Category: Policy

Canada and the United States may be the two most well-known cannabis markets, but Australia’s changing laws could pave the way toward becoming an industry leader. After legalizing the export of medical cannabis, the country could become one of just three countries that are exporting high-quality product en masse. The domestic market could also break the $1 billion mark by 2020, making it a significant opportunity in its own right.

Becoming a Cannabis Leader

Australia’s federal government legalized medical cannabis back in February 2016, making it one of the first developed countries to embrace the drug’s medicinal benefits — and some experts believe that the country’s domestic medical cannabis market could hit $1 billion by 2020. In January, the country further announced that it was legalizing the overseas export of medical cannabis in a bid to capitalize on a market projected to reach $55 billion by 2025.

Unfortunately, the country’s arduous licensing process and substantial finance requirements have slowed the rollout of domestic production and consumption. Many cultivators may still be at least a year away from a commercial crop and medical practitioners are still somewhat hesitant to prescribe medical cannabis, although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval of GW Pharmaceutical plc’s (GWPH) Epidiolex is certainly a positive development.

The largest producers of medical cannabis for export right now are Canada and the Netherlands. With federal level medical and adult-use legalization, Canada has become the leader in the space while the Netherlands has the best known cannabis brands and the longest track record in the space. The largest importers of medical cannabis are Germany and Croatia, but many European markets are entering into the fold as laws liberalize.

Where to Invest in the Country

Investors looking for exposure to Australia’s medical cannabis industry have many different options, but some companies are closer to commercialization than others.

The Hydroponics Company Ltd. (ASX: THC) recently announced the import of the first medicinal cannabis products from its European strategic partner — Endoca. After securing import permits, the company is ready to immediately distribute the products to Australian patients under the government’s Special Access Scheme or through an Approved Prescriber using the Medical Cannabis Medicines Portal (MCMP) that streamlines the process.

“THC’s program to bring Endoca products to Australia is the first step in providing Australia with high quality medicinal cannabis solutions, which will extend to local organic growing and pharmaceutical GMP manufacture as we roll out our partner and domestic production strategy,” said Hydroponics Co. Chairman Steven Xu.

These products will provide medical practitioners with non-psychoactive cannabis-based products, including its CBD+CBDa raw product that’s unique in Australia. In addition to the high-quality products, the company is positioning itself to generate near-term revenue before it can begin domestic cultivation.

Looking Ahead

Australia’s medical cannabis market is slowly maturing and the country has the potential to become a leading exporter over time. While the market is maturing, investors may want to consider companies with near-term commercialization potential, such as The Hydroponics Company Ltd. (ASX: THC), which recently imported the first batch of medical cannabis products into the country.

The post How to Invest in Australia’s Medical Cannabis Market appeared first on CannabisFN.

In a move destined to potentially change the face of medical cannabis, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today approved a cannabinoid-derived drug for the first time. Epidiolex is a twice-daily oral solution is meant to treat people ages two years and up who suffer from severe seizure disorders Dravet syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. An FDA advisory committee recommended the drug for approval in April.

“Today’s approval of Epidiolex is a historic milestone, offering patients and their families the first and only FDA-approved CBD medicine to treat two severe, childhood-onset epilepsies,” said Justin Gover, CEO of GW Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: GWPH), makers of the drug, in a statement. “This approval is the culmination of GW’s many years of partnership with patients, their families, and physicians in the epilepsy community to develop a much needed, novel medicine. These patients deserve and will soon have access to a cannabinoid medicine that has been thoroughly studied in clinical trials, manufactured to assure quality and consistency, and available by prescription under a physician’s care.”

Epidiolex will hit the market in October and is expected to be a blockbuster drug. In clinical trials, the medication was shown to reduce seizures by about 40 percent. While only approved to treat two forms of epilepsy, it is possible Epidiolex will be prescribed “off-label” for other conditions.

“This product approval demonstrates that advancing sound scientific research to investigate ingredients derived from marijuana can lead to important therapies,” FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb said in a statement today adding the approval was “an important medical advance.”

“In my practice, I often see patients with these highly treatment-resistant epilepsies who have tried and failed existing therapies and are asking about CBD,” said Orrin Devinsky, M.D., of NYU Langone Health’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Center and a lead investigator in the Epidiolex clinical program. “I am delighted that my physician colleagues and I will now have the option of a prescription cannabidiol that has undergone the rigor of controlled trials and been approved by the FDA to treat both children and adults.”

Now that the FDA has approved Epidiolex, the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) will have 90 days to reschedule CBD, the non-psychoactive cannabinoid responsible for the medication’s effects. Currently, CBD is a Schedule I narcotic with “no known medical benefit.” The move is expected to have huge implications for the CBD market nationwide, which currently operates in a legal gray area.

“We don’t have a choice on that,” DEA public affairs officer Barbara Carreno said in an interview with Business Insider. “It absolutely has to become Schedule 2 or 3.”

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The budding legal cannabis industry is a competitive place – and rightly so. According to analysts, domestic marijuana sales could exceed a staggering $57 billion by 2027, making it no surprise that lots of people want to get in while the getting’s good while establishing their dominance in a newly emerging market. One group, Industry Power Women (IPW), is on a mission to ensure that anyone – regardless of gender – has the chance to become a leader within the space. However, they have a special focus on assisting female cannabis entrepreneurs.

According to Forbes, less than 6% of those making decisions at venture capital firms in the United States are women. This is reflected in the amount of money being invested into female entrepreneurs.

In 2016 male entrepreneurs received more than $58 billion in capital funding. That same year, female entrepreneurs only received $1.46 billion in funding. So women received approximately 2.5% of what the men received.

Pair these statistics for fundraising with the reduced amount of investment that the cannabis industry overall has to access capital, due to the industry being based on a federally illegal substance, and the struggle that female entrepreneurs face in fundraising increases exponentially.

Marijuana Business Daily reports that women made up approximately 27 percent of executive level roles in the cannabis industry in 2017, compared to the national average of 23 percent. That number rises to 42 percent if you only count ancillary cannabis businesses (such as apps and paraphernalia). Women also hold approximately 35 percent of executive-level positions in cannabis dispensaries.

There is an opportunity for women to make the cannabis industry the first industry to reach 50% representation on every level. The IPW mission is to assist women in achieving the resources and success necessary to make this a reality.

IPW is a network of women working together to propel women business owners into greater economic, social and political spheres of power within their industry through relationships and strategic partnerships.

“The organization was founded as an exclusive cannabis business network that directly facilitates access for vetted female cannabis entrepreneurs to the media and capital that will support their success,”  explains IPW Co-Founder Cynthia Salarizadeh, managing partner of KCSA Strategic Communications, which recently acquired her communications firm Salar Media Group, Founder of the cannabis industry newswire and entrepreneur tech platform AxisWire, as well as the Co-Founder of the Green Market Report.

Cynthia decided to create IPW after noticing a lack of resources for females who were looking for their slice of the burgeoning cannabis industry pie. She explained that “IPW is able to provide access to the relationships that fulfil their resource needs because we are able to work together and provide these resources based on the collective collaboration among women operating at the highest levels of the cannabis industry.”

Women who have been working in cannabis for the last 20 years needed the same help that women entering over the last 5 years needed. “They need money to operate and media to generate exposure for investment as well as to acquire market share for revenue,” expressed an IPW CO-Founder Jamie Cooper, she is also the Founder of Cannabiz Connection and Kola Marketing.

One of the many ways that IPW helps to expose female entrepreneurs, their brands and accomplishments, is through their production of a multimedia series titled the Wonder Women of Weed. This is a platform that was created in partnership with Benzinga.com and DCN Media. It is co-hosted by Javier Hasse & Adelia Carrillo and features interviews with the industry’s leading women in business and advocacy. The series has been syndicated and the interviews have been featured on Yahoo Finance, Entrepreneur and MSN through its partners. It has highlighted power women such as Jodie Emery, Amanda Ostrowitz and Sara Gulickson to name a few.  

“The IPW network and its resources bridges the gap between women and business growth. Once a brand is developed, the two most significant pieces that determine success are media and capital,” explained fellow IPW Co-founder Ophelia Chong, Founder of Stock Pot Images , Asian Americans for Cannabis Education and co-founder of Bevel Group.

The women associated with this organization provide a direct route, essentially a powerful black book, to resources that support female entrepreneurs and their business goals.

“A team effort is necessary for the nascent industry to thrive,” stated another IPW Co-Founder Debra Borchardt, also the Co-Founder, CEO, Editor & Chief and financial brains behind the influential finance news site Green Market Report.

“Having a group like this is critical because it brings together female cannabis executives so they know they have a support network to directly accelerate introductions and engagement,” she says. “We learned that many of us face the same executive challenges and having a group to lean on and be inspired by is imperative for all of us to succeed.”

Salarizadeh stressed that IPW is a place where women can build each other up while also growing their businesses, away from the shark-like nature of many traditional networking events and expos as well as it providing the comfort of knowing that everyone in the room was selected to add value to the experience.

“This network was created to help recognize and advance females in cannabis business to immediately grow our brands,” explained Devika Maskey, another IPW Co-Founder as well as the Founder & CEO of the luxury cannabis brand TSO Sonoma. “We have found a comfortable environment with our formula and the introductions are priceless.”

At its core, the co-founders have stressed that IPW is a network for women to engage without having chapters or paid events to come out of pocket for. The concept was created solely to facilitate beneficial relationships. IPW fundraises the exact cost of each event so those invited can attend and focus on networking without stress.

IPW has already held several successful brunch networking events around the country with a few more in the works throughout the rest of 2018. The events feature carefully selected speakers, investors, media, pitches by the most promising female entrepreneurs and their ventures, and networking opportunities in a relaxed, professional and exclusive atmosphere.

The second annual Industry Power Women awards will take place on Thursday, November 14 in Las Vegas. This awards program was designed to recognize and honor the most accomplished female cannabis entrepreneurs, advocates, thought leaders and industry veterans who are inspiring others to chase their dreams.

“Over the next year IPW has some incredible projects that we will begin to unveil as tools and platforms available for every woman in cannabis business to utilize and benefit from,” explained IPW Co-Founder as well as Founder & CEO of Potnt Agency, Jennifer Price. “The women in this industry will be the shining example of what women in business throughout every industry can achieve, especially together.”  

The post Industry Power Women Paves the Way for Female Cannabis Entrepreneurs appeared first on CannabisFN.

The cannabis industry is projected to exceed $50 billion by 2026, according to Cowen & Co., driven by the legalization of medical and adult-use cannabis across a growing number of states. Despite the enormous market opportunity, many professionally-managed Wall Street funds have stayed away from the market due to the stigma and regulatory risks. But, there are a couple of exceptions for investors looking for exposure to the space.

The Arcadian Fund is a professionally-managed investment vehicle that provides Limited Partners with diverse exposure to the ancillary sectors of the cannabis industry. The fund seeks to capitalize industry leaders, connect companies to resources, identify new revenue streams, and prepare them for mergers, exits, and/or capital markets, with an emphasis on technological advancement rather than companies involved with handling the drug itself.

By avoiding companies that touch the cannabis plant, the company avoids many of the regulatory hurdles, zoning restrictions, banking restrictions, interstate commerce issues, and other risks associated with the cannabis industry.

The fund’s primary focus is on ancillary parts of the industry, such as:

1. Technology – Agricultural technology, testing, tracking, and software.
2. Media – Online, print, trade shows, seminars, and advertising.
3. Services – Legal, compliance, accounting, HR, and insurance.
4. Products – Cultivation specific processing, manufacturing, IP, and licensing.
5. Data – Consumer analytics, forecasting, distribution, and purchasing.

The fund’s holdings include companies like:

• High Times Cannabis Cup – The most recognizable brand in the cannabis industry that has been the go-to media source since 1974.
• BDS Analytics – A data packaging company focused on providing actionable tools for participants across the cannabis industry.
• Kush Bottles – A leading provider of cannabis packaging and related materials to a rapidly growing list of dispensaries nationwide.
• Wurk – A provider of intuitive platforms to manage payroll, HR, timekeeping, scheduling, and compliance with a focus on cannabis companies.
• Treez – A provider of software that automates and optimizes cannabis dispensary options, ranging from employee management to inventory control.
• Baker – A leading provider of data products for cannabis companies, ranging from real time inventory management to loyalty programs.

The Arcadian Fund is managed by Matthew Nordgren, an ambitious executive, dedicated philanthropist, and accomplished athlete who brings a unique passion to creating strategic alliances. In addition to playing professional football, he started a private equity business focusing on sports and entertainment.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Arcadian Fund, visit the fund’s website at www.arcadianfund.com or email info@arcadianfund.com.

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U.S. Senators Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and U.S. Representatives David Joyce (R-Ohio) and Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) today introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States Act (STATES Act) to ensure that each state has the right to determine for itself the best approach to marijuana within its borders. The bill also extends these protections to Washington D.C, U.S. territories, and federally recognized tribes, and contains common-sense guardrails to ensure that states, territories, and tribes regulating marijuana do so safely.

Forty-six states currently have laws permitting or decriminalizing marijuana or marijuana-based products – and Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and a number of tribes have similar laws. As states developed their own approaches to marijuana enforcement, the Department of Justice issued guidance to safeguard these state actions and ensure practical use of limited law enforcement resources. However, this guidance was withdrawn earlier this year, creating legal uncertainty, threatening public health and safety, and undermining state regulatory regimes.

