Tag: KSHB

Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference Will Bring Cannabis Visionaries and Investors Together

  • Presented by Benzinga, the upcoming cannabis conference will be held at the Eden Roc in Miami Beach, Florida; it is the go-to source event for investors who want the latest news and opportunities from the burgeoning sector
  • The conference will kick off on January 15 with an invite-only C-Suite retreat for cannabis operators; the audience will be just 100 C-Suite executives; a pre-retreat reception will be held the night prior
  • The conference will feature company presentations, networking receptions and an all-star lineup of knowledgeable keynote speakers talking about the global opportunities for cannabis

Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference (CCC) will offer attendees a fast-paced comprehensive lineup of speed networking, a specially selected lineup of keynoters, corporate presentations for investors and a look at the future of cannabis internationally. It will be held January 15-16 at the Eden Roc in Miami Beach (www.BenzingaCannabisConference.com).

The attendee mix is expected to consist of 25 percent institutional investors, 20 percent retail investors, 40 percent public cannabis companies, 10 percent private cannabis companies and five percent media.

Reserve your place and book hotel rooms for CCC now at http://cnw.fm/42sPg. Be sure to learn more about how you can qualify for special discounted tickets and hotel rooms.

“Benzinga’s Cannabis Capital Conference brings together the crème de la crème of the cannabis world,” Neal Hamilton, vice president of marketing for Benzinga, stated in a recent press release. “Benzinga has long presided as a financial media leader, offering broad coverage relative to the cannabis space. We now bring that standout expertise to a live setting where entrepreneurs and investors can network, forge deals and learn from today’s top cannabis influencers, policymakers and innovators.”

CCC will showcase the following public and private companies:

  • AmeriCann Inc. (OTCQB: ACAN)
  • Aurora Cannabis Inc. (TSX: ACB) (NYSE: ACB)
  • Cannex Capital Holdings Inc. (CSE: CNNX) (OTCQX: CNXXF)
  • Harvest Health & Recreation Inc. (CSE: HARV)
  • CEDR HR Solutions
  • CuraLeaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA)
  • DionyMed Brands Inc. (OTC: HMDEF)
  • Growcentia
  • iAnthus Capital Holdings Inc. (CSE: IAN) (OTCQX: ITHUF)
  • InMed Pharmaceuticals Inc. (OTCQX: IMLFF) (TSX: IN)
  • KushCo Holdings Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB)
  • LGC Capital Ltd. (TSX.V: LG)
  • Liberty Health Sciences Inc. (OTCQX: LHSIF)
  • MariMed Inc. (OTCQB: MRMD)
  • Medicine Man Technologies Inc. (OTCQX: MDCL)
  • Medipharm Labs Corp. (TSX.V: LABS)
  • MJ Freeway
  • New Frontier Data
  • Newstrike Brands Ltd. (TSX.V: HIP)
  • Plus Products Inc. (CSE: PLUS)
  • Pure Global Cannabis Inc. (OTC: PRCNF) (TSX.V: PURE)
  • Radicle Inc./Gage Cannabis
  • Starbuds/Compass Cannabis
  • Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTC: TCNNF)
  • Valens GroWorks Corp. (OTCQB: MYMSF)
  • Wayland Group Corp. (OTCQB: MRRCF) (CSE: WAYL)
  • High Tide Inc. (CSE: HITI)

For more information, visit the event’s website at www.BenzingaCannabisConference.com

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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.

CannabisNewsWire is at the epicenter of the Cannabis Revolution.

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Political Wins Hold Promise for Strong Cannabis Strategies

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: State ballots and the departure of Jeff Sessions have led to fresh confidence in the cannabis sector.

  • The cannabis industry is going through a period of huge growth.
  • Two states recently voted to legalize medical cannabis and one voted to legalize recreational cannabis.
  • The departure of Jeff Sessions removes a significant block for the industry.
  • A variety of strategies—some focused on product and others on support services—are emerging to make the most of this market.

Generation Alpha, Inc. (OTCQB: GNAL) (GNAL Profile) has developed a dual strategy to make the most of this opportunity, investing in both product and supplies for producers. MedMen Enterprises, Inc. (CSE: MMEN) (OTCQX: MMNFF) is financially supporting further legal reform while building up a cultivation and retail business across several states. KushCo Holdings Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB) has grown from a packaging company to one providing a range of support services. As new niches emerge, The Green Organic Dutchman (OTCQX: TGODF) (TSX: TGOD) is staking its claim through a focus on organic, sustainably grown cannabis. Even non-cannabis companies are profiting from this growth, with Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG) investing in hydroponics offerings that will supply crucial equipment to cannabis cultivators.

To view an infographic of this editorial, click here.

A Blooming Industry

Cannabis companies are in a jubilant mood following the results of last week’s events in American politics. At the polls, two states voted to legalize medical cannabis while another voted to permit its recreational use. Though Congress lost several pro-cannabis Republicans, a majority for the Democrats, America’s less conservative party, is a good omen for reform. And with President Trump’s sacking of Jeff Sessions, the country is now rid of a staunchly anti-cannabis attorney general.

This opens the way for companies with strong cannabis strategies to make bold moves in the coming year. From entering new states to producing fresh product lines, the options for growth and development are many. A few key considerations define the strategies of the current cannabis players.

Product Versus Infrastructure

Two basic approaches to business strategy currently dominate the cannabis market — one based on infrastructure and the other based on product. However, these strategies don’t have to be separate, and Generation Alpha, Inc. (OTCQB: GNAL) is building strong businesses by combining them. And the way this strategy plays out shows a lot about where the industry is at.

The product strategy is an obvious one and typically garners the most public attention. Companies going down the product path focus on the production, processing, and retail side of cannabis. These are the companies setting up farms and dispensaries, feeding the growing demand from consumers across North America. It a strategy that Generation Alpha recently moved into, under its previous name of Solis Tek, with the acquisition of cultivation and processing facilities.

