglePoint’s software and the growth of the CBD market show, the cannabis industry is about far more than just selling weed.

For Terra Tech Corp. (OTCQX: TRTC), the focus is on supplying equipment. A producer of cultivation equipment such as hydroponics and moving tables, Terra Tech provides cannabis growers with the tools they need to grow rich, profitable crops. The growth of the industry has increased sales for hydroponics companies, a trend that’s expected to continue. Terra Tech is investing heavily in a hydroponics provider to reduce its costs and improve its ability to ensure supplies to growers.

The growing popularity of CBD has drawn in companies from outside the cannabis industry as well. American Premium Water Corp. (OTC: HIPH) is a diversified luxury consumer product company that uses biotech as the basis for health and beauty merchandise. It has produced a CBD-infused drink — Lalpina CBD water — that makes it one of the first to turn CBD into a widely available edible product.

Alkaline Water Company, Inc. (OTCQB: WTER) (TSX.V: WTER) announced the formation of its A88 Infused Beverage Division, Inc. The company currently offers products trademarked Alkaline88 that are available in more than 40,000 retail locations across the United States, including 39 of the top 50 grocers in the country. The new division — A88 — will focus on brand extension and product innovations in the healthful water category, with plans to offer a hemp-derived, CBD-infused Alkaline88 water product.

Level Brands, Inc. (NYSE American: LEVB) has launched a new line of CBD products developed jointly with Isodiol International, Inc. The products include CBD oral sprays marketed under kathy ireland® Health & Wellness; CBD edibles marketed under Chef Andre Carthen Edibles; and a CBD pain-relieving cream available under Ireland Men One, a men’s lifestyle brand focused on millennials.

The cannabis industry is already seeing huge growth, creating jobs and wealth. With legal reform in the United States and the momentum provided by e-commerce, this growth appears set to continue for a long time to come.

For more information on SinglePoint, visit SinglePoint, Inc. (OTCQB: SING)

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

Receive Text Alerts from CannabisNewsWire: Text “Cannabis” to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com and or https://CannabisNewsWire.News

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

DISCLAIMER: CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is the source of the Article and content set forth above. References to any issuer other than the profiled issuer are intended solely to identify industry participants and do not constitute an endorsement of any issuer and do not constitute a comparison to the profiled issuer. The commentary, views and opinions expressed in this release by CNW are solely those of CNW. Readers of this Article and content agree that they cannot and will not seek to hold liable CNW for any investment decisions by their readers or subscribers. CNW is a news dissemination and financial marketing solutions provider and is NOT registered broker-dealers/analysts/investment advisers, hold no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.

The Article and content related to the profiled company represent the personal and subjective views of the Author, and are subject to change at any time without notice. The information provided in the Article and the content has been obtained from sources which the Author believes to be reliable. However, the Author has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of the Author, CNW, or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. This Article and content are not, and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular security or course of action; readers are strongly urged to speak with their own investment advisor and review all of the profiled issuer’s filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission before making any investment decisions and should understand the risks associated with an investment in the profiled issuer’s securities, including, but not limited to, the complete loss of your investment.

CNW HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and CNW undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

420 with CNW – Cannabis PTSD Study Finally Secures Target Number of Participants

A team of researchers interested in finding out whether cannabis could treat PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) among veterans finally registered its 76th study participant on Veterans Day.

The Scottsdale Research Institute located in Phoenix, AZ got permission from the FDA to conduct the research in 2010. The researchers then started recruiting study participants in 2016 but hit several speed bumps in their efforts to get the required minimum number of participants (76 veterans).

First, the researchers were denied access to the veterans’ hospital just 20-miles away from the facility where the research is being conducted. The Veterans Affairs department refused to grant access because federal laws regarded cannabis as a substance that didn’t have any medicinal value.

Public hospitals and universities in Arizona also refused to cooperate with the researchers as they recruited study participants citing federal laws as restricting them from being part of a study on an illegal substance.

These challenges nearly made the researchers widen the scope of the research so that non-veterans could also be allowed to enroll.