“In 2012, Coloradans legalized marijuana at the ballot box and the state created an apparatus to regulate the legal marijuana industry.  But because of the one-size-fits-all federal prohibition, state decisions like this put Colorado and other states at odds with the federal government,” said Senator Gardner. “The federal government is closing its eyes and plugging its ears while 46 states have acted.  The bipartisan STATES Act fixes this problem once and for all by taking a states’ rights approach to the legal marijuana question. The bipartisan, commonsense bill ensures the federal government will respect the will of the voters – whether that is legalization or prohibition – and not interfere in any states’ legal marijuana industry.”

“Outdated federal marijuana laws have perpetuated our broken criminal justice system, created barriers to research, and hindered economic development,” said Senator Warren. “States like Massachusetts have put a lot of work into implementing common sense marijuana regulations – and they have the right to enforce their own marijuana policies. The federal government needs to get out of the business of outlawing marijuana.”

“We should trust the people of the states, like Ohio, who have voted to implement responsible common-sense regulations and requirements for the use, production, and sale of cannabis,” said Representative Joyce. “If the people of these states have decided to provide help for those veterans and others suffering from pain and other health issues, we should allow them access without government interference.”

“For too long the senseless prohibition of marijuana has devastated communities, disproportionately impacting poor Americans and communities of color. Not to mention, it’s also wasted resources and stifled critical medical research,”said Representative Blumenauer. “It’s past time to put the power back in the hands of the people. Congress must right this wrong.”

Ignoring the ability of states, territories, and tribes to determine for themselves what type of marijuana regulation works best comes with real costs. Legitimate businesses that comply with state laws are blocked from access to basic banking services. Illicit markets often spring up and local law enforcement must divert resources needed elsewhere. Thousands of people are prosecuted and locked up in our criminal justice system. Qualified scientists and state public health departments struggle to conduct basic and epidemiological research or spur medical advances, and the fundamental nature of state and tribal sovereignty is violated. As more states, territories, and tribes thoughtfully consider updates to marijuana regulations, often through voter-initiated referendums, it is critical that Congress take immediate steps to safeguard their right to do so by passing the STATES Act.

The legislation has been endorsed by organizations including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Americans for Prosperity, Americans for Safe Access, Americans for Tax Reform, the Brennan Center for Justice, Campaign for Liberty, the Competitive Enterprise Institute, the Cooperative Credit Union Association, the Drug Policy Alliance, the Institute for Liberty, LatinoJustice PRLDEF, the Law Enforcement Action Partnership, the Marijuana Policy Project, the Massachusetts Bankers Association, the Maine Credit Union League, the Mountain West Credit Union Association, the National Cannabis Bar Association, the National Cannabis Industry Association, the National Conference of State Legislatures, the New Federalism Fund, NORML, the Northwest Credit Union Association, R Street, and the Taxpayers Protection Alliance.

The STATES Act:

• Amends the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) so that – as long as states and tribes comply with a few basic protections – its provisions no longer apply to any person acting in compliance with State or tribal laws relating to marijuana activities.

• Clearly states that compliant transactions are not trafficking and do not result in proceeds of an unlawful transaction.

• Removes industrial hemp from the list of controlled substances under the CSA.

• The following federal criminal provisions under the CSA continue to apply:
  • Prohibits endangering human life while manufacturing marijuana.
  • Prohibits employment of persons under age 18 in drug operations.

• Prohibits the distribution of marijuana at transportation safety facilities such as rest areas and truck stops.

• Prohibits the distribution or sale of marijuana to persons under the age of 21 other than for medical purposes.

A fact sheet about the legislation is available here, and the full bill text is available here.

The post Gardner, Warren, Joyce and Blumenauer Unveil Bicameral, Bipartisan Legislation to Protect State Marijuana Policies appeared first on CannabisFN.

The legal cannabis market in California is poised to be a multi-billion dollar industry, mere months after the beginning of adult-use sales. Nowhere was this more evident than at the California Cannabiz Expo at The Magic Box in Downtown Los Angeles. The innovative event, presented by California Weed Blog and Canna Newswire, featured dozens of speakers and exhibitors representing five sectors of this quickly emerging industry.

California Cannabiz Expo offered attendees a unique experience by utilizing an art gallery approach in lieu of the traditional expo floor often seen at other conferences. Guests perused the categories of extraction, beauty, tech, edibles, and cultivation. Advocacy groups were also on hand to educate conference goers and encourage them to get involved.

“I thought the synergistic nature of the event was really interesting,” said Brett Johnson, CEO of SpectrumGro, who flew in from Denver for the event. “We focus on several areas of the cannabis supply chain and it was sort of like being at a one-stop shop for new business.”

“Our concept for the event was to create a California State-Specific watering hole for the licensed cannabis community to Network, Learn and Grow,” explained Brad Slaughter, Co-founder of California Weed Blog. “We created a circular floor plan to streamline traffic flow, industry-related themed rooms to spark creativity and direct attendees to the part of the industry they’re specifically looking for to grow their business, and a networking area in the center to breath life back onto the floor. All of our keynote speakers and panelists were hand-selected to represent specific areas of the industry that they work in to provide a vast array of detailed knowledge on the California market.

Well-Rounded Panels Aim to Educate

Those looking to gain insider knowledge of the marijuana market were offered several informative and engaging panels on a variety of topics, led by some of the top entrepreneurs and experts in the space. Subjects such as law, tech, extraction science, activism, and women in cannabis were all explored.

“The speakers were the highlight of the event,” said attendee Dan Schmink. “Their passion and expertise for their endeavors could be felt during each panel. The compliance and investment panels, in particular, showcased the finesse and understanding required to navigate California’s transitioning market. I’m a data nerd at heart and found the most long-term value in hearing the tech startups describe their approach to optimizing the cannabis experience – both for business and consumers alike.”

“We at California Weed Blog really advocate for education and pride ourselves on being a resource for the cannabis community,” added Slaughter. “We’re increasingly getting more and more questions about the cannabis industry not just from consumers about products, dispensaries and clean meds but also a noticeable influx of questions coming from businesses on everything from how to navigate the California regulations, how to get ahead of compliance and who they should be talking to. This was really the catalyst and what drove us to create this event in support of our home state.

Live Auditions of Popular Cannabis Reality Show Attract Entrepreneurs

In addition to learning about trends in what could be the world’s largest legal cannabis market, attendees had the opportunity to gain funding before the show even closed. Hit Amazon Prime series The Marijuana Show held live auditions, giving entrepreneurs the chance to pitch their canna-businesses to investors hungry for the next big thing. Dubbed the Shark Tank of cannabis, The Marijuana Show aims to ensure anyone with a good idea can potentially be part of this emerging market.

“CannaBiz was the kind of event where you could really feel the collaborative spirit industry,” said Karen Paull, Co-producer of The Marijuana Show. “And the way this cannabis economy is going to move forward is through collaboration because we are trying to create a new industry together.”

California on Track to be World’s Largest Legal Cannabis Market

Analysts predict that California’s legal marijuana market with be worth over $5 billion by the end of 2019, with no signs of slowing down. John Sidline, Principal of Canna Newswire, believes that California CannaBiz Expo has set itself as a must-attend for anyone looking to be a serious player in this emerging space.

“Virtually all other cannabis trade events cater almost exclusively to the wants of their exhibitors, but CannaBiz Expo producers focused primarily on the attendee experience,” said Sidline. “There is a cannabis industry event of some significance almost every month – if not multiple times per month – which is too many. Those events that deliver value for both exhibitors and attendees stand the best chance of survival, and CannaBiz Expo looks like they’re working on a winning formula.”

The post California Cannabiz Expo Wrap-Up appeared first on CannabisFN.

As much as the cannabis industry doesn’t agree, the world sees recreational of marijuana as a vice. This puts it in the same category of other vices like tobacco, alcohol and pornography when it comes to public perception and governmental oversight. This negative impression, justified or not, along with the ambiguity of federal laws has made many large internet companies uneasy and unwilling to take money from questionable products.

This has created a huge disadvantage to cannabis companies that are trying to advertise their products and build their brands. The internet has become the most powerful tool for the entire advertising industry, and 2017 was the first year that internet ad spend surpassed television and the domination of digital ads are only predicted to increase for the foreseeable future.

Like other “vice” products, federal, state and local governments have passed laws limiting how cannabis can be marketed. California, for example, requires that, “any advertising or marketing placed in broadcast, cable, radio, print and digital communications shall only be displayed where at least 71.6 percent of the audience is reasonably expected to be 21 years of age or older, as determined by reliable, up­-to­-date audience composition data.”

I am not sure why they chose 71.6 percent instead of, say 70, but either way the regulation falls flat when regulating digital advertising since it is difficult to determine the age of a person seeing an ad on an internet browser. That leaves the publishers at least partly responsible for the who may or may not have seen prohibited advertisements, a place where they would rather not be.

When studying the digital ad ecosystem you start to realize that there is really only two companies. Google started as a search engine, but it is really an ad network. Facebook is a social media platform but its business model is build on being an ad network. These two companies, number two and six of the biggest public companies in the world, have been able to capture an unprecedented part of the worlds ad spend. In the U.S., the biggest digital ad market and four times bigger than the U.K. in second place, Google and Facebook have been estimated to be 73% of all of the digital ad.

The reason that each company has been able to insert themselves as a dominant force in the global marketing landscape is that both of them get better with size. As they understand more and more about the audience and the ads that they can price placements and direct ads better than any other company in the world. For brands big and small, anywhere in the world, they offer an easy, pay-­per-­view digital marketing campaign. For publications they are a way to monetize their precious traffic without having to make one sales call.

Neither of these two internet giants wants to wade into the murky waters of promoting controlled substances. Neither allows ads for other “potentially harmful” products like tobacco, guns, alcohol or pornography. It doesn’t seem like either will be getting more lenient any time soon.

Google has staked its claim on its its revamped motto, “do no harm” (formally “don’t be evil”) even though it cost them access to the entire mainland Chinese population. Facebook is already in the hot seat for its controversial sales of bulk data to companies like Cambridge Analytica.

While Google and Facebook are THE ad networks globally, they are by no means the only option for digital advertising. Many publications are fine with having cannabis ads on their websites but having to find out which ones is a daunting task. The disconnect between cannabis companies looking to pay money for their ads to be seen online and publication trying to best monetize their traffic has created a space for niche ad networks to service the cannabis community.

“Facebook continues to pursue their digital raids and shutting peoples accounts and pages that are cannabis-­focused. I don’t see that changing any time soon,” said Christian Valdez, co­founder of digital cannabis ad network TrafficRoots. He sees this as an opportunity lost for the big networks. “Average cost per thousand impressions on Google AdSense is between seventy five cents to a dollar. For cannabis ads it is closer to five dollars.” The market for profitable cannabis companies that want to participate in the digital ad world has collided with the small amount of outlets for them, driving the prices up.

Savvy marketers have found creative ways to work around Facebook and Google’s direct ad band. Some are using social media influencers or generating educational content that can be easily shared. These strategies have their downsides as Christian sees it, “There are brands that are using influencers to reach an audience, but that approach can’t be scaled and there is no analytics to show if there is an ROI. Educational or awareness content might be able to squeeze through Facebook but content sometimes need manual approval so companies run the risk of getting flagged and placed on their radar.” Even educational content has seen a crackdown lately. YouTube recently shut down a number of popular educational cannabis channels.

The internet has empowered content creators. It allowed them to broadcast their message to the world without having to go through the traditional publishing funnels. But being able to have a nearly unlimited amount of people go to a website and being able to make money off of that traffic are different things. To do that websites have had to succumb to the two de facto gatekeepers of digital advertising. But the same decentralization that has led the internet to be the most profitable medium in the world also provides ways for cannabis companies to find an audience.

Digital ad networks are the most scalable, targeted and cost effective ways to advertise. Even though the bulk of the worlds marketing budget goes through two powerful aggregators, there is still space for small networks to work with industries that can’t find promotional outlets any other way.

The future of the cannabis industry will not be like the one we see today. Strong brands will be established and will want to use ads to jockey for position against their competitors. These ads will need to be where the eyeballs are and that is and increasingly will be the internet. Even though it might be a while before cannabis producers can have the same types of marketing campaigns as other consumer products it looks like the emergence of industry specific ad networks can now help the stake out a presence online.

The post Google and Facebook Can’t Stop the Digital Marketing of Cannabis appeared first on CannabisFN.

On May 11th-13th, 3,200 cannabis business owners, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders gathered in The Big Easy for MJBizConNEXT. Focused on emerging innovations within the cannabis space, the conference drew celebrities, seasoned industry veterans, and those looking to begin their own foray into the fast-growing legal marijuana market.

“There has been so much excitement about this event,” said Cassandra Farrington, Co-Founder and CEO of MJBiZDaily, presenters of the event. “We keep a very sharp focus on the people who are looking to establish and run a business and what they need to know in order to do that successfully in the cannabis industry, all the way from those looking to get their first licenses up to rockstars like Gene Simmons. There are so many high-level, real decision-makers in this room having really great conversations that absolutely will drive their businesses forward.”

MJBizDaily has quickly become the industry leaders in education with the overall goal of advancing cannabis business interests. Their events are known as a must-attend for anyone looking to be a part of what is on track to be a multi-billion dollar global market.