The other strategy is to provide support services and supplies for product-oriented companies. As the market grows, there will be more and more need for such services, which profit off cannabis but are better insulated from shifts in the market and its political oversight. Generation Alpha started out with this strategy, as a vertically integrated technology innovator, developer, manufacturer and distributor bringing products and solutions to cannabis growers. Providing horticultural and lighting supplies, the company grew by providing cannabis growers with the equipment they needed.

Each strategy can work well on its own, but running a double strategy, while more complex, has real potential benefits. As both supplier and customer for cultivation equipment, companies such as Generation Alpha can create great efficiencies in their supply chains. And by developing both business streams, they can benefit from the security of a picks-and-shovels approach while also accessing the growing profits of the front-line cannabis trade.

Location, Location, Location

Choosing which states to operate in is an important consideration for American cannabis companies. Although it is widely anticipated to change, cannabis currently remains illegal at a federal level, and it is only through state-level initiatives that the market has been allowed to emerge. Cultivation and retail effectively operate on a statewide scale at best, so looking at where a state stands now and where it is likely to go in the future is vital to making savvy business decisions.

Arizona, where Generation Alpha recently acquired cultivation and processing facilities, provides a useful example of how local conditions shape the market. The state made medical cannabis legal in 2010. Despite a closely fought vote, opponents of cannabis have failed to overturn or limit the market despite ongoing campaigns. The state’s supreme court even overturned a rule keeping medical cannabis off college campuses. Arizona’s medical cannabis market seems secure.

In 2016, an attempt to legalize recreational cannabis in the state failed by a narrow margin. Medical legalization faced a similar setback in 2002, only eight years before passing. As recent generations are generally more liberal toward cannabis than their elders, it is likely that a similar pattern will play out for recreational cannabis, with a successful vote almost inevitable. Companies that have become established under the medical licensing laws will be in a strong position to make the most of this.

“We are excited about this opportunity in Arizona and its growth and profitability potential,” said Generation Alpha CEO Alan Lien. “We are pleased to have partners such as Future Farm Technologies and Yorkville Advisors to collaborate and support the build-out and growth of this facility. Our collective experience and knowledge in cannabis will position this Arizona operation for success. We are excited to commence Phase 1 of the development and construction of our state-of-the-art cultivation and processing facility and look forward to many additional opportunities in the cannabis industry.”

Expanding Operations

The potential of the Arizona market hasn’t gone unnoticed by other companies. MedMen has invested heavily in getting into the state, acquiring a top Arizona medical cannabis wholesaler.

This is part of a wider pattern of companies spending big to secure their spots in a burgeoning cannabis sector. For example, drinks giant Constellation Brands has spent billions investing in a Canadian cannabis company to give itself a foothold in the industry. Canadian and American companies are looking at cross-border investment, while outsiders are moving into the market as well.

This big spending only adds to the strength of infrastructure plays such as Generation Alpha’s strong position in cultivation equipment. Much of the money being invested will go into growing more cannabis. That means more hydroponics, lighting and related services will be needed across the legalized states. Any investment in cannabis cultivators ultimately becomes an investment in their suppliers.

Where Next for Cannabis?

The next few years promise solid growth for the cannabis industry in North America. Even before this month’s political upheavals, analysts projected that the $9 billion industry would grow to $47.3 billion by 2027.

The fallout from the mid-terms means that investors can be even more confident about what happens next. The forced resignation of Jeff Sessions removes one of the biggest obstacles to growth for the cannabis industry in the United States. Sessions, a staunch opponent of cannabis, had rescinded the Obama-era memo committing federal law enforcement to non-intervention in state-level cannabis industries. With him gone, cannabis shares rose as businesses and investors looked forward to a more tolerant regime.

This won’t mean an end to campaigning for MedMen Enterprises, Inc. (CSE: MMEN) (OTCQX: MMNFF), the largest financial supporter of progressive marijuana laws, but it does mean that the company’s campaigning efforts are more likely to pay off, creating space for expansion of its cultivation and retail business. The company already operates 19 facilities in four states and has recently announced the addition of a fifth, through a move into Arizona. Despite the limitations created by federal laws, MedMen is showing that cannabis companies can operate on an inter-state level.

Like Generation Alpha, KushCo Holdings Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB) entered the sector by providing support services to cannabis producers, in the form of packaging solutions. The company has since expanded its operations, creating a one-stop shop for the cannabis market. Seeing the huge potential currently available, it has recently formed an advisory board to guide strategic growth initiatives, making the most of a constantly expanding market.

While KushCo provides another example of the infrastructure strategy, The Green Organic Dutchman (OTCQX: TGODF) (TSX: TGOD) is focused on product. A producer of organic, sustainably grown cannabis, the company is making the most of the connection between cannabis consumption and concern with environmental issues. In a market large enough to start dividing into specialist niches, it is tapping into the higher prices people will pay for organic products.

Not every company profiting from cannabis is focused on that market. Lawn, garden and outdoor living company Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG) has been benefiting from the demand for cultivation equipment that cannabis’s success brings. It recently acquired the United States’ foremost distributor of hydroponic equipment, which is crucial to the cultivation of cannabis. As the cannabis industry grows, so too does hydroponics.

Political change offers further growth for an already flourishing industry, allowing profits from a wide range of strategies.

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

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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.

Cannabis Stocks Defy Gravity During Market Plunge

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: In the recent broad stock market sell-off, one sector resisted the market plunge.

  • Cannabis stocks shined during the market rout.
  • Global cannabis market is expected to exceed $146 billion by 2025.
  • Cannabis market analysts predict CAGR of 34.6 percent during next seven years.
  • Cannabis markets spawn dynamic ancillary businesses.