However, such a move would have defeated the purpose of the study since the researchers were specifically interested in investigating whether cannabis could treat PTSD in military veterans. The search for participants therefore dragged on as thousands were screened and rejected for not meeting the strict requirements of the study.

Gradually, the number of eligible participants started growing until the climax was reached almost two years after the recruitment exercise for participants started.

The researchers now have the 76 participants that they need to proceed with their randomized, controlled study of how marijuana can help veterans with chronic forms of PTSD.

Each day, the study participants will be given 1.8 grams of marijuana. This cannabis will vary in potency and the participants will keep a journal of how they feel or anything else noteworthy during the study period. The participants will also be free to decide how much of that daily ration to smoke.

The study subjects will visit the research institute 17 times during the 12-week duration of the study. The participants will then be followed up for six months after the initial 12-weeks of treatment with cannabis.

The researchers hope to publish their findings in 2019 after getting a definitive answer of whether cannabis can treat PTSD in veterans, and whether it has any adverse effects on those former servicemen and women.

This research comes at a time when efforts are being made to pass House Bills aimed at regulating and granting access to medical cannabis by veterans. The scientific community and cannabis industry players, such as Cannabis Strategic Ventures, Inc. (OTC: NUGS) and Canopy Rivers Inc. (TSX.V: RIV) await the results of this Phoenix study.

More from CannabisNewsWire

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

To receive instant SMS alerts, text CANNABIS to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

420 with CNW – Could Franchising Be the Future of the Cannabis Industry?

As the Marijuana Business Conference came to an end in Las Vegas last week, a new business structure was mooted for the cannabis industry. Franchising. Some industry players are considering starting cannabis dispensary chains that would be the McDonalds and Starbucks of the cannabis industry.

The idea of franchise businesses in the cannabis industry is appealing at several levels.

First, consumers in America have been trained to consume products from trusted brands. That is why McDonalds and Starbucks get more clients than independent burger or coffee shops. Franchises in the cannabis industry would tap into the brand loyalty already instilled in buyers.

Secondly, a cannabis franchiser would save many cannabis investors from making the expensive mistakes that the pioneers in the cannabis industry have made. The cannabis industry is quite young, so the collective pool of experience in running cannabis enterprises is relatively shallow.

Creating cannabis franchises would help those who have created tried and tested cannabis industry systems to share (for a fee) their experiences and roadmap to success. The franchisees would benefit by starting off with a business model that has a proven track record of success.

However, some hurdles may still stand in the way of franchising as a business model for the cannabis industry in the U.S.

First, the cannabis industry is fragmented. Each state has its own rules regulating the cannabis market. It may therefore be hard for one business model to succeed in different jurisdictions whose laws differ widely. Maybe this could explain why the franchise would be very expensive to acquire. Extensive work needs to be done to tweak the model so that it fits within the state and local regulations governing the cannabis industry in different areas.

Secondly, many jurisdictions restrict the number of cannabis dispensaries or retail outlets that can be opened within a given area. Some local regulations even put a cap on the number of cannabis business licenses that can be granted to a single entity. Such requirements are intended to foster competition and prevent one business from controlling the cannabis market. How would cannabis franchisers navigate such regulations?

Thirdly, federal laws currently restrict cannabis from crossing state lines. This can present a major operational challenge to a franchiser since he or she would need to set up a vertically integrated business (cultivation, manufacture and sale/distribution) in each state where it intends to acquire franchisees. What is the minimum number of franchise outlets that would be needed to justify the expense of setting up that integrated infrastructure?

The problems above can certainly be thought through and solutions found, but it isn’t something that can be fixed in a short time. However, the franchise idea is a good one and shows that the cannabis industry is here to stay.

Youngevity International, Inc. (NASDAQ: YGYI) and American Premium Water Corp. (OTC: HIPH) look forward to the passing of enabling cannabis laws at the federal level since that would be one of the factors that makes it easier for cannabis entrepreneurs to create nationwide franchises.

More from CannabisNewsWire

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

To receive instant SMS alerts, text CANNABIS to 21000

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com