Event Attracts Thought Leaders, Rock Stars

There were many high-profile speakers at this year’s MJBizConNEXT, covering topics ranging from 280E to extraction sciences. Shark Tank star and O’Shares ETFs President Kevin O’Leary offered an entertaining and educational keynote presentation, offering tips on what to look for in the coming months as support for cannabis reform continues to climb worldwide. KISS frontman Gene Simmons addressed the MJBizLIVE crowd, discussing his recent appointment as Chief Evangelism Officer to InvictusMD, a Canadian cannabis holding company.

Republican Congressman Tom Garrett of Virginia’s 5th district gave an impassioned speech, imploring conference attendees to engage their elected officials in order to change laws. The lawmaker introduced H.R. 1227 – also known as the Ending Federal Prohibition on Marijuana Act – in early 2017.

“We could pass my bill tomorrow if we could get it to the floor,” Rep. Garrett told CFN. “I have no doubt that we’d have a bipartisan majority for federal deregulation tomorrow but we have gatekeepers in the form of sub-committee chairs and committee chairs who won’t allow this be heard. The way to fix that is for people to get engaged – not to scream and yell and curse at your legislator – but to advocate.”

Education on What’s NEXT

Attendees looking for the latest insights on the industry were met with a large number of workshops, speeches, and panels on different verticals and topics. Short pitch contests were also held, giving cannabis startups the chance to impress a live audience – and gain potential investor or other business relationships. Harvest Direct Enterprises, creators of LACY (Lossless Activation Chamber Y), took first place in their category.

“Winning the MJBizCon Innovation Battlefield was the result of years of work and it meant finally having the cannabis community not only grasp the technology and what it means for our industry and beyond but to welcome us with open arms as well,” explained Harvest Direct Co-Founder, CEO, and Lead Chemist, Zeyead Gharib.

Future Reigns Supreme on Expo Floor

The expansive expo floor featured a wide-range of engaging exhibits, from mock grow-rooms to a pseudo Omni-theater like tent featuring an immersive and endearing look at what’s ahead for cannabis commerce.

“It invigorates those who are in the space already with an acknowledgement of their aspirations,” exclaimed Gary Cohen, President and CEO of Cova Software, who co-sponsored the Future of Retail Experience. Cohen recently announced his candidacy for President of the National Cannabis Industry Association, citing his 30 years of experience in the cellular communications space as one of regulation business development, much like the emerging marijuana market.

“The show was good,” said Nenad Yashruti, CEO of Root Sciences, who had a booth next to the popular Sustainability Experience. “Any attendee had well-rounded access to industry-leading vendors, manufacturers, and distributors within the cannabis space.”

After Hours Crowd Rides High

As always, some of the most exciting events of MJBizConNEXT occurred after hours. Grasslands Agency invited an elite group of cannabis insiders to The Tigermen Den for an evening filled with delicious local food and drink, co-sponsored by Manna Molecular. As always, the DOPE Magazine Golden Ticket after party delivered a night of true Big Easy entertainment. Terpene-infused cocktails courtesy of True Terpenes flowed while a brass band brought the house down. 

DOPE Co-Founder David Tran gave an emotional speech, reminding the hundreds gathered that what they are apart of in this watershed moment for cannabis reform will have a lasting effect for generations.

“You’re the pioneers that we’re all going to remember for many years to come,” Tran told the crowd. “Support each other, do good business, and have integrity. You’re the leaders.”

The Future of Canna-Business

In order to stay on track with the rapidly expanding international cannabis market, MJBizDaily is taking their conference to Canada, which is on pace to be the first developed nation to fully legalize cannabis. The first annual MJBizCon INT’L is set for August 14th-16th in Toronto. Then, it will be all eyes on Sin City as the 7th Annual MJBizCon takes over the Las Vegas Convention Center November 16th-18th.

“30 countries now have some form of legalized cannabis,” Farrington said. “It’s thrilling to be on the cutting-edge of what I can now proudly say is a global market for marijuana.”

The post MJBizConNEXT Wrap-Up: Emerging Innovations, Celebrity Appearances & More appeared first on CannabisFN.

From grams to ounces to halves to eighths, there are a lot of metrics thrown around in the weed industry. And, if you’re new to marijuana, you might find yourself a little baffled by what the heck it all means. While you probably still get by just fine with telling your budtender that you want to buy $X amount of cannabis, it’s most definitely in your best interest to have an understanding of what these metrics are so you can make smarter, more economical purchases.

To take the guesswork out of marijuana weight, we’ve created this handy guide explaining everything you need to know so you can be an informed consumer.

Marijuana Metrics From Low to High

As you go through these metrics, you might notice that the smallest metrics are represented by the metric system (ie grams) while the larger metrics transition into the imperial system (ie ounces). Just know that you’re not reading it wrong; marijuana metrics just so happen to be very confusing in this way.

Gram AKA “dime bag”

During your lifetime you might’ve heard a person or two refer to a “dime bag” when talking about weed. The exact amount that this refers to is half a gram and, generally speaking, half a gram costs around $10, hence the name dime bag.

These days, you won’t find many dispensaries that are willing to sell such low amounts; however, the standardization of weed across the country is driving prices down so you will find places that sell a whole gram (versus half) for just $10. One gram is likely the lowest amount you’ll be able to purchase in a dispensary and it can range from $10-$20 depending on the quality of the cannabis.

An Eighth

The next highest metric for purchase is what’s commonly referred to as “an eighth.” This is where things transition, as mentioned, from the metric system to the imperial system.

An eighth simply means an eighth of an ounce of weed, which is approximately three and a half grams of marijuana. This amount tends to last for one to two weeks for regular smokers but can last much longer for those who occasionally partake. You’ll find that most dispensaries charge anywhere from $20 to $50 for this amount.

A Quarter

A quarter is the next commonly available metric for cannabis and, you might guess by now, that it means a quarter of an ounce. The amount is twice as much as an eighth, coming to approximately seven grams of marijuana.

This amount is ideal for regular smokers who don’t want to make too many trips back and forth to the dispensary. Prices for quarters tend to range from $30 to $60 depending on how quality the cannabis is.

A Half

Next up is a half, which, of course, means half an ounce. This is twice as much as a quarter and amounts to 14 grams of cannabis.

A half should last most regular smokers for a few weeks, so it’s a great option for those who prefer to stay home rather than take trips to the dispensary. Prices vary, again depending on quality, but most dispensaries sell a half for anywhere from $100 to $150.

An Ounce

The highest metric of cannabis available is typically one ounce. Being that it’s twice as much as a half, you might have already guessed that an ounce equals 28 grams of marijuana.

If you have a particular strain that you love and want to stick to, then it makes sense to purchase an ounce to reduce the number of times you have to hit up your dispensary as well as save a little cash. Costs for an ounce of weed range from about $215 to $300 depending on its quality.

A Note About Price and Weight

Speaking of saving a little cash, it’s worth mentioning that the more marijuana you buy, the less it costs you, so it’s a good idea to buy in the biggest bulk that makes sense for your lifestyle and budget in order to save some money.

You’ll also notice that, in addition to costs varying by quality, the cost of cannabis (and how much you can buy) also varies by state. In states where recreational marijuana is legal, overall pot prices tend to be driven much lower than in states where it’s just medically legal. For example, an ounce of high-quality marijuana in California should cost you between $200 and $245 while the same strain and amount might cost you as much as $350 in New York.

Additional Good-to-Know Measurements

The measurements we’ve covered thus far are the basics of what you need to know to be an informed cannabis consumer, but there are some additional measurements that are good to know if you want to be as knowledgeable as can be. And they’re especially useful if you’re more into concentrates than smoking the flower.

There are a number of different chemicals in the cannabis plants, but the one that’s responsible for that happy-making stoned feeling is THC. That said, it’s good to know just how much THC you’re getting per dose and what, exactly, that means so you have better control over your high.

The average amount of THC in cannabis plants for purchase in Colorado is between 15% and 30%, and that number is expected to increase as more potent strains become available. Concentrates, on the other hand, can go up much higher.

If you have an affinity for ingesting cannabis via wax, hash, shatter, or edibles, then you might notice on the packages that the measures switch from displaying percentages to displaying milligrams (confusing, we know). But it essentially means the same as percentages. For instance, if you see that a concentrate has 70 mg of THC per dose, that means it’s comprised of 70% THC. Concentrates also tend to be much stronger and more potent than edibles and flower, but the effects of edibles often last the longest.

Hopefully this clears up the often confusing marijuana metrics for you so that you can make informed, economical purchases for the rest of your marijuana future.

The post The Definitive Guide to Cannabis Weight Charts & Conversions appeared first on CannabisFN.

There has never been a better time to launch a cannabis hemp business, what with the industry seeing expeditious growth over the last few years.

Hemp is usually cultivated in in the northern hemisphere. Closely related to the Cannabis sativa plant species, hemp was originally spun into fiber some 10,000 years ago, according to Hemp, Inc.

A fast-growing plant with an abundance of medical and industrial uses, hemp is rich in essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid (Omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (Omega-3).

The crop is not to be confused with marijuana.

It is non-psychoactive, so don’t expect to get high from hemp! What you can expect from this crop, however, is a sustainable renewable resource that is gaining global demand.

‘Ganjapreneurs’ are acknowledging this fact and jumping on the cannabis hemp business bandwagon, which has the potential to be incredibly lucrative in a flourishing market.

CannabisNow’s great infographic demonstrates these attributes:

Hemp is a Sustainable Renewable Resource

Just one acre of hemp can be used to produce enough fiber to the amount of 2-3 acres of cotton. A single acre of hemp could also produce close to 1,000 gallons of methanol in one growing season. In fact, the crop is commonly used as an alternative clean burning fuel.

Also used to create paper, hemp is strong, soft and long-lasting. What’s more, the sustainable renewable resource is not susceptible to mold and mildew, nor does it necessitate any pesticides or herbicides quite like cotton does.

Perhaps one of the most environmentally friendly and beneficial crops of them all, hemp requires minor amounts of fertilizer to grow in abundance. Even if it is burned as a fuel, hemp will not negatively impact the environment.

How, you ask?

Well, when it is burned as a fuel it emits the same type of carbon dioxide (CO2) that the environment takes in. This makes hemp an appealing choice for environmentally-conscious cannabis hemp business owners.

A Brief Insight into the History of Hemp in America

During the Colonial times through World War II, hemp was an essential crop. The hemp seed was brought to Colonial America by the Puritans. It was widely planted and used as a fiber for the creation of sails, lines and caulking work.

In the year 1841, Congress passed a law that requested the Navy to acquire hemp from domestic farmers. A 1919 article in the Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin no. 22 claims that hemp made its way from Virginia to Kentucky just before the Revolutionary War.

Dependence on hemp soared throughout America during the 19th and Early 20th Centuries. Increased levels of production commenced in states like California, Illinois and Nebraska.

Things soon changed throughout the 20th Century, when the federal government and individual states started to criminalize cannabis in all forms.

Possession or transportation of cannabis was made illegal across the United States under federal law as per the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937. However, the medical and industrial use of hemp was excluded from this law and an excise tax imposed on all hemp sales.

The Modern Hemp Industry in the U.S.

Today’s hemp industry is thriving, thanks to lighter regulations at the state level and increased awareness of the plant’s benefits, many of which are medically-focused.

Hemp and Cannabidiol (CBD) are tolerated a lot more now than they were in the past. Doctors, scientists and the general public are embracing cannabis research and hemp production, with hemp-derived CBD quickly becoming one of the most in-demand products.

A 140 percent increase in the number of acres licensed for hemp cultivation in the top 10 hemp-growing states was noticeable between the years 2016 and 2017. During the same period, the number of hemp producers swelled to double the amount.

Estimates from Cannabis research firm Brightfield Group reveal how the U.S. market for hemp-derived CBD crept up to $291 million in 2017. By 2021, researchers believe it will inflate to $1.65 billion.

If you thought that was impressive, get this: in 2017 there were three times more hemp producers in Oregon, Tennessee, and Vermont than the previous year.

Growth spread throughout other states, too, with Minnesota’s cannabis hemp business producers increasing by 533 percent, while New York experienced 425 percent growth and North Dakota welcomed a 600 percent hike in production levels.

Hemp programs expanded in Colorado and Kentucky throughout 2017 – two of 10 top hemp-producing states. Today, these states account for 64 percent of the total acres registered for cannabis hemp business production.

The average number of acres registered for hemp production in the U.S. in 2017 was 1,787. This is an increase of 377 percent from the 374 acres licensed for hemp cultivation in the previous year, non-inclusive of Colorado and Kentucky.

Uncertainty is Not Threatening U.S. Hemp Industry’s Future

Although uncertainty plagues the cannabis hemp business industry in regards to how things will look in the future, this is not stopping policymakers and entrepreneurs from getting a slice of the U.S. hemp market.

Based on data gathered by hemp-advocacy group Vote Hemp, hemp crops throughout the U.S. have doubled this year.

In a total of 18 states, Vote Hemp discovered that there were 23,346 acres of space being used for hemp cultivation in 2017. Compared to the 9,649 acres of space being used for hemp cultivation back in 2016, this recent figure verifies growth of more than double.

A whopping 1,456 farmers have already been issued with state licenses to grow hemp in the U.S. this year. Furthermore, the number of universities conducting hemp research is on the incline, with the number rising from 30 in 2016 to 32 in 2018.