Multiple marijuana stocks shined in the sea of red during mid-October’s rout, racking up gravity-defying gains. The sizzling sector is sending signals of being uncorrelated with markets that are driven by the imperatives of institutional traders. Being untethered from the vagaries of institutional intentions is most likely advantageous for individuals intent on profiting from the impending cannabis tsunami. Marijuana sector growth has spawned a realm of new dynamic businesses in previously unimagined arenas. Leveraging the immense opportunity, NUGL, Inc. (OTC: NUGL) (NUGL Profile) has developed a first-of-its-kind, cutting-edge search app and comprehensive online directory exclusively for the marijuana industry. Heralded as a global first-mover cannabis connectivity business, NUGL just signed a deal that significantly expands its footprint and reach. The global growth in marijuana has also spurred investments in the sector by such well-known names as Constellation Brands Inc. (NYSE: STZ) and The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG),and has launched marijuana-centric companies such as Terra Tech Corp. (OTCQX: TRTC) and KushCo Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB).

To view an infographic of this editorial, click here.

Cannabis Jackpot

Cannabis is understandably generating intense global interest from business interests and investment communities. It’s impossible to ignore a market sector valued at an estimated $7 billion two years ago that’s now projected to exceed $146 billion worldwide by 2025 — a 20-fold increase. The stratospheric growth in the global marijuana market is anticipated to achieve a mind-boggling CAGR of 34.6 percent between 2018 and 2025.

Marijuana markets started gaining global traction in tandem with increased consumer demand for medicinal marijuana utilized for chronic pain and myriad other disorders. Medical marijuana was, in fact, the largest segment of the cannabis sector in 2016, and its value is expected to surpass $100 billion by 2025. The legalization of recreational marijuana use in multiple states and various countries has propelled demand into overdrive. The industry is now on track to bring in $8 billion by the end of this year. The research and development of safer forms of ingesting marijuana such as tinctures, oils, vapes and other edibles are expected to bolster market growth.

Connecting All Things Cannabis

On the cutting edge of the development of organic data analytics in the cannabis industry, NUGL, Inc. (OTC: NUGL) is focused on clearing up consumer confusion about the wide number of product options and becoming an integral asset to the burgeoning sector. While other attempts to connect and codify the spider web of interactions in the legal cannabis community have fallen short of expectations, NUGL expects its first-to-market, best-in-class technology platform to snag the lion’s share of this invaluable new market.

Since cannabis ads are prohibited on most social media networks, including Facebook, NUGL seized the opportunity to create the largest, most robust cannabis business networking platform in the world. The company’s internet-based search apps and online directory are the first ever to deliver global cannabis users networking power with unbiased search results, eliminating paid placement listings and skewed reviews. NUGL’s networking platform employs both business-to-consumer and business-to-business applications, providing the tools the industry needs to connect both pieces of the industry together. This allows all cannabis services, events and brands the ability to network and bring their companies to market.

NUGL’s platform is designed to serve cannabis-related businesses, products, services and users by building a community that meets the needs of each segment. NUGL puts the power of connection and self-promotion back into the hands of cannabis companies, giving them the tools to build a dedicated profile featuring their brands and services. The NUGL cannabis community is experiencing significant growth as dispensaries, strains, doctors, lawyers, service professionals, vape shops, hydro stores and brands are joining daily.

Profiles for Every Community Member

NUGL offers four types of profiles: brands, events, services, and retail. Each of these profiles can connect and interact with each other, allowing an unprecedented level of communication between each segment of the cannabis market. For instance, using the NUGL app, brands can explore and develop their distribution capabilities by connecting with retail locations. Brands can even use the app to market their products, letting stores know about special order discounts, specials, and other marketing information.

When a brand and retail store have inked a distribution deal, the store can benefit by being included on the NUGL store locator. That means that when a user searches for a specific cannabis brand, the retail store appears on a source map, driving consumers to the location.

Cannabis service providers can use NUGL to reach out to everyone on the app, advertising the unique services they provide. For instance, a CPA firm that specializes in the cannabis market can communicate directly with the niche clients it is looking for. And finally, events such concerts or other occasions that either focus on or are open to cannabis users can extend invitations and attract participants.

NUGL’s iOS and Android apps are available in the Apple and the Google Play stores, and the company is intensely consumer focused. Future software development is directed and driven by community feedback. Reinforcing its credo of “for the people, by the people,” NUGL just announced major updates to its app in response to community feedback asking for a more robust mobile application.

In tune with consumer input, NUGL proactively launched major mobile application updates that included, in part, newly redesigned profile pages and updated brand profiles. The company also added new swipe gestures and social media links to profile pages, as well as menu tabs and social share links to profiles. And NUGL simplified search functions with an updated search bar, new filters, improved brand search functionality and redesigned icons.

Multiple Platforms Expand Reach

There’s little doubt about consumer demand for cannabis or the void of platforms to efficiently connect consumers to cannabis-related companies and services. NUGL is rapidly filling that void and expanding at breakneck pace. NUGL’s user sign-ups and mobile app downloads in September eclipsed expectations and surpassed industry standards for comparable tech start-ups.

“We not only saw great returns on our initial spend but also saw the beginning of a viral push. Our next step is to scale our marketing model and watch NUGL grow its user base and app downloads even more,” NUGL CMO Ryan Bartlette stated.

Last month NUGL expanded its footprint and reach through a national joint venture marketing agreement with Nichols Publishing Company. NUGL is adding tens of thousands of print readers and online visitors with cannabis-centered magazines Garden & Greenhouse and Professional Marijuana Grower). Together, the magazines reach a cornucopia of small commercial growers, hobby growers, hydroponic and indoor gardeners, licensed cannabis growing facilities, processors and dispensaries. The magazines complement NUGL Magazine, which covers cannabis industry news and how it affects the cannabis community.

In a dramatic development, NUGL just announced a binding letter of intent to purchase Nichols Publishing Company. In what can be viewed as complete confidence in NUGL’s future, Nichols Publishing agreed to be acquired in exchange for $1 million in NUGL common stock. Nichols Publishing was founded by Robin Nichols more than a decade ago, and its cannabis trade magazines have grown into well-known brands. Nichols will join NUGL following the acquisition and run the publications’ operation under the NUGL name.

With clear intentions to dominate the market for global connectivity as it relates to cannabis consumers and businesses, NUGL’s decision to acquire Nichols Publishing is likely just a beginning as it expands its platforms and global footprint to synergistically support cannabis consumers and cannabis industry growth.

The Epiphany

There’s zero question about the past growth of the marijuana market, and future growth looks even brighter. Although the sector shines even during market sell-offs and marijuana stocks are reaching new highs, some say the sector is top heavy and frothy. If true, from this point forward, nascent ancillary business that feed and support consumers, services and businesses in the cannabis industry may hold much greater upside potential.

Constellation Brands Inc. (NYSE: STZ) just made the largest investment to date in the cannabis space. The company is already a leading international producer and marketer of beer, wine and spirits. With the recent $4 billion investment, Constellation looks to accelerate market position, perhaps create cannabis-infused drinks and expand its portfolio in emerging cannabis markets around the globe.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG) is the world’s leading marketer of branded consumer lawn and garden products as well as hydroponic growing products. The company’s wholly owned subsidiary, The Hawthorne Gardening Company, is a leading provider of nutrients, lighting and other materials used in the hydroponic growing segment and now cannabis. The lawn and garden giant invested more than $1 billion in the past few years on a wide variety of companies that produce items connected to cannabis cultivation.

Terra Tech Corp. (OTCQX: TRTC) operates through multiple subsidiary businesses to provide both medical cannabis to patients and premium cannabis to the adult-use market in Nevada and California. The company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Edible Garden, cultivates a premier brand of local and sustainably grown hydroponic produce. Terra Tech’s MediFarm LLC subsidiaries are focused on medical and adult-use cannabis cultivation and permitting businesses throughout Nevada.

KushCo Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB) is the parent company to a diverse group of business units in the cannabis, cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabis-related industries. KushCo’s subsidiaries and brands provide exceptional customer service, product quality, compliancy knowledge and a local presence in serving a diverse customer base. KushCo Holdings’ brands include Kush Supply Company, Kush Energy, Hybrid Creative and Koleto Packaging Solutions.

For more information on NUGL, visit NUGL Inc. (OTC: NUGL)

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.

CBD Market Set for Huge Growth

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: In a fragile economic world, industries with significant growth forecast are certain to catch the eye of savvy investors looking for just the right place to be. Recent reports indicate that the cannabidiol (CBD) market is estimated to grow by 700 percent by 2020, and a report by market intelligence firm Hemp Business Journal projects that the CBD market will grow to $2.1 billion by 2020 (http://cnw.fm/7iczS), an astronomical jump in value compared to last year’s CBD market of $202 million. This news bodes well for hemp-focused companies such as Marijuana Company of America (OTC: MCOA) (MCOA Profile), whose hempSMART™ brand will be among the first CBD products to be marketed on a mass national TV commercial. Growth in hemp-based products is only a piece of the cannabis industry puzzle. The entire legal cannabis industry is expected to hit $57 billion by 2027, with recreational marijuana use making up 67 percent of that and medical marijuana use taking up the remaining 33 percent. Other companies positioning themselves to take advantage of this incredible growth include AbbVie, Inc. (NYSE: ABBV), CV Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB: CVSI), KushCo Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB), and Aurora Cannabis, Inc (OTCQX: ACBFF).

Capitalizing on the Power of CBD

Studies show that cannabidiol (CBD) possesses an array of therapeutic benefits, including antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. One of more than 85 cannabinoids identified in marijuana and hemp, CBD is typically used for health reasons and, unlike the more widely recognized compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is not psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t cause a high. CBD products can be derived from industrial hemp plants or marijuana plants.

Marijuana Company of America (MCOA Profile), an industrial hemp company, has capitalized on the power of CBD through its product research and development of legal hemp-based consumer products under the hempSMART brand, which targets general health and well-being. The products, which include drops and creams, are formulated to produce the finest botanical supplements on the market, derived from industrial hemp containing CBD compounds that help support the bodies endocannabinoid system.

A National Market Strategy and TV Commercial

 Earlier this month, MCOA announced (http://cnw.fm/WxIg1) that it had engaged Kim Castle of Verve Integrative to create a market strategy and manage a direct response television ad campaign to promote its hempSMART product line. Initially, hempSMART will be working with Verve Integrative to develop a market strategy and television commercial for its hempSMART Full Spectrum Pet Drops, which will air on cable networks this summer. The commercial spot will have featured placement on the official ecommerce site of a popular direct-response TV company and will be broadly promoted on integrated social media outlets.

“We are very pleased to partner with hempSMART on their journey to bring such thoughtful and well-developed products to the people who need natural relief and enhanced health solutions. I wish hempSMART™ Pet Drops were available to support my cherished dog when we were going through a health challenge together,” said Castle, who, along with her team, bring more than 25 years of experience in many variations of media strategy, development and production. Their clients include Disney, GM, ABC, Paramount, and Grey Group.

The team specializes in multipoint story experiences designed to educate, entertain and endorse while mirroring the human mind’s process of solving a problem, thereby supporting consumers in making emotional and logical product conclusions. Castle’s experience provides an invaluable edge to the hempSMART marketing campaign. Castle has also been an outspoken advocate of CBD as an alternative to traditional products currently on the market.

MCOA CEO Donald Steinberg noted that “Kim’s experience gives us an excellent opportunity to greatly expand the marketing strategy for the hempSMART brand and product line. We are honored that the hempSMART product line will be managed by her and the Verve Integrative team. We look forward to the new television commercial airing this summer.”

Pet Supplement Market Expanding

MCOA just launched its hempSMART Full Spectrum Pet Drops in February. The new specially formulated product contains naturally occurring CBD derived from hemp seed oil, full spectrum hemp extract, and fractionated coconut oil, along with a rich bacon flavor.

Sales of natural pet supplement sales nearly doubled between 2008 and 2011, and with an increasing focus on pet health, the market for pet supplements is projected to show significant and continuing expansion (http://cnw.fm/66NhV). Estimates show that U.S. retail sales of pet supplements and nutraceutical treats will grow 3 to 5 percent annually, bringing the market to almost $1.6 billion. Globally, the pet supplement market is also expected to experience tremendous growth.