State licenses to cultivate hemp have been issued to 1,456 farmers so far this year and 34 states include hemp laws on the books. Vote Hemp President Eric Steenstra used this report as a way of driving Congress to make hemp farming legal nationwide.

Hemp Production Could Impact Other Industries

It is important to remember the implications that the cannabis hemp business industry may have on other industries.

Primarily, the pharmaceutical industry is going to take a big hit, and not in a good way. Opioid medications are being replaced with hemp-derived CBD oils, whether the oil is being used as a substitute by an epileptic child, an elderly person with Parkinson’s disease, or a cancer patient with chronic pain.

In 2016 alone, almost 19,000 Americans lost their lives to opioids. As fewer people seek out over-the-counter medications from pharmacists and the like, the pharmaceutical industry may struggle to keep up with hemp businesses. Nevertheless, the negative impact that hemp production may have on the pharmaceutical industry is not really a big issue, considering the number of lives it could possibly save.

The positive impacts of hemp production on other industries far outweighs the negatives. Way before hemp cultivation was prohibited, the plant was widely used in many other industries. Paper, textiles, canvas, rope, clothing, construction, biofuel, plastic composites – these are just a few examples of the things that hemp was (and still can be) used to create.

With the rising number of hemp farms throughout the U.S., it is inevitable that the aforementioned industries will benefit in the long-term. Lower production costs and higher demand for hemp-based products will likely translate to wealth for workers in alternative industries.

The U.S. Hemp Industry is in the Infantile Stages

Complete hemp cultivation is still illegal at the federal level, but this is not stopping ‘cannapreneurs’ from launching their very own cannabis hemp business.

The downside to this fairly fresh industry is that hemp producers cannot grow hemp in states that have not set up a hemp program. Many people are also questioning the legality of hemp-based extracts, such as hemp-derived CBD. Hemp farmers statewide are continuously trying to discover the best cultivation practices. However, the demand for products developed from US-grown hemp remains unclear.

The good news is that even the most traditional farmers out there are getting involved in the cannabis hemp business industry. Since industrial hemp boasts a plethora of uses, is it any wonder why farmers are growing their own hemp as an advanced investing strategy against lower-valued yields, like alfalfa or cotton?

Moreover, certain states have demonstrated enthusiasm to support the burgeoning hemp industry by accepting more cultivators into hemp programs and modifying acreage restrains across the board.

The post Why the Hemp Business Isn’t Slowing Down Anytime Soon appeared first on CannabisFN.

There is no doubt that public support for cannabis legalization has been gaining momentum. According to Gallup, support for legalization has risen from less than 50 percent prior to 2010 to more than 64 percent by early 2018. The rise of Republican support to more than 50 percent in 2017 marked a key turning point since bipartisan bills could gain support.

Hundreds of cannabis reform bills have been filed in Congress over the years, but not a single one has ever been put to a vote – until now.

A House committee approved cannabis law reform legislation last Tuesday for the first time in history without attaching the measure to any larger bill. With broad bipartisan support, the bill signals that Congress could be ready to tackle real cannabis reforms.

The new bill, filed by Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Phil Roe (R-TN) and Tim Walz (D-MN) along with more than 50 cosponsors, would encourage the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to conduct research on cannabis’ medical benefits. Senators Jon Tester (D-MT) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) introduced a companion bill in the Senate on Monday, as well.

What in the Bill?

While, Veterans’ Affairs is already allowed to participate in cannabis research, the new bill would strongly encourage reluctant leadership to research whole plant marijuana and extracts involving at least three different strains of cannabis with significant variants in phenotypic traits and various ratios of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol in chemical composition.

The research would be focused on examining varying methods of cannabis delivery, including topical applications, combustible, and noncombustible inhalation, and ingestion. While smoking cannabis has been the most popular consumption method, new forms of cannabis delivery technologies could provider greater benefits with a lower risk.

The VA would be required to preserve all of the data that it collects from the studies and issue a report to Congress within 180 days that includes a plan to implement the research. The VA would also have to send updates no less than annually for a period of five years.

What it Means

The new bill may not be a comprehensive bill legalizing medical cannabis research nationwide, but it’s a starting point that highlights growing bipartisan support for the movement.

Many cannabis advocates hope that the new research bill will go one step further and compel the VA to begin letting doctors issuing recommendations for military veterans in states where the drug has been legalized. By comparison, the current bill only supports the research of medical cannabis without guaranteeing that it will ever be prescribed.

Cannabis advocates and other industry participants will be keeping a close eye on these developments over the coming months as Congressional support for cannabis legalization appears to be on the rise.

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We are excited to partner with the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) on the 5^th Annual Cannabis Business Summit and Expo. The influential cannabis event returns to celebrate five years of bringing together the best and brightest minds in the industry. Join us and more than 7,500 cannabis professionals on July 25 through 27 for this two-day educational event that everyone in the industry will be buzzing about.

NCIA recently launched their digital brochure for the event that provides a sneak peak of what to expect, including the educational tracks, agenda, exhibitors, world-class speakers, tours and workshops, and future conference opportunities.

Download Your #CannaBizSummit Brochure

When registering for the conference, use the code CFN15 to save 15% on your registration costs!

The Cannabis Business Summit & Expo was the winner of Trade Show Executive’s Fastest 50 Award in 2016, honoring the fastest-growing trade shows held in the U.S., and the winner of The Denver Post’s The Cannabist Golden Pineapple Award in 2016 for Best Business Event.

The annual summit, hosted by the cannabis industry’s only national trade association, returns to the Bay Area, the epicenter of the cannabis movement, to bring together more than 6,000 of the industry’s best and brightest minds.

Serious, like-minded entrepreneurs will convene for three days to learn how to grow their businesses and to achieve new levels of success in five all-encompassing educational tracks:

• The Fine Print: Money, Law, and Your Business
• Policy & Reform
• Cultivation & Processing
• Running Your CannaBusiness
• Leading Edge: Emerging Topics in the Cannabis Industry

Attendees can also explore the 120,000 square feet of expo floor, bringing together exhibitors and top industry professionals leading in all aspects of the cannabis economy. Shop for all of your business-to-business needs at NCIA events, known for having the highest concentration of legitimate buyers and sellers when compared to any other industry event, to make sure you stay successful in a highly competitive market.

Register Now using CFN15 code to save 15% from the base price.

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It’s not like the first edition of the Berlin International Cannabis Business Conference – or ICBC, helmed by the ever affable, professional and esoteric Alex Rogers and a professional team of organizers, lacked polish, cred or drama. Set against the backdrop of the announcement of Germany’s first legal medical cultivation bid last year, the ICBC conference team launched the event smoothly against a backdrop of enough intrigue to attract Shakespeare’s ghost.

This year, occurring just two weeks after the bid hit the skids in court, the ICBC went into another dimension.  Starting with rumors of the bid’s apparent zombie return in the form of appeals by at least some of the top contenders if not “redo” for the same. Not to mention speculation about when there will be a formal announcement about the next public tender. Not if, but when.

In the meantime, everyone else with product got down to business. If you are a producer or broker of GMP certified, EU acceptable product this year and were not there, you missed a valuable chance to fill need a market which is waking up to cannabinoids of all kinds not to mention legitimate sales channels (starting with pharmacies) that are popping up fast.

The first werbungen (commercials) for non-medical CBD (from German firms) are already on the top radio stations auf Deutsch. The German government is offering tax incentives for growing certain kinds of hemp. German firms in the processing and technical end of the conversation, including the ever-faithful Storz and Bickel (see the legendary Volcano and their newest medical product, the Mighty), have quietly led the industry forward from the unsexy end for decades. Now they are front and center of a revolution that is happening from the pharma end, and with a prosumer market already primed.

Who Was There?

This being Germany, where prostitution is legal and every town with a Hauptbahnhof (central train station) has a red light “district”, there was no shortage of cannabis-related sex aids on display and passed around informally as samples – even at the CBD end. But beyond that, the big boys were also there – the Canadian LPs and the German firms that are their partners, even if not obviously or with booth presence. When you ask them directly, they will all say that they have product.

But those betting that they will not have enough for at least the next 18 months, particularly now with another delay in the bid, whatever it is, plus the Canadian rec market setting sail this summer and ongoing Israel export ban, were also there, and in significant numbers. Exporters from warmer and cheaper labor climes, who are watching the certification game avidly, and building to European spec, were booked solid in back-to-back meetings throughout the conference. Interesting firms hailing from Jamaica and even Central and Latin America were present, collecting cards if not potential customers. One such example? Gaia Health – to paraphrase from their brochure “a federally licensed Columbian cannabis company based in a tariff and tax-free zone.” That is the kind of thing that got attention here, for obvious reasons. So did the team from Nysk Holdings, a Macedonian-American effort that’s got game, a second GMP-certified crop, and an export license from the Macedonian government.

There are also other types of investments opening up already. Think cannabis real estate is just limited to other places? Think again. Vertikal-Plantage is already proposing to convert old buildings into greenhouses with their first project already selected. They are targeting an area called the Ruhrgebeit (Germany’s rust belt or the NordRheinWestphalia region) which is already turning into a hotbed for such kinds of entrepreneurialism. Why? What factories have not been shipped to China are looking for new uses. Unemployment is still running high. And this area is also a scientific and university center now being funded by the German government.

There were also many investors at the conference and of both the German and international kind including from the U.S. and Canada. The news that Trump is now thinking about passing a federal law to preserve the legitimacy of the state cannabis business made the rounds but locals were not impressed. Auf Deutsch, the conversations were pretty much along the lines of “the Americans might have California but we have real medical, federal reform.” Not to mention generated another round of Trump bashing, which is turning out to be German’s favorite sport these days, besides grousing about the weather.

One of the most interesting aspects this time was how many banking types from Frankfurt showed up – not to mention budding cannabis companies with accountants and lawyers already attached – for whatever purpose.  Germany may not be at the level of Canada a couple of years ago, Colorado circa 2014, or California now, but give it a couple of years. The speed of market change here is awesome, and Germans are well aware of, if not driving it and on many levels, helped by an international industry that wants to be part of it all. Not to mention a federal change in the law that also mandates public healthcare coverage.

Cannabis consulting is also starting to be a “thing,” here – but it is an entirely different animal than it is in the United States or even Canada.

And while there was much talk about the second impending go-round on the bid, it was clear that attendees were there to do business and network. And there was indeed, much “bidness” to be had.

For that reason, those who missed it should mark their calendars now for next year – and consider catching up with the ICBC team at their next stop in Vancouver. You will be glad you did.

The post Cannabis On The Rhine: The Berlin ICBC Comes Into Its Own In Sophomore Year appeared first on CannabisFN.

Most people are at least vaguely familiar with mutual funds: they know them as conservative investments that allow the common investor to diversify their money within the market simply by buying into the fund instead of purchasing a single security such as Treasury bonds or individual stocks.  One thing that many folks don’t know, however, is that different mutual funds are set up with different objectives and underlying investments.

An Index Fund, for example, is designed to match / track the movement of an underlying index.  For example, an S&P 500 Index Fund would be structured to provide performance that mimics the S&P 500 index as closely as possible.  Because of the structure of mutual funds, it is possible for Fund Managers to buy and sell securities that are held as the underlying value behind the mutual fund – this means that even though a mutual fund is pegged to the S&P, it doesn’t need to include underlying securities listed on the S&P, all it needs to do is accurately track the performance of the index.  This distinction is important when doing research about small volume/ narrow-based index pegged funds.

Though finding index funds pegged to the S&P, Dow Averages or even Wilshire Index are regular in the investment world, finding lesser known index funds can yield significant return if you know where to look.

Prime example of an unrealized opportunity that you’ll kick yourself over would be failing to invest in funds that track the Marijuana Index before the Federal government addresses cannabis legalization.  There is steady upward pressure from a continually growing majority of US citizens for the government to legalize cannabis, and if it happens, it stands to give the cannabis industry and market segment the boost that it has needed since the first uncertainty about the future when Jeff Sessions was made AG.

One example of an index fund that both trades electronically and is pegged to the marijuana index is the Horizons Medical Marijuana Life Sciences ETF (HMMJ).  While most of their holdings are in pot producing companies and medical dispensaries, a few familiar, blue chip names made the cut including Scott’s Miracle Grow (SMG) and GW Pharmaceuticals (GWPH).  While these big name companies provide stability to the portfolio, they also have ancillary ties to the cannabis industry.  GW develops cannabis-based and synthetic cannabinoid medication.  Scott’s Miracle Grow is a trusted name in outdoor gardening.  As the cannabis industry busts and booms, these big chip stocks are sure to move in conjunction.

Advantages of investing in an index fund versus individual stocks are bountiful, especially for the everyday investor.  First, an index fund is going to be automatically diversified by the fund manager.  A single share of a mutual fund will represent a basket of underlying securities that’s put together and by the fund manager.  Another major advantage of an index fund versus single stocks is that they are managed.  The Fund Manager not only selects the stocks and securities to be included in the underlying index fund’s basket, they can adjust or add as needed, too.  This means that your portfolio is being managed by a professional.  A third and very important advantage that index funds have over common stock is that many investment companies will offer breakpoints where the cost of investing goes down at higher dollar figures invested in the same fund family.  That means that if you find a “marijuana index fund” at an investment firm where you have other accounts, you may be entitled to a lower share price simple for having money in other accounts with the same investment firm!

The post Where Are the Marijuana Index Funds? appeared first on CannabisFN.

Driving under the influence of something that impairs reactions is a serious offence. While there are alcohol breathalyzers to detect when a motorist has been knocking back the booze before taking to the open roads, what about drivers who use cannabis prior to getting behind the wheel? Well, it might have taken a while, but THC breathalyzers are officially here.

Don’t get too excited just yet, however. These devices are still being developed and since they are in the infantile stages, there’s a long way to go until law enforcement and the judicial system can accurately measure and enforce cannabis intoxication.

What is a THC Breathalyzer?

A THC breathalyzer is designed to detect the levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in a person’s blood. These unique devices could potentially transform the way in which cannabis intoxication is enforced in the future.

In order to effectively measure blood levels based on a person’s breath, it is essential to understand what the vapor pressure is. The way in which a compound reacts when transitioning from a liquid to a gas is known as its vapor pressure. This is precisely what happens inside the lungs when a molecule leaves the blood to be exhaled in a person’s breath.

Unlike traditional breathalyzers that detect the blood alcohol content (BAC), a cannabis breathalyzer detects the psychoactive THC compound. These incredibly useful tools can function with an impressive time range. Some THC breathalyzers will reveal THC ingestion within half an hour, whereas others may take up to two hours to show a precise vapor reading.

Who Needs THC Breathalyzers?

The police department can benefit from THC breathalyzers, since these tools can help them to punish people who commit cannabis DUIs. Governments and law enforcement can also benefit from impairment-testing mechanisms, with the governor of Vermont being one of the first to express his desire for the invention of a reliable THC breathalyzer.

How Do THC Breathalyzers Work?

A specific type of chemistry is used to determine how much THC is contained in a person’s body when the molecule is exhaled in their breath. Think about it like this – if you are able to figure out the amount of pressure produced by ethanol vapor, you can successfully calculate the amount of ethanol that remains in a bottle based on the properties of the gases.

This logic is exactly the same for the THC that leaves the human body. THC-testing devices work by measuring the vapor pressure of the cannabis compound. Since THC is such a complex molecule, scientists have faced many hurdles in developing cannabis breathalyzers.

Are there any common problems associated with THC breath testing technologies?

The main issue with THC breathalyzers is that the majority of devices in development simply measure the amount of THC, rather than a person’s behavior when under the influence. It is tricky to understand whether or not a person is incapable of operating a motor vehicle in this way.

Scientists are still uncertain on what amount of THC is too much to drive. However, certain states (such as Colorado) deem five nanograms of THC to be too much. The Associate Professor of Laboratory Medicine at the University of California San Francisco, Kara Lynch, says there will be ongoing studies to analogize impaired breath levels and confirm a standard.

What is the typical timeline for product development?

Research and development into THC breathalyzers has been taking place for years, but thankfully, we’re getting somewhere. Recently, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published the results of a study on the fundamental physical properties of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in Forensic Chemistry.

Their results showed how the vapor pressure of THC was successfully measured – a breakthrough for scientists, who have struggled to accomplish this task in the past due to THC’s complexity and size. The timeline for THC breathalyzer development will now be a lot shorter than it has been in the past.

Why is Cannabix Technologies a leading name in THC breathalyzer development?

Based in Vancouver, B.C., Cannabix Technologies Inc. is a technology company responsible for developing the Cannabix Marijuana Breathalyzer. Similar to the roadside devices used to detect alcohol on the breath of drunk drivers, the Cannabix Marijuana Breathalyzer exposes THC in breath.

Cannabix is capitalizing on a time when cannabis is becoming legal in many places around the world, by developing quality breath testing technologies that detect the cannabis plant’s psychoactive component – Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The recent use of cannabis can be identified using Cannabix’s tool, which identifies the level of THC molecules.

Portable and hard wearing, the THC-detecting devices would produce results within a two-hour time period. When you compare this to the lengthy process of sending urine or saliva samples to a laboratory for testing, the Cannabix Marijuana Breathalyzer is a much more convenient alternative, not to mention less invasive.

The post What’s Holding Up THC Breathalyzers? appeared first on CannabisFN.

President Trump’s unexpected support for state-level cannabis legalization has spurred Democrats to rally behind new legislation for federal legalization over the past weeks.

Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Marijuana Justice Act last year to remove cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, incentivize states to mitigate racial disparities in marijuana arrests, and expunge federal convictions specific to marijuana possession. Last week, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), who rose to fame during the last presidential election as a Democratic contender to Hillary Clinton, signed on as a co-sponsor of the legislation.

“Here is the simple truth: Blacks and whites have similar rates of marijuana use, but black people are far more likely to be arrested for it. Last year, about 600,000 people were arrested for possession of marijuana. Many of those people, disproportionately people of color, have seen their lives destroyed because they have criminal records as a result of marijuana use. That has got to change,” Sen. Sanders said in a statement. “As I talked about during my campaign, we must end the absurd situation of marijuana being listed as a Schedule 1 drug alongside heroin. It is time to decriminalize marijuana, as many states have already done, and end the failed war on drugs. We must invest in jobs and education, not more jails and incarceration.”

At the same time, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) announced plans to introduce legislation on April 20 (4/20) to decriminalize marijuana on a federal level. Sen. Schumer is the latest high-profile politician to weigh in on the debate and his bill would reportedly remove marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act, establish funding for women- and minority-owned marijuana businesses, require more public health research, and maintain federal authority to regulate commercial advertising – much like the tobacco industry.

“The time has come to decriminalize marijuana,” said Leader Schumer in a statement. “My thinking – as well as the general population’s views – on the issue has evolved, and so I believe there’s no better time than the present to get this done. It’s simply the right thing to do. This legislation would let the states be the laboratories that they should be, ensure that woman and minority owned business have a fair shot in the marijuana industry, invests in critical research on THC, and ensures that advertisers can’t target children – it’s a balanced approach. ”

These developments have had a positive impact on many cannabis companies. The Marijuana Index, which tracks 42 publicly-traded companies in the cannabis space, rose more than 22 percent, from about $220 in early April to nearly $270, following President Trump’s revelations and the growing support amid Democrats. The removal of cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act could significantly de-risk the sector and open it up for wider investment.

The post Senators Rally Behind (U.S.) Cannabis Legalization appeared first on CannabisFN.

As both recreational and medicinal marijuana become increasingly legal across the United States, the way people ingest cannabis is becoming increasingly creative.

No longer are cannabis enthusiasts confined to consuming the flower alone. These days, there’s wax, shatter, sugar, budder, and an ever-growing range of other cannabis concentrates that can be consumed in lieu of smoking the plant.

Making these concentrates is an art all its own as there are quite a few different ways THC can be extracted from the plant to produce them. If you’re curious about making your own, then spend some time getting to know the pros and cons of three of the most popular methods of extraction.

Butane Extraction

Butane is a common method of extraction but it can also be a very dangerous one. Whether you’re extracting at home with basic equipment or you’re doing it in large scales, the process is essentially the same.

Basically, you fill a metal or plastic tube with the cannabis plant—the higher the quality, the better. Then, you put a mesh screen or other breathable filter on one side of the tube and subsequently spray the butane into it. The result is a cannabis-butane solution dripping into whatever container you put on the end of the tube to collect it.

But in order for this new solution to be safe, you have to get rid of the butane in it. You do this by heating up the solution in hot water. As this happens, you’ll notice your solution start to bubble—that’s the butane making its escape. Because the water will cool relatively quickly, it’s critical that you change it often to ensure all of the butane is removed.

CO2 Extraction

CO2 extraction occurs through a process called supercritical fluid extraction. Other gases aside from CO2 can be used during this process but CO2 is far and away the most common.

You’ll find that most sticklers for purity and potency gravitate toward this method over the others because it compresses at a lower temperature—approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is far below the deactivation temperature for both cannabinoids and terpenes, which results in a more flavorful solution and reportedly clearer high.

To use this method, you put the marijuana plant in some form of an extraction vessel them push liquid CO2 through it. In a nutshell, the process works by using temperature and pressure to draw out the cannabinoids and terpenes into separate chambers attached to the vessel.

Different temperatures and pressures can be used in this method depending on the desired flavors and different kinds of highs you want from it.

Ethanol Extraction

Ethanol extraction is a simple, centuries-old process that, in the early days, was basically just a matter of soaking the plant material in an ethanol solution heated by hot water for varying amounts of time depending on the desired result.

But despite the safety and simplicity of this method relative to the others, many cannabis producers have opted not to use it due to one glaring issue.

The primary reason people have been turning to butane and CO2 instead is because ethanol molecules’ polar and nonpolar ends mean that, in addition to drawing cannabinoids and terpenes out of plants, it can also bring unwanted chemicals, like chlorophyll and plant wax, out too. The result is a highly murky substance.

But new technology has made this much less of a problem. For instance, popular ethanol extraction system, Ethos 4, can extract 98.5% of THC while leaving most of the unwanted stuff behind. And there are now a number of alternative systems just like it. With these technological advances, ethanol extraction has been gaining a lot of popularity as a preferred method.

What Extraction Method is Right For You?

The best extraction method for you depends on a number of factors including your budget, the type of concentrate you’re aiming to make, and safety concerns you might have.

For instance, if you’re primarily looking to make some form of hash or shatter, then you’ll want to consider using butane extraction for the golden amber-colored hard substance it creates. On the other hand, if vapor is what you’re after, then CO2 extraction is your best bet as it produces a relatively pure and clear oil that lends itself well to vaping.

Moreover, if you’re producing concentrates in variable environments then you should consider the fact that butane extraction is highly flammable, and should really only be done using explosion-proof equipment in a secure building. Meanwhile, CO2 and ethanol extraction methods don’t have that problem.

All of that being said, the method you use is really a matter of your particular concentrate needs and the conditions you’re working with. As of right now, butane and CO2 are the most popular methods among producers but, as mentioned, new technology has made ethanol extraction an increasingly popular choice as well.

The post How to Extract THC appeared first on CannabisFN.

In breaking news out of Germany, the Higher Regional Court (OLG) in Dusseldorf handed down a stunning but increasingly rumored decision on March 28 on the pending domestic cannabis cultivation bid. The impact of this decision will certainly affect the date on which the country begins producing domestically sourced medical cannabis. It also creates an environment where the savvy investor should look for firms with a foothold in this space as a way to enter this valuable and growing medical cannabis market now struggling to meet patient demand – and for now, without a date on which locally cultivated crops will enter the distribution stream.

Perspective

By way of recap, the German government changed the law last year to mandate that medical cannabis was compensated under public health insurance (which covers 90% of Germans). In April, the government also announced, via BfArM, the agency responsible for regulating all narcotic drugs, that it was issuing a tender bid for the production of about 6.6 tonnes of medical cannabis. Target date for first crop delivery? Sometime in 2019.

The process ran into problems early. By September, lawsuits had been launched. BfArm extended the deadline to respond to the bid. Despite announcements, via press release, of the top ten firms, the rumours continued to persist that the bid would not survive a legal challenge.

Those complaints – four of them – and which claimed everything from cartel-like business practices around bid selection to allowing more time to respond – were also allowed to proceed as Klages (oral hearings auf Deutsch) in court, but three of them were just largely dismissed in Dusseldorf by the OLG.

However to add even more confusion, the OLG’s decision also effectively shuts down the right of BfArM to proceed with the current bid because the agency did not give the complaining firms enough time to respond during the late-summer extension. This is, in other words, a technical fault by a federal German agency in the tendering of an EU bid. The extension was too short. As a result, BfArM may not proceed with the bid or award the ten licenses.

Bottom line? There is going to be some formal if complicated paper throwing and rule citing behind the scenes between bureaucrats and bidders if not BfArM and the rest of the government. Given the opinion of the court that BfArM was at fault, there is the potential of even more lawsuits. For those on the inside track willing to comment off the record, this could go in one of several directions.

For now, as news of the decision makes the rounds during Easter weekend, the ten finalists received the official letters from BfArM announcing that the bid was formally off.

What this ultimately means, however, is that there are currently 15,000 patients with reimbursed claims here and that number is only expected to grow – including even according to government estimates. They have to get the cannabis from somewhere. And that is where this all gets very interesting.

What Does This Mean For Foreign Looking Cannabis Investors?

This decision effectively does several things. Most importantly, however, it basically guarantees that delivery of domestic product will not commence by 2019 unless there is significant hustle on the part of everyone subsequently – but even the government does not believe this will be the case. As a result, investors interested in this market as a legitimate, federally sanctioned and medically insured region, should take note.