Steinberg said, “Our new hempSMART product is a natural option for pet owners who care about supporting their animals’ healthy energy levels as well as optimizing their health. Our hempSMART product line will continue to expand to other popular areas of consumer interest to give our affiliates what they need to succeed.”

Wellness Environment Shifting toward CBD

The wellness industry is growing rapidly, generating an estimated $3.72 trillion annually (http://cnw.fm/d3Zs5). In addition, the attitude in the wellness environment is shifting regarding premium quality cannabinoid products. MCOA is one of the prominent companies working to give consumers access to technological innovations and the highest quality hemp-derived products.

Specifically designed to support normal bodily functions such as energy, flexibility, and overall wellness, hempSMART products are only the beginning for MCOA and its hempSMART division. MCOA is committed to find, test, and deliver the finest natural ingredients focused on wellness and personal care combined with the added benefits of hemp-based cannabinoids.

In addition to dedicating itself to the development of CBD-based nutritional products, MCOA is focused on educating and empowering consumers to learn about and become part of the hemp movement, thus allowing its customers to benefit from some of the world’s most innovative hemp products. The company is also dedicated to supporting the resurgence of green sustainable hemp-based products and technologies that have a positive effect on the environment.

Others Positioning in the Market

MCOA isn’t the only company deeply committed to making its presence felt in the burgeoning hemp and cannabis industries.

AbbVie (NASDAQ: ABBV) is a global, research-driven biopharmaceutical company committed to developing innovative advanced therapies for some of the world’s most complex and critical conditions. The company’s mission is to use its expertise, dedicated people and unique approach to innovation to markedly improve treatments across four primary therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, virology and neuroscience. With a cannabis-based drug already available on the market, pharmaceutical company AbbVie, is ahead of the pack in this industry. Its FDA-approved Marinol is approved for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and anorexia, and the drug may also help AIDS patients who have lost their desire to eat.

CV Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB: CVSI) operates two distinct business segments: a drug development division focused on developing and commercializing novel therapeutics utilizing synthetic CBD, and a consumer product division in manufacturing, marketing and selling plant-based CBD products to a range of market sectors. The company’s PlusCBD Oil™ has achieved immense success since the launch of its brand of dietary supplements. The brand is currently being sold in approximately 1,300 health food stores and continues to grow its shelf presence in various retail outlets across the country. “It’s evident that hemp-derived CBD products are doing better and growing faster than almost every other category in the supplement industry, and it’s been a long time since we’ve seen a supplement trend truly demonstrate demand in such an immense fashion,” said Stuart Tomc, vice president of human nutrition and spokesperson for CV Sciences. “There are no barriers to acceptance as the idea of hemp-derived CBD is finally ripe. Consumers are embracing hemp-derived CBD.”

The premier packaging company in the rapidly growing legal, regulated marijuana industry, KushCo Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB) is a dynamic sales and distribution platform that provides packaging, supplies, vaporizer products, hydrocarbons, accessories, and branding services to cannabis manufacturers, processors and retailers. Founded in 2010, Kush Bottles now has 12 facilities throughout the United States, a sales presence in every major cannabis market, and strives to be the go-to supplier and thought leader for businesses in the cannabis industry. KushCo recently announced that it had partnered with MainStem, a technology-based ancillary product distribution company for the regulated cannabis industry, to be the inaugural partner for MainStem’s Vendor Program (MVP).

An industry leading producer of medical cannabis, Aurora Cannabis, Inc (OTCQX: ACBFF) operates a 55,200-square-foot, state-of-the-art production facility in Mountain View County, Alberta, and a second 40,000-square-foot, high-technology production facility in Pointe-Claire, Quebec. In January 2018, Aurora’s 800,000 square-foot-flagship cultivation facility located at the Edmonton International Airport was licensed. When at full capacity, this facility is expected to produce over 100,000 kg per annum of cannabis. Aurora is also completing a facility in Lachute. In addition, the company just announced its intention to acquire MedReleaf Corp. (TSX: LEAF). This proposed transaction will bring together two of Canada’s premier cannabis companies with fully aligned strategic visions and production philosophies, as well as complementary assets, distribution networks, products, and capabilities. The combined company will meet what Aurora and MedReleaf management teams consider to be the critical success factors in the industry, creating a powerful platform for accelerated growth on a global scale.

For more information about Marijuana Company of America, please visit Marijuana Company of America (MCOA).

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

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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.

Opportunities for Growth Found in Burgeoning Cannabis Industry

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: The legalization of cannabis for recreational use in Canada appears to be certain by the end of summer. The legislation to begin that process was passed by the government in late 2017 and passed a second reading in the country’s Senate in March 2018; the final vote is scheduled for June of this year, and the passage appears all but certain. Approval of the law — along with the fact that recreational cannabis is already legal in nine U.S. states — will spark an industry that forecasts indicate may reach as high as $12B in North America (http://cnw.fm/Fem3T), an irresistible opportunity for companies in all areas of the cannabis industry, as well as for companies looking for new ways to grow. Among the companies positioning themselves to be top contenders in this potentially incredibly lucrative area are Global Payout, Inc. (GOHE) (GOHE Profile), Kush Bottles, Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB), General Cannabis Corporation (OTCQB: CANN), MassRoots Retail (OTC: MSRT), and Growlife, Inc. (OTCQB: PHOT).

Smart Companies Looking to Enter the Market

Cannabis as a growing market can’t be ignored, and smart companies are eager to identify ways to enter the market — even if they don’t grow or sell marijuana. These companies are taking advantage of innovative opportunities ranging from payment solutions, accessories, technology, medicine and more. Global Payout, Inc. (OTC: GOHE) has become a leader in providing cannabis companies with support in many different areas.

One of Global Payout’s most recent forays into the industry is its involvement — through partner MoneyTrac Technology (MTRAC) — with PotSaver, a southern California-based community magazine that provides information about discounted cannabis-related products for local dispensaries and shops. Moving forward, MTRAC will provide Pot Saver with fundamental support and guidance needed to execute its strategy (http://cnw.fm/8WqxF).

“With the medical and recreational cannabis industry growing at an unprecedented rate in California, we are determined to be conscious of the multiple opportunities that currently exist, or that we can create for MoneyTrac to further expand its brand throughout the industry as well as tap into every available revenue source possible,” said MTRAC COO Vanessa Luna. “This agreement with Pot Saver is an excellent opportunity for us to offer the industry-specific business development expertise we have acquired to help further PotSaver’s go-to-market strategy, while simultaneously creating a new source of revenue for our company as we continue to expand our own brand throughout the industry.”

Subscription Model Designed for Readers

Most recently, the PotSaver brand is expanding its sales and marketing efforts for MoneyTrac’s signature magazine publication by launching a subscription-based model (http://cnw.fm/B9gV4). This move provides subscribers with an electronic version of the publication emailed to them monthly. In addition, PotSaver has ramped up its social media efforts in an effort to grow its subscriber base and expand its presence in San Diego County.

In just one weekend, the PotSaver sales and marketing team acquired close to 1,000 new subscribers for its publication, which is distributed monthly to a variety of newsstand locations throughout San Diego. In the coming year, the company plans to focus on building a substantial subscriber list and moving away from its hard copy newsstand distribution model.

This move also allows PotSaver to provide much more targeting messaging and information. It also provides the company with more detailed information related to its subscribers, which will allow the publication to deliver an experience that is tailored more effectively to its readers.

“The launch of a subscription-based model truly represents the natural evolution of PotSaver,” said Aaron Adler, PotSaver founder. “We recognize we are in a market that is very much driven by a millennial population that demands convenience, and through a subscription they can now receive PotSaver every month right on their phone, tablet, or computer. The subscription-based model also creates an opportunity to target consumers in a more effective manner by leveraging geographic information to present them with a publication that offers them discounts closer to home, and more in line with their needs.”

An Alternative Finance Option

In addition to its involvement with PotSaver, Global Payout and MTRAC continue to lead the way in providing financial services for cannabis companies. Though the use and sale of medical marijuana is legal in 29 states (http://cnw.fm/c6Drq), federal legislation remains the same as when cannabis was included as part of the government’s intense war on drugs. Consequently, most financial institutions refuse to provide services to cannabis companies for fear of prosecution.

This means that cannabis merchants have been forced to work in a cash-only economy, creating both inefficiencies and higher risks of fraud, theft and accounting errors. As a result, cannabis companies have been searching for alternative payment methods. Global Payout and MoneyTrac technology are moving to provide that service.

A technology and business development company whose motto is “Key to Cashless™,” MoneyTrac works to provide an alternative to the more traditional banking and electronic finance options. In order to do so, MoneyTrac has leveraged blockchain technology, the leading way of transferring value outside of the mainstream banking sector. Blockchain is a distributed ledger system — a form of data keeping where responsibility for the record is shared across a network rather than kept in one place.

Blockchain payments offer cannabis companies numerous advantages. Any customer can access blockchain system, regardless of whether they have a bank account. Money transactions are made without any involvement with banks, which are wary about involvement in cannabis. Payments are almost instantaneous, and because transactions are recorded over a distributed network, no controllers are creating bottlenecks or the risk of a single point of failure.

MoneyTrac’s MTRAC payment system is powered by GreenBox blockchain technology (http://cnw.fm/GVSh6) and provides cannabis companies with a payment system that includes electronic payments, decreasing the risks and inefficiencies of working with cash. Customers can load a card or digital wallet at a MoneyTrac kiosk. Though currently focused on the cannabis market, this option may benefit other companies in high-risk sectors or that are searching for ways to benefit from blockchain.

An Intricate Knowledge of the Industry

MoneyTrac provides other support services for cannabis businesses as well. Many cannabis retailers are new to the industry and are exploring ways to best position themselves. Effective sales and marketing is always difficult for any business, but in a sector that is as heavily regulated as cannabis, it can be especially challenging.

The MoneyTrac team has garnered years of knowledge and experience in business development and can provide invaluable advice and support as team members guide clients through the challenges and opportunities that come with starting and running profitable businesses. Developed through strategic partnerships across the financial sector, MoneyTrac professionals possess an intricate knowledge of the cannabis industry and can ensure their clients are in regulatory compliance.

Cannabis Companies Vying for Position

Other companies are eager to provide ancillary goods and services in the cannabis world as they jockey for position in what looks to be one of the most financially rewarding opportunities of the year.

Headquartered in Santa Ana, California, Kush Bottles, Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB) sells packaging, containers, and other ancillary products for the cannabis industry. The company helps entrepreneurs entering the cannabis industry overcome barriers to entry. Kush Bottles is a one-stop shop for any business looking to operate responsibly and build its brand. Most recently, the company entered into a merger agreement to acquire Summit Innovations, a leading distributor of hydrocarbons to the legal cannabis industry (http://cnw.fm/uN0Un).  Hydrocarbon gases are used to turn cannabis plants into oils, and this acquisition marks Kush Bottles’ entry into a new business vertical supplying gas to cannabis extractors.

 General Cannabis Corporation (OTCQB: CANN) is a trusted partner in the cultivation, production and retail side of the cannabis business. The company operates a combination of strong operating divisions such as real estate, consulting, security, financing and the distribution of important infrastructure products to grow facilities and dispensaries. Just last month one of General Cannabis’s companies, Chiefton Supply Co., signed a distribution deal to supply national action sports retailer Tillys with its first hemp apparel brand (http://cnw.fm/31wBc). An exclusive run of Chiefton’s spring line of men’s T-shirts will be available in Tillys retail locations across the country, as well as purchase online.