Here is where you should be looking for interesting plays:

1. The German government is now under the gun to produce medical cannabis domestically. That will not go away. The German hemp farmers left out of the bid process now are also, at this point, in international cooperation or even merged buy-outs with Canadians who can easily meet the requirements of an international team. As a result, look for German firms in this position and begin conversations. The German investment market is less liquid and investors more conservative on this issue than in either the U.S. or Canada right now. That means legitimate oversees cash injections are welcomed. Be aware, however, that the laws are different, and this is a very different investment climate. There is a large legal grow space here planned for a former atomic bunker at a still-secret location somewhere in Bavaria. This ain’t California. Or even Canada. Get a lawyer, and start with a government official who is directly tasked with answering this kind of question – such as those at the German Trade and Investment ministry (GTAI). Nobody else knows what they are talking about.
2. Canadian companies already in the game via distribution agreements – and those partnered with them in Europe and Australia are still great investments because they stand to benefit the most in the shorter and longer term from this bureaucratic squabble. The creative production and distribution agreements that have sprung up across the continent are legion at this point and tell an interesting story. Tilray sits in Portugal. Aurora followed Spektrum into Denmark last year is also now in operations in Italy as of January, along with Canadian-German Aphria-Nuuvera.  Spektrum itself is about to launch a new source of product (greenhouse-grown but medical grade cannabis sourced from Spain) bound for the German market. These companies are all, conveniently, listed on public exchanges in multiple countries. The easiest international investment in the legal pot biz is this route and will be for some time.
3. Greece. This is a hotbed of potential domestic production and even a source for medical cannabis bound for the German market. Look for firms in this space already. However, because the Greek market is so new, be especially careful about export rights. Demand to see paper and certifications in every direction.
4. Eastern Europe. With the Israelis now blocked from export in a deal apparently cut over the relocation of the capital to Jerusalem between Presidents Trump and Netanyahu, look for interesting Israeli-backed hybrids to start to come out of Slovenia in particular, but throughout the former “Eastern bloc” countries. The one exception to this is Poland. For the moment, the country is following its German cousin, so imports are the only way cannabis will come into the country, and export, obviously, is out of the running for now.
5. Non-EU countries. As will be evident at the upcoming ICBC conference in Berlin, there are other alternatives now springing up with GMP cert, even if they are not in the EU but close to it. Look for innovative companies with the proper licensing and export agreements to come from the eastern regions of the EU if not just outside its borders. They exist and are about to play an interesting roll in a country where legal, medically-certified cannabis is just about as valuable as gold right now and will be, thanks to this recent decision, for some time to come.

The post Why The German Market Is Now Destination Number 1 For GMP Certified Medical Cannabis appeared first on CannabisFN.

The cannabis industry is fraught with acronyms – such as THC to CBD – and technical vocabulary – such as phytocannabinoids. While these terms may be difficult to understand, it’s important for consumers and physicians to know about them to make the best decisions.

CBD vs. CBDA

Cannabidiolic acid, abbreviated CBDa, is one of the primary cannabinoids produced on the stems, leaves and flowers of some varieties of cannabis plants. In most cannabis varieties, THCa is the dominate cannabinoid. Only certain strains, like Cannatonic, AC/DC, Sour Tsunami and Harlequin, are high in CBDa. Hemp can also be a viable source of CBDa.

It is not until CBDa goes through the process of decarboxylation that the “a”, which stands for acid, disappears and the new compound can be called CBD, or activated CBD.

Decarboxylation is the process by which carbon dioxide and hydrogen are removed from CBDa, transforming it into CBD. This reaction can occur naturally as the plant ages from exposure to light and heat, but is more often accelerated by heating cannabis when processing or smoking high CBD cannabis varieties. Due to their similar chemical structure, CBDa and CBD have similar therapeutic effects, but there are some differences between the two molecules. The biggest difference between the two is the amount of research conducted on each cannabinoid.

Roles in the Body

Both compounds are similar in that they activate the endocannabinoid system, but far less is known about CBDa’s roll than CBD.

The endocannabinoid system is a group of cells in the body that promote balance or homeostasis. Although CBD and other cannabinoids were discovered in 1963 by Israeli researcher Dr. Ralph Mechoulam, it wasn’t until the 1990’s that scientists learned how cannabinoids worked in the body. When functioning properly the endocannabinoid system helps regulate digestion, mood, sleep, immune function, memory, pain, fertility and other key bodily functions. Both CBDa and CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system when treating many conditions, such as, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Diabetes, MS, Epilepsy, and inflammatory conditions like Hepatitis C.

Despite being largely ignored up until recently, some studies have shown CBDa to have some anti-tumoral effects similar to its chemical cousin CBD.

In a study published in the Journal of Natural Medicines in 2012, Shuso Takeda of Hokuriku University in Japan found CBDa inhibited the growth of an aggressive form of breast cancer cells by suppressing a proto-oncogene called c-fos. The study found CBDa inhibited the growth of MDA-MB-231, a particular aggressive form of breast cancer. Scientists say more research is needed to discover the exact mechanisms responsible for the promising result. Unlike CBDa where there is little research into its ability to fight cancer, numerous studies have demonstrated CBD to be a powerful anti-cancer agent.

A promising avenue into CBD’s roll in fighting cancer looks at how CBD promotes apoptosis. Apoptosis is essentially the process of a cell self destructing. When apoptosis does not occur, cells divide out of control resulting in cancer. Several studies have shown CBD promotes apoptosis through a variety of pathways in the body. An Italian study found that a group of molecules called reactive oxygen species slowed the growth of cancer by limiting the amount of oxygen absorbed by the out of control cells. An Israeli study showed that CBD induced apoptosis by reducing inflammation in malignant brain tumors. There is also a wealth of research into CBD’s efficacy in treating many other conditions.

Another difference between CBDa and CBD is how they are consumed. Because CBDa is only found on raw cannabis flowers and leaves, CBDa is often ingested through juicing high CBD cannabis. Juicing raw cannabis is a popular method of ingesting medical cannabis. Patients often mix fruit with the cannabis to reduce bitterness, and because cannabis is a great source for phytonutrients and fiber, cannabis juice can go with almost any diet. Raw high CBD cannabis can be used in salads or other uncooked meals to deliver CBDa to a patient’s endocannabinoid system. Live resins, tinctures and nonactivated full plant extracts are other viable sources of CBDa. CBD is only available after decarboxylation occurs, so cannabis must be heated or burned to access the healing properties of CBD. Activated tinctures, lotions and nonactivated cannabis flower and extracts are popular CBD consumption methods.

 

The post CBD vs. CBDA: What’s the Difference? appeared first on CannabisFN.

President Trump has been notoriously unpredictable when making policy decisions – in fact unpredictability might be his primarily policy doctrine. The appointment of Jeff Sessions as Attorney General and the rescinding of the Cole Memo were widely viewed as anti-legalization moves by the Trump administration, despite widespread approval for legalization among voters in the nine states that have legalized marijuana thus far.

But, in an unexpected turn of events, comments made last week to Sen. Cory Gardner (R-Co.) suggest that the president supports a law to allow state legalization experiments to continue.

“President Trump has consistently supported states’ rights to decide for themselves how to best approach marijuana,” said Sen. Gardner in a press release last week. “Late Wednesday, I received a commitment from the President that the Department of Justice’s rescission of the Cole memo will not impact Colorado’s legal marijuana industry. Furthermore, President Trump has assured me that he will support a federalism-based legislative solution to fix this states’ rights issue once and for all.”

Sen. Gardner had previously threatened to block any Department of Justice nominations until he received such reassurances from the Trump administration about marijuana. With the new assurances from the president, Sen. Gardner announced that he would lift its remaining holds on Department of Justice nominees and work diligently on a bipartisan legislative solution that can pass Congress and head to the President’s desk to deliver on his position.

According to the Washington Post, White House officials confirmed that Sen. Gardner’s statements were accurate, but the Justice Department has declined to comment. The lack of support from the Justice Department has sparked some concern that the president may be unable or unwilling to deliver on his promise. These sentiments have left many analysts cautiously optimistic, but still unsure about the industry’s future.

Commitments mean little from President Trump.

The only way to truly protect states that have legalized marijuana is for Congress to act.
https://t.co/rslGaHqEFC

— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) April 13, 2018

That said, it’s possible that President Trump has reversed his decisions amid widespread and growing support for cannabis legalization. According to Gallup, more than 64 percent of Americans support marijuana legalization, which is up from just 12 percent around 1970.

The cannabis industry will be keeping a close eye on this legislative agenda over the coming months, as any move by Congress could provide meaningful legal support for companies operating in the space and potentially access to the banking sector.

Cannabis stocks rose more than 10 percent on Friday following the news, reversing recent declines, and could mark the beginning of a renewed uptrend.

The post Trump Reverses Policy on Cannabis Legalization appeared first on CannabisFN.

NOTE: Nothing in this article should be taken as medical advice. Always consult a doctor before starting or stopping a certain treatment.

Could it work? Could a high-THC oil actually cure cancer? That’s a claim made by a man based in Nova Scotia, Canada named Rick Simpson. Simpson, with a ninth grade education but also a sufferer of skin cancer, began creating cannabis oil from the dried herb after developing his cancer and remembering hearing about anti-tumor properties of cannabis years before. His claim was pretty extreme: cannabis oil can cure cancer. According to Simpson, oil extracted from high-indica dried cannabis works best to beat some of the odds on all kinds of cancer. And you have to extract the cannabis in an outdoor, non-consumer friendly way using alcohol for it to work.

Evidence has shown that THC, at least in cell culture models, can fight cancer cells, but it’s also worth noting that, at least in Petri dishes, so has curcumin and a lot of other herbs and spices that haven’t actually worked to kill cancer in non-lab, human flesh, people use. Still, some people who suffer from other types of conditions claims it helps immensely, though that may be the known anti-pain effects. According to Skepdic.com, many trials cited had to do with symptoms and side effects and not so much eradication of cancer and some of the studies put forth by Simpson are not even about cancer.

Just who is Rick Simpson, and why do we call the dark, gooey high-THC syringe oil in his name?

Who is Rick Simpson?

Rick Simpson is a man from the province of Nova Scotia in Canada that popularized what is commonly known as “Rick Simpson Oil” or RSO. The man claims that when extracted and taken a certain way, high potency marijuana has the capacity to heal individuals from a wide range of types of cancer.

What is Rick Simpson Oil?

According to Leafly, you do not want to dab Rick Simpson Oil, especially because the high-proof solvent of alcohol and it could be harmful to a person’s health. There’s a specific way that you should be taking the RSO, and Leafly indicates people start with three doses each day the size of half a grain of rice for week one, eventually growing up to one full gram of Rick Simpson Oil per day, which is about 8 to 9 rice-sized drops of RSO every 8 hours, until you’re consumed the complete 90 grams. This should happen in 60 days or more.

What is Run From the Cure?

Run From the Cure is a documentary from 2008 that made Rick Simpson and his oil that he claims can cure cancer go viral all across the internet. The movie takes a look at the at the life of Rick Simpson and how the supposed cancer-healing ability of the oil prompted a local Royal Canadian Legion in the country to advocate for its benefits through their events.

It’s Even Spawned a Radio Show…

A Canadian comedian who was once known as an impressionist on political show Royal Canadian Air Farce on Canada’s national TV broadcaster CBC claims it helped his body kick his “irreversible, aggressive, advanced terminal cancer” that had been developing in his body. Alan Park says he had a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) value of over 700, an astronomical number that later went down to two, below the normal male high of 4. Park then created the podcast show Green Crush with Alan Park, dedicated to advocating for medical cannabis and cannabis legalization while interviewing guests.

Okay, but does it really cure cancer?

We’re not doctors, so definitely consult a doctor if you or a loved one are in the unfortunate situation of battling cancer.

This question has been debated in online circles for some time now between non-scientists and, well, scientists. Rick Simpson’s website, the Run From The Cure documentary and anecdotal stories online and on video of patient’s various types of cancer miraculously healing after consuming cannabis oil, definitely add intrigue and appear to add force to the phenomenon. But there are some medical circles dispute Simpson’s claim that THC actually kills cancer in humans, saying no robust studies have shown that ingesting cannabis oil can actually cure cancer the way it claims to have been doing by Simpson. In addition, there have been people who took cannabis oil after getting a cancer diagnosis and not surviving thereafter. It’s not going to help every single person with cancer.

In addition, there is also the rarely understood medical condition of spontaneous remission where individuals that may have one of several different types of cancers have had their illness, even serious in some cases, reverse spontaneously.

What about CBD oil?

CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive chemical in cannabis that is second in concentration only to the psychoactive property that has also shown to have anti-tumor effects, at least in studies that look at cells in labs and not actual human beings. Rick Simpson claims that CBD is not what you want in the oil that he makes,  but instead swears by the high-THC indica strains of dried cannabis.

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With 29 States and Washington D.C. sporting medical cannabis programs, it’s a safe assumption to say that cannabis as medicine is effectively accepted by the majority of the U.S., by State. Medical cannabis is an extremely broad-scoped science, but two compounds are referenced the most: THC and CBD. While THC is the active compound in cannabis that causes euphoria and the feeling of being “high”, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound also found in cannabis that has impressive medical properties.

CBD is used for pain relief, as an anti-inflammatory, an anticonvulsant, and as an antioxidant, among other things.

CBD typically comes in the forms such as:

• CBD Oil (for ingestion)
• CBD concentrates (for vaporization)
• CBD edibles (for ingestion)

But, it also can be found infused into topical ointments for skin conditions and muscle aches, as well as in a variety of products ranging from soda to rolling papers.  Given the breadth of ways to deliver for CBD to the system, dosing information is critical for ideal CBD intake as well as maximizing utilization of the medication supply, IE: reducing waste.

What’s the Right Dose?

How much CBD should you take? This question gets asked over and over, yet the answer is always the same – it is different for each person. There are several factors that need to be accounted for before thinking about how much CBD should take and how often.