 MassRoots Retail (OTC: MSRT) is one of the leading technology platforms for the cannabis industry. The company’s social platform is one of the largest communities of cannabis enthusiasts. Powered by more than one million registered users, MassRoots enables consumers to rate products and strains based on their efficacymand then presents this information in easy-to-use formats for consumers to make educated purchasing decisions at their local dispensary. Businesses are able to leverage MassRoots also provides a way for businesses to strategically advertise to consumers based on their preferences and tendencies.

Growlife, Inc. (OTCQB: PHOT) is a nationally recognized cultivation brand, providing world-class hydroponic equipment, lighting, nutrients, media, and other cultivation supplies to commercial and urban operations. Earlier this year, Growlife announced the launch of a new line of sustainable eco-friendly products for the indoor cultivation market (http://cnw.fm/KFa6T). These new products will allow GrowLife’s customers to play a role in providing a greener economic footprint compared to traditional indoor cultivation methods while remaining efficient on output and profitability.

Many companies are clearly eager to identify new ways to be part of the burgeoning cannabis industry—an industry set to explode within the coming months as the journey to legalization marches around the world.

For more information about Global Payout, Inc., please visit: Global Payout, Inc. (GOHE).

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)
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www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.net

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.

The Modern Cannabis Industry — A Tight Mesh of Integrated Verticals and Technologies

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: The number of adults in America who want marijuana legalized has nearly doubled since 2000, according to the latest Pew Research Center survey, which indicates 61 percent are now in favor (http://cnw.fm/1CdYE). During that same interval, the industry has evolved from a taboo underground into a clean and professional marketplace. Now the cannabis industry is on track to outpace the manufacturing sector in terms of job creation by 2020 (http://cnw.fm/ae5YX). The multiple, increasingly interwoven verticals now present in this booming industry run the gamut. However, payment solutions, such as those offered by Global Payout, Inc. (OTC: GOHE) (GOHE Profile), represent some of the most high-potential integrations. Other key verticals here, such as digital advertising and marketing from companies such as mCig, Inc. (OTCQB: MCIG), or the news, print and digital multimedia offerings of Freedom Leaf, Inc. (OTCQB: FRLF), further underscore how developed the sector has become. This is true even before one considers verticals like the packaging, branding and compliance solutions provided by companies such as Kush Bottles, Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB), or the hydroponic and indoor growing systems developed by Solis Tek, Inc. (OTCQB: SLTK).

Strategic Partnerships Detail Diversity

The numerous strategic partnerships developed by Global Payout, Inc.’s (OTC: GOHE) majority-owned subsidiary MoneyTrac Technology, Inc. (“MTRAC”) in recent months brilliantly reveal the intersect potential of cannabis, finance, compliance and banking. Moreover, with the completion of the requisite due diligence and final steps needed for a Regulation D, Rule 506(c) security offering, MTRAC is now poised to offer the cash-driven cannabis industry a helping hand via the launch of its MTRAC-Token (http://cnw.fm/Jf5Ra). Because the federal government’s regulations discourage banks from handling the proceeds of marijuana transactions, thousands of profitable businesses, often doing hundreds of thousands of dollars a month in sales legalized by their respective states, have had to risk managing day-to-day operations entirely in cash (http://cnw.fm/0ZTzc).

Cannabis Goes Crypto Cashless

By harnessing the power of blockchain technology, MTRAC-Token will offer the cannabis industry a cryptocurrency-based and decentralized non-cash payment system that lends itself to regulatory compliance. The company has even tapped full-service blockchain technology and token accelerator Pegasus Fintech, Inc., to assist in ensuring that accredited investors hop on board. Investors who may have otherwise shied away from financially backing the cannabis industry will subsequently get a unique opportunity to access the 15 to 26 percent CAGR leading analysts have projected for this sector over the next several years (http://cnw.fm/9wngD). Worth nearly $8 billion already (http://cnw.fm/r8H8c), the North American cannabis industry is still woefully underserved when it comes to basic but essential financial services.

A similar deal was more recently finalized with California-based GreenBox POS, LLC, whereby MTRAC will serve as a strategic sales and marketing resource to help nurture GeenBox’s advanced POS (point of sale) software and technology out of beta and into the market (http://cnw.fm/Df7yl). MTRAC CEO Vanessa Luna commented on the rich operational feature set of GreenBox’s POS platform, explaining that the “details, intricacies and overall effectiveness” of the technology is unrivaled by anything the company has seen before. Spanning everything from compliance, financial audit prep and expense tracking to tax payments and data fidelity controls, the sophistication of GreenBox’s software suite is rivaled only by its custom-built blockchain KIOSK solutions for cashless operations.

Compliance is Key

Having completed a joint-venture partnership agreement with compliance software and merchant payment solutions innovator Integrated Compliance Solutions, LLC, earlier this year, MTRAC is clearly pulling out all the stops to put together a robust de-risking solution for the retail cannabis space (http://cnw.fm/ITkO1). By leveraging the company’s core fintech competencies and a growing network of strategic partners, Global Payout is unifying the concepts of “seed to bank” and “banking the unbankable” in a compliance-centric fashion expected to appease even the most stringent of regulators. This is a move by the company that is commensurate with the maturation of the sector into a fully modern and respectable industry — an industry on the road to potentially becoming a $24 billion-plus nationwide market by 2025 and that now has the muscle of California, the nation’s highest gross domestic product state, firmly behind it (http://cnw.fm/3DnZi).

Why it’s Worth the Fight

With over 100 million Americans suffering from some form of chronic pain and over 2 million addicted to prescription pain killers such as opioids, the development of compliance-friendly solutions to legal cannabis financing by Global Payout could be akin to a lifesaving measure because of the drug’s reputation as a less dangerous pain relief alternative. The importance of seeking such solutions is addressed in a recent report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Committee on “The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids,” which noted that “evidence regarding the short- and long-term health effects of cannabis use remains elusive” despite myriad studies that have examined cannabis use in all its forms, and that “often these research conclusions are not appropriately synthesized, translated for, or communicated to policy makers, health care providers, state health officials, or other stakeholders who have been charged with influencing and enacting policies, procedures, and laws related to cannabis use.” (http://cnw.fm/2lCHx). Another data point of importance is North America’s dominance of the $5.5 billion chronic pain therapy market (http://cnw.fm/4NIfq), nearly $2 billion of which is represented by the top three Medicare opioids.

Expanding Retail Network

The execution of a sales partnership and commission agreement in early February with Eyechronic cannabis media network operator and award-winning retail technology company Eyeconic.tv will allow MTRAC to reach customers in-store at the nearly 300 medical and retail dispensaries in Eyechronic’s nationwide partner network (http://cnw.fm/4X9xd). Combined with the already sizeable network of dispensaries MTRAC has cultivated relationships with via its PotSaver brand publication, the Eyechronic deal will give Global Payout serious ground game in California.

Sales and Marketing Support

MTRAC is wasting no time capitalizing on this advantage. The company recently expanded the sales team for its PotSaver brand in order to extend its reach beyond the thriving San Diego market into the surrounding metro areas. This includes the massive Los Angeles market, where many dispensaries have already received their licenses. This expansion is shrewdly timed to fully enable the debut of the company’s premier LA publication, slated for the second quarter of 2018 (http://cnw.fm/eWy6K). The retail technology benefits of the Eyechronic deal will overlap nicely with the sales and marketing management agreement signed earlier this year with High Grade Management Group, Inc. The deal is designed to facilitate the launch of High Grade’s Apple Vapes line of products through a sophisticated marketing campaign (http://cnw.fm/If2VZ).

The concentrates that go into vape cartridges are the fastest-growing segment of the cannabis market, and vapes are the largest slice of the pie across the major state markets. Up 37.5 percent in Colorado last year alone, concentrates easily outpaced the 25 percent growth seen by edibles, raking in $131 million in that state alone (http://cnw.fm/S3n4X). As further evidence of the potential for MTRAC’s vapes deal with California marijuana delivery service Eaze tracked a whopping 400 percent growth rate for its vape cartridges from 2015 to 2016 (http://cnw.fm/oQZ0d).

A Wide Open Market

From payment solutions and vaporizer pens to multimedia and advertising, the sheer variety of heavily integrated verticals now present within the cannabis sector is dizzying. And Global Payout is by no means alone in its efforts to bring cannabis consumer solutions to market.

Although perhaps more often referenced as a cannabinoid R&D biotech company known for its industrial hemp and nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products, mCig, Inc. (OTCQB: MCIG) has made significant strides of late via the company’s Obitx, Inc. (OBITX) subsidiary, to become a leader in digital advertising and marketing for the cannabis industry (http://cnw.fm/xCl85). The recent announcement of an S-1 registration, with the intent to spin off subsidiary Obitx into its own separate public company, marks a major milestone for this heavily diversified sector operator. The company’s announcement in late January (http://cnw.fm/1tKqt) that mCig will expand beyond its already full spectrum of hemp CBD skin products into CBD-based pet wellness products that directly address the $110 billion global pet care market (http://cnw.fm/ZsaJ3) provides further evidence of its diversification.

Another heavy hitter in cannabis sector digital media is the increasingly vertically integrated Freedom Leaf, Inc. (OTCQB: FRLF), which has established itself as a leading go-to resource for news and information via the company’s flagship publication, Freedom Leaf Magazine (http://cnw.fm/0wuI9). Freedom Leaf has also made strides of late to leverage the company’s considerable business consulting, as well as M&A expertise, in order to branch out further into the product end of the market. The company’s recent joint venture supply agreement with NutraFuels, Inc. (OTC: NTFU), whereby Freedom Leaf will assist in the formulation, blending and private labeling of NutraFuels’ Ayurvedic Breathable Vapor Oils, is a hallmark of this trend (http://cnw.fm/1QiSd). In support of this move, the company also fully acquired the Spanish hemp products producer Green Market Europe S.L., in January (http://cnw.fm/hQHO6). Green Market has indoor facilities totaling over 64,000 square feet and over 200 acres of outdoor production space.

Widely known in the industry for its packaging, supplies and accessories, Kush Bottles, Inc. (OTCQB: KSHB) recently announced a $6 million investment from private equity fund Merida Capital Partners, which will help the company reach out into new distribution channels and invest in new products (http://cnw.fm/1pKoE). This announcement followed fast on the heels of a sweeping Future Farm Technologies, Inc. (OTC: FFRMF) deal, which has Kush Bottles supporting Future Farm’s expansion into new cannabis and hemp territories such as California, Massachusetts, Maine, Florida and Puerto Rico (http://cnw.fm/s9PLf). Kush was selected by Future Farm because of the company’s superb reputation for high-quality cannabis packaging and branding, as well as tailored compliance solutions.

Branching out in a different way, Solis Tek, Inc. (OTCQB: SLTK) represents another key vertical of the matured cannabis market — one that is at the heart of the entire industry: growing hardware. As Kevin Kuethe, COO of cultivator and biopharma R&D powerhouse GB Sciences recently put it, GB’s “heaviest yields to date” can be chalked up in part to the ability of the Solis Tek fixtures and lights to deliver a hearty “diet of light” that closely mimics sunlight (http://cnw.fm/jE12T). For GB Sciences, which is geared towards standardized cultivation and consistent quality, Solis Tek’s focus on science sets the company’s hardware apart from the competition. Consistent quality and high yields are the name of the game for many cultivators, and dominating this essential vertical is SLTK’s specialty.

Diversity Comes of Age

It is evident that more and more sector operators are looking to diversify into complementary, upward parallels. And while the advanced payment solutions developed by a company such as Global Payout might be the low-hanging fruit due largely to the need to overcome banking regulatory compliance hurdles, it is the growing diversity of this truly modern industry that should instill investors with confidence in its future.

For more information on Global Payout, Inc., visit Global Payout, Inc. (GOHE).

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