Some of these factors include:

• Weight
• Tolerance
• Metabolism
• Condition
• Severity
• Diet

Also, it is important to note that some hemp-derived CBD products are considered dietary supplements, and are readily distributed online and in medical legal states – dosing charts are always based on the use of high quality CBD oil, extracted from cannabis plants that are bred for the genetic quality of being high in CBD.

			Weight
	≥25 pounds	26-45 pounds	46-85 pounds	86-150 pounds	151-240 pounds	>241 pounds
Pain
Mild	4.5 mg	6 mg	9 mg	12 mg	18 mg	22.5 mg
Medium	6 mg	9 mg	15 mg	15 mg	22.5 mg	30 mg
Severe	9 mg	12 mg	18 mg	18 mg	27 mg	45 mg

This chart provides dosing instruction in milligrams, based on the weight of the patient.  As mentioned, weight is only one of several important considerations when determining dose.  Your actual dose should account for your condition, severity, and metabolism most of all beyond your weight. CBD actually has different effects at higher doses, (biphasic) so if you’re not achieving the desired result at first, know that starting small and then increasing your dose steadily, as needed, until you reach your desired effect is usually encouraged.  In some cases of severe illness, shock therapy using extremely high doses of CBD and /or THC may be appropriate, so always follow the prescription of a doctor for your best results.

Calculating Drops: CBD

Different CBD products will have different strengths and potencies: luckily, figuring out how many drops yield how much CBD isn’t rocket science.

First, find the serving size for your CBD oil.  This means finding how many drops contains how much CBD.  Typically, product packaging will have this information.

Next, find the milligrams of CBD that the serving size contains.

Once you have that information, find your recommended dose according to weight.  Make any necessary adjustments upward based on medical advice or associated considerations of dosing.
Lastly, do the math.

For example, if 10 drops of oil contains 100 mg of CBD, that means each drop contains 10 mg.  For a 250 lb. individual with mild pain, the recommended dose is 30 mg.

A 250 lb. individual with mild pain would take three drops to achieve the correct dose.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified physician before consuming CBD products.

The post CBD Dosing Chart: How Much Should You Take appeared first on CannabisFN.

It’s spring and the flowers are blooming. You know what’s also blooming? Cannabis. It’s being cultivated in various countries across the globe, with more expected to legalize plant production in the coming months/years.

Although the sun is shining and the landscape is transforming into a colorful version of Mother Nature, people are still suffering with depression. By the time winter comes, even more people will be feeling as gloomy as the weather. This is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.

The good news is that cannabis can help. It’s natural, safe to consume and it grows in abundance.

Why use cannabis as a treatment for SAD?

Caused by reduced light exposure, SAD is a seasonal mood disorder that primarily impacts individuals who reside in low-light places. Approximately 4-6 percent of Americans suffer from SAD, based on statistics gathered by the American Association of Family Physician (AAFP). Furthermore, approximately 10-20 percent of Americans will experience SAD in mild form.

Diagnosed by feelings of hopelessness, weight/appetite changes and lack of motivation, SAD affects serotonin levels in the brain. Since serotonin controls our moods, it is crucial that we produce enough of it. Cannabis has the potential to encourage serotonin production, making it the perfect type of medication.

So, why would cannabis be put on Planet Earth in the first place, you ask? Well, there are plenty of reasons to use pot. A healing herb that can be smoked, vaped, extracted for topical/oral use, or baked into edibles, cannabis is fast-becoming one of the most-used weeds in the world. Since cannabis is all-natural, you need not worry about becoming reliant on dangerous opioid medications when you use medical cannabis for SAD.

How does cannabis work to treat changes in mood?

It is possible to completely banish feelings of sadness when you start using cannabis. Of course, you will need to select the right strain and correct method of consumption that suits you.

This is where a budtender will come in handy. These seasoned professionals know everything there is to know about marijuana, from the way it is grown to the way it is extracted into potent and powerful oils, such as Cannabidiol (CBD) oil.

Here’s how cannabis can help with SAD, among many other medical conditions:

• Cannabis increases serotonin levels in the brain

• High-THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) strains can lift the mood

• Sativa strains can produce a clear-headed high

• Cannabis can be used as a replacement to depression-causing coping methods, like alcohol and drugs

• Using cannabis can help to develop social relationships, e.g. attending cannabis clubs

• Marijuana consumption relaxes the mind and body

• Cannabinoids (like THC) behave similarly to endorphins (mood-enhancing chemicals)

Which strains of cannabis can treat SAD?

Among the many cannabis strains currently available at a medical cannabis dispensary (and more are being cross-bred and invented all of the time,) the following are recommended to treat SAD:

• Chocolope (Sativa) – An uplifting strain that can trigger creativity, Chocolope won’t leave you feeling lethargic.

• ACDC (Hybrid) – Want to feel more focused, yet relaxed at the same time? If so, choose this high-CBD, low-THC cannabis strain. A natural stress-reliever, ACDC will not give you a bad case of the munchies.

• Super Silver Haze (Sativa) – Expect feelings of euphoria when you try this cannabis strain for SAD. It is commonly used to treat depression and it has a deliciously citrus flavor.

• Afgoo (Indica) – This strain has a hash-like taste. It will help you to sleep well and may relieve depressive thoughts.

• Cinex (Sativa) – Indulge in some cannabis therapy with a batch of Cinex-laced edibles or a pungent joint of these Sativa buds. You’ll be surprised at the surge of creativity you’ll get when you try this one.

• Chernobyl (Hybrid) – Taste strong flavor notes like orange, lemon and flowers when you consume Chernobyl. Not only can it improve the symptoms of SAD but also, it can stop feelings of tiredness and can help with appetite loss.

How can I obtain cannabis to treat SAD?

Remember to procure your green nuggets of goodness from a trusted local dispensary. Medical cannabis dispensaries must be licensed in order to operate legally. Perform a quick background check on the store you choose prior to visiting.

Don’t be shy to ask the budtender questions about where the cannabis was cultivated. This will help you to avoid dispensaries that sell buds grown in environments where they are exposed to harmful contaminants, such as toxins, chemicals and pesticides.

In addition to setting aside time to finding the right medical cannabis dispensary, you should also seek out a doctor who can recommend medical cannabis. A doctor’s recommendation will be required by all medical marijuana patients. Expect the budtender to ask for a form of identification and a written recommendation/prescription/MMJ card when you are paying for your pot.

Sign up for our newsletter if you want to learn more about medical cannabis uses, the best strains and cannabis-related news.

The post Fighting Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) with Cannabis appeared first on CannabisFN.

With recreational and medicinal marijuana becoming increasingly legal across the United States, it’s certainly an exciting time for both cannabis investors and enthusiasts. But before making any moves in this industry, it’s important to be aware of the associated risks, many of which come from the Trump administration’s stance on marijuana reform.

Trump’s Early Stance on Marijuana

It’s no secret that President Trump’s opinions are wavering and volatile on most matters, and cannabis is no exception. During his campaign for presidency, Trump stated clearly that he was “in favor of medical marijuana 100 percent” and that marijuana policy, in general, should be left up to the states without federal interference.

In February of 2017, one month after Trump became president, former White House spokesperson, Sean Spicer, told reporters that medical use marijuana wasn’t a concern for the administration. Spicer said, “the president understands the pain and suffering that many people go through who are facing especially terminal diseases and the comfort that some of these drugs, including medical marijuana, can bring to them.” However, according to Spicer, recreational marijuana is “a very, very different subject” and “greater enforcement” of federal cannabis laws could be on the horizon.

The fact that Trump seemingly broke his campaign promise to keep federal hands out of state marijuana policies is likely largely influenced by his appointment of Jeff Sessions to attorney general.

Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ Vehement Marijuana Opposition

Attorney General Jeff Sessions is notorious for having an ignorant view on marijuana, going so far as to say, “good people don’t smoke marijuana.” And when referring to racist hate group, the Ku Klux Klan, Sessions has said, “I thought those guys were okay until I learned they smoked pot.”

Since becoming the head of the Department of Justice, Sessions is living up to his reputation. Earlier this year, he led the charge in rescinding the Cole memo, a directive that was put in place by the Obama Administration advising federal prosecutors not to pursue cases against marijuana businesses that were operating in legal cannabis states.

That being said, like many of Trump’s appointments, Sessions role as attorney general could be in jeopardy. After Sessions recused himself from the investigation into Trump’s potential collusion with Russia, Trump said, “So Jeff Sessions takes the job, gets into the job, recuses himself… How do you take a job and then recuse yourself? If he would have recused himself before the job, I would have said, ‘Thanks, Jeff, But I can’t, you know. I’m not going to take you.’ It’s extremely unfair, and that’s a mild word, to the president.”

Since then, tensions between Sessions and Trump are well documented, including many insulting tweets from the president directed at the attorney general as well as reported threats by Sessions to resign numerous times.

Trump Administration’s Lack of Evidence-Based Marijuana Policy

Even if Sessions is to be removed from his role as attorney general, advocates of marijuana reform should be wary of the lack of evidence-based marijuana policymaking in the Trump Administration. Despite Trump being vocal about wanting to tackle the current opioid addiction crisis in the country, he and his administration seem to have little understanding of how to do so.

Increasing research suggests that marijuana is a healthier and less addictive alternative to pain management than opioids, and there are lower rates of fatal opioid overdose in states where medical marijuana is legal. However, the Trump administration seems to have an opposing view to clinical research, with Sean Spicer once linking marijuana legalization to the opioid crisis—a statement that is entirely unfounded and, in fact, the inverse of what current research suggests.

Recent Good News About Marijuana Reform

Even though Trump and his appointees haven’t done much, if anything, to move marijuana reform forward, there’s still plenty of hope for both marijuana investors and enthusiasts.

First, there’s the fact that Americans as a whole are increasingly in support of marijuana legalization. According to Pew Research, 61% of Americans believe cannabis should be legalized, a number that’s been on a steady increase over the past decade and up from 31% in 2000. That number is certainly large enough for members of Congress to pay attention if they’re hoping for reelection.

Even better, on March 23rd of this year, Trump signed a $1.3 trillion spending measure that renews protections for medical marijuana providers and patients. The passage of this bill means that the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer provision is still in effect. Rohrabacher-Blumenauer prohibits the use of federal funds to prevent states from “implementing their own state laws that authorize the use, distribution, possession or cultivation of medical marijuana.” Many marijuana advocates feared that this provision would expire under the Trump administration, so its renewal is encouraging.

Bottom Line

Like most issues, Trump’s stance on marijuana reform is unclear and continuously changing, but the people he’s appointed to office, namely Attorney General Jeff Sessions, are vehemently opposed to marijuana legalization. However, proponents of legalization can find solace in the fact that the majority of Americans are in favor of legalization and recent moves by Congress indicate that there’s no immediate threat to legal medical marijuana at this time.

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There are several markets in the world right now which should be on the scopes of international investors who want a little canna flair to their portfolio. For the most part, the safest part of the market is the international (at least to Americans) medical cannabis vertical, precisely because it is going to be so regulated. Want a green, feel good, pro-medical investment in your (institutionally backed) portfolio? Euro, Canadian, Israeli, and Australian markets are all interesting bets right now.

However there is one place that promises, for a variety of reasons, to be a hybrid from the get-go, and further backed with an enthusiasm, from a federal government, so far unseen anywhere else in the world.

For that reason, outside of Germany, there are few markets in the world this spring that have as much potential as the Greek medical cannabis market.

The country is opening its arms to foreign investment of the medical cannabis kind.

Combined with tourism, which is on the rise, and the conditions are perfect for a Mediterranean cannabis industry which not only caters to an influx of visitors already but for whom this would only be the added icing on the cake.

Think Nevada (the first state with reciprocal medical rights for tourists). Or even California, except this time with federal rights. Not even Canada (or Israel for that matter) potentially has been so opening to this kind of investment – although both are certainly opening their arms to it now. For Europeans, think Spain, with federal reform and active encouragement. Or Germany with the attitude of the Swiss and a cannabis that contains THC.

For all these reasons, Greece is also another possibility altogether.

Why?

The Federal Government Is Actively Investing In This Sector

In northern Greece, in a place called Veroia, between 2-3,000 jobs are about to come out of a really unique experiment. Golden Greece, a company responsible for coordinating the projects group of 10 investors from Canada, Kazakhstan, Poland and Israel, has invested about $500 million so far, with an expected goal of close to $2 billion. The company (and others like them) are also operating with the explicit help and support of the government.

80% of those jobs will be going to Greeks. And as such, already a great example of how a thriving industry here will prove to be a vital tool of economic stabilization for a country.

Average monthly wages hover around $700, some of the lowest in the EU. Top earners in the cannabis industry can bring home between $80-100k per year, even here.

Even better? The Greek government is also not shy about its intentions to expand into recreational – when the time is right. As seen elsewhere, the medical market is the first to open any new jurisdiction. It took Canada four years to make the transition. Given the flavor of local politics in the EU, it will probably take that long here too. But look at Canada now.

The Impact On The Rest Of Europe

One of the fundamentally more interesting impacts, besides creating an even “buzzier” tourist economy (which is already trending up again, including from German visitors), is the impact Greek green business development will have across the continent. Right now, it is beginning, particularly with the promise of foreign investment attached. That is true across Europe. For the most part, officials are also cautiously optimistic but asking for referrals and the normal business credentials. That includes verification of liquidity and other standard business norms (like background checks for officers of public companies).

In Greece, as in other places, the people getting in the door now are, for the most part, accredited investors only. But that, in turn, will seed a much broader, greener, economy that will allow smaller investors, and even more interestingly, investment funds, to enter the market here in a way unlike most of Europe for now. However, the inevitable success of those smaller models will also absolutely seed the cause for greater and wider reform. Not just in Greece, but across Europe.

For all the reluctance of politicians, Europe is going to have a very verdant and lush canna spring!

For one of the best entries into this market from a business perspective, be sure also to go to the ICBC Berlin, April 11-13. Early bird pricing still applies.

The post Why Investing In The Greek Cannabis Market Is So Tempting appeared first on CannabisFN.

Canada is poised to legalize recreational marijuana statewide this summer, putting “The Great White North” in a prime position to become a global leader in the cannabis industry. This news was revealed in 2017, following campaign pledges made by the Liberal party in the 2015 election. Job creation and economic stability are two major benefits of giving weed the green light. What’s more, cannabis legalization proves effective at dismantling the black market.

The country has been developing a multi-billion dollar legal marijuana industry for quite some time, with medical marijuana being legalized as far back as 2001. In fact, the Canadian cannabis market was worth an estimated $6.2 billion back in 2015 and according to Marijuana Business Daily, Canada’s cannabis industry will pull in an estimated annual figure of $2.3 billion-$4.5 billion by 2021!

So, which recreational marijuana brands are emerging as big game players in an industry that is grasping widespread investor attention? Let’s find out.

1. Canopy Growth Corp. – Previously known as Tweed Marijuana Inc., this Ontario-based company is hot on the stock market right now. A vast scope of brands are operated under the company, which produces a diverse variety of strains inside its 500,000 square-foot greenhouse. Some of its core brands include Tweed, Spectrum Cannabis and Bedrocan.

2. Aurora Cannabis – A pharmaceutical company headquartered in Vancouver, Aurora Cannabis is a producer and distributor of quality buds/products. Although this brand is acknowledged as Canada’s largest producer of medicinal marijuana, the company’s CEO, Terry Booth, recently raised $15 million to prepare for recreational cannabis legalization.

3. DOJA Cannabis Company – Based in the scenic Okanagan Valley, this licensed cannabis producer handcrafts its cannabis strains to satisfy consumers in both the medical and recreational marijuana markets. The company’s main aim is to develop a cannabis lifestyle brand.

4. Aphria – This producer of cannabis primarily targets the medical market, but it is setting its sights on the recreational marijuana industry. In fact, Aphria announced that it would invest CAD$10 million in the market back in December.

5. Canna Farms – A client-focused brand that boasts innovative cultivation techniques, this family-owned and operated company cultivates contaminant-free plants with glacial-fed groundwater. No pesticides are used to produce the flowers, oils and live cannabis plants, all of which are available in blended varieties.

6. CannTrust – For over 40 years, this cannabis producer has been helping in-need patients with a broad range of healthcare-focused products. The potential of legalizing cannabis for adult-use in Canada opens up a world of opportunity for CannTrust, which just obtained a license to export plants internationally.

7. Canada’s Island Garden – All of the plants cultivated by this licensed cannabis producer are grown in accordance with environmental and quality control standards. Both high-CBD and high-THC products are offered to clients.

8. Broken Coast Cannabis – This year, Broken Coast’s cannabis production facility will expand. Located on Vancouver Island, the facility is the heart of the company’s operations. Shoppers can browse by one of three main categories – marijuana, cannabis oil and accessories.

9. THC Biomed – Only the highest-quality BC-grown buds are cultivated by this major Canadian cannabis company. Some of the live plants and dried cannabis contain high levels of THC, whereas other genetics are better-suited for patients who require a dose of CBD.

10. Pi Extracts – A brand new shatter producer, Pi Extracts sells pre-packaged grams of shatter from different strains, such as OG Kush and Green Crack. The THC distillate pens provide convenience on the move.

11. Sweet Reef – If you like to indulge in sweet treats like salt water Taffy, you simply have to try the THC-laden candies produced by this cannabis edibles company. Packets are available in an assortment of fruity flavors.

12. Gods Own Concentrates – Butane extraction and Fractional Distillation are the two main extraction methods used to produce this brand’s high-end concentrates.

13. Calyx Pure CBD – Squeeze a few drops of this brand’s pure hemp oil under your tongue to experience rapid relief from chronic pain. Combined with grapeseed oil and flavorings, this potent oil is not the only product that appeals to the cannabis community. Various recreational products are also infused with enriching CBD, including beauty and skincare goods.

14. Nu THC Pills – Plant-extracted oils are contained in this brand of pills, which are created using plants grown in accordance with GMP and GPP standards. The oils are extracted using a supercritical CO2 technique.

15. Thompson Caribou Concentrates – Concentrates and shatter are sold by this brand to customers across Canada. The company is a proud winner of numerous “cups” at statewide cannabis industry competitions.

Canada’s recreational cannabis market is ever-growing and so, you can expect this list to feature a medley of new brands over the course of the next few months. In addition to the aforementioned brands, keep an eye out for products from Spark of Life CBD Tinctures, Northwest Cannabis Co and South Coast.

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The post What Are the Best Recreational Marijuana Brands in Canada? appeared first on CannabisFN.

There’s no doubt about it – cannabis is driving cryptocurrency to record levels. Back in January, this was confirmed by Tim Hockey, CEO of TD Ameritrade. During an interview with CNBC, he revealed how cannabis cryptocurrencies and bitcoin are pushing virtual currencies higher than they have ever been. Peak levels occurred in December, when cannabis cryptocurrencies accounted for 7-8 percent of trades. Now, cannabis legalization continues to spread across the United States, giving the industry an added boost.

The market is bulging with fresh new products, both medicinal and recreational. To aid providers and suppliers in facilitating transparent and secure transactions within the marijuana industry, new blockchain technology is being introduced. For market investors, this is exciting news and guess what’s even better news? The rate at which cannabis trade is skyrocketing is not anticipated to slow down any time soon. Now is the time to invest in cannabis cryptocurrency if you want to get a slice of the pot pie.

On that note, let’s take a look at some cannabis cryptocurrencies that are dominating the world of weed trading right now:

• SinglePoint Inc. (SING) – Let’s kick things off with one of the oldest and newest cannabis cryptocurrency of them all. SinglePoint initially announced its intent to develop bitcoin-based payment solutions back in 2014 and recently soft launched its beta program, SingleSeed Payments. Former Shark Tank star Kevin Harrington was recently appointed as the company’s spokesman for the upcoming release of the SinglePoint Cryptocurrency Exchange, which targets a wider opportunity.

• CannabisCoin (CANN) – Created in 2014 with the idea of helping recreational marijuana buyers to use digital coins as a means of carrying out transactions, CannabisCoin had a market cap of over $4 million as of March, 2018. A single coin valuation was $0.0588, which is a significant increase compared to the $0.002 it worth at the start of last year.

• DopeCoin (DOPE) – Worth $0.0629 with a market cap of over $7 million, DopeCoin is a specially designed cryptocurrency created for speedier business. The decentralized Bitcoin-style digital currency offers an irreversible and secure transaction for anyone who uses the online financial network’s proof of work cryptocurrency. Utilizing scrypt algorithm,  DopeCoin has an average blocktime of just 60 seconds.

• HempCoin (THC) – Believed to be one of the best (if not the best) cannabis cryptocurrencies of 2018, HempCoin is widely used in the agriculture industry, as well as inside medical/recreational cannabis dispensaries. It was introduced in March 2014 with the sole purposes of being an open-source cryptocurrency for global contributors. A fairly liquid type of cryptocurrency with a market cap of over $17 million, the coin was valued at $0.076 as of March 2018. HempCoin was included in the list of the initial 30 digital currencies to be created in 2014.

• PotCoin (POT) – Another coin launched in 2014 was PotCoin, which was conveniently welcomed to the cryptocurrency market at 4:20 pm. Adding to its ‘420’ allure is the fact that approximately 420 million coins are in circulation. As of March 2018, the coin was worth $0.123. Within the space of a year, PotCoin’s market cap has risen from $4 million to over $26 million. Developed from Litecoin, the peer-to-peer cannabis cryptocurrency is set to become the main form of payment used in the international marijuana industry.

• CannaCoin (CCN) – Operating on a decentralized blockchain platform, this coin is being traded in a large number of weed-friendly states. Also introduced in 2014, CannaCoin’s market cap was about $330,000 as of March 2018, with each individual coin being valued at $0.07. Industry experts anticipate the coin’s value will exceed $10 in just a few years!

• Paragon Coin (PRG) – Backed by celebrities, such as rapper-entrepreneur The Game, this coin’s Individual Coin Offering (ICO) could see its value rise in the future. Jessica VerSteeg is the female entrepreneur behind the company, which was inspired by her former NFL player boyfriend’s opioid-related death. Paragon Coin’s market cap was over $24 million as of March 2018 and each coin was individually valued at $0.371.

It’s not just cryptocurrencies that the marijuana industry is creating, however. Social networking platforms are also simplifying the way cannabis community members connect. One such example is community-driven Smoke Network. This platform is both scalable and labor-saving, since it will be developed on a DPoS blockchain.

Each and every user who curates content and distribute it via the platform will be rewarded with cannabis currency, or SMOKE coins as they are called on the social network. It is a genius idea for further accelerating blockchain and helping business owners to get noticed in a flourishing field.

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If the failure of the class action in New York challenging the Schedule I classification of cannabis is any guide to investors in the canna-space, it is this. Federal law on cannabis will not be changing anytime soon in the U.S. The DEA refuses to budge. Congress is failing to act. The DOJ has a new license to prosecute. And Trump appears to feel free to throw the industry under the bus to cement questionable foreign policy objectives (see Israel.)

No sophisticated algorithm or market chart is needed to spot the obvious trends here, Cronos’ recent acceptance to the Nasdaq notwithstanding. In fact, that listing, which is based on the fact that the company will not be importing or selling weed in the U.S. should only be another clear market signal.

Investments in U.S. side cannabusiness are going to continue to be risky and carry all sorts of nasty potential implications for the time being and at least immediate future.

That means that the savvy canna investor, particularly in the U.S., is looking abroad right now. And there are several tempting possibilities. Reform is afoot in Europe this spring, with federal consequences that only bode good news for the nascent industry regionally. Here are a few broad categories of where to start to look for cannabis investments that are in companies that are federally sanctioned in at least one country. Not all of these investments will be in public companies. But here are a few of the more interesting opportunities now afoot in Europe.

Canadian Companies With Global Plays

The big boys of the Canadian weed biz are in Europe and setting up long-term footholds in Portugal (Tilray), Denmark (Spektrum-Canopy and Pedianos-Aurora) and Italy (Aurora and Aphria-Nuuvera). This is one of the easiest and lowest risk entries into the global canna space you can make. Even better, these companies are increasingly, and conveniently, listing themselves on legit exchanges. It doesn’t get better than this. And all of them are in a position of being asked to supply at this point, a continually growing consumer and medical market for cannabis in several countries. Tilray of course is not public with apparently no plans for that in the near future. But they are backed by a canna-focussed venture capital fund which keeps raising money (from investors).

International Hybrids With Interesting Options

Of note are also the Israeli and Australian firms (who are less likely to be public but more likely to have cheaper wholesale prices to get into the market) who are now circling the EU canna-market.

For a safe bet (simply because there literally is not enough cannabis in Europe right now of the legit variety), and an international cannabis play, look no further than these companies if you want an interesting market entry. This is also a place where a few insurance and technology plays may well arise, particularly in the ex-im space.

German Companies With Strategic Partnerships

There is a reason that all of the Canadian companies who are moving forward in this market have paired with local companies, one way or the other. Spektrum Cannabis was formerly MedCann, founded by an American expat (Pierre Debs), and is the result of Canopy’s acquisition of the same. Aurora cannot be mentioned without the hyphenated relationship they have with Pedianos (which pulled off a coups in Italy in January on the licensing front). Aphria is moving forward in Europe twinned now with the Hamburg-based Nuuvera. Even Bedrocan has its German partner. That said, the German side of the equation is still likely to be a private company.

This spring, however, cannabis fever in Germany is likely to go into another frenzy. The federal bid decision has still not been announced. If it is (or even redone as the persistent rumour continues to insist) look for opportunities to invest directly in the German cultivation biz. That however, is already a 30-60 million euro proposition (add approximately 20% for dollar conversions). No crowd financing allowed, if comments from officials are anything to go by. Federal grow experience and GMP capability are not likely to be waived either.

Dutch Companies Looking Beyond Coffeeshop Trade

Don’t count the Dutch out. So far, with a few noted exceptions, the Dutch growers have stayed out of the newer breed of discussion in Europe with regards to GMP cert as well as investment. That said, there is an industry there, with at least third generation breeding at this point.

Investments here, of the foreign variety, however, are usually based on relationships and private investments (so far). That said, never count the Dutch out when it comes to mercantilism and specialized agriculture of high value. Don’t overlook Holland, in other words.

Spanish Clubs Looking For A Foreign Sugar Daddy (or Momma)

Investors who are interested in a more venture capital kind of investment of the smaller kind (sort of like the early days of Colorado) should look at the club scene in Barcelona, in particular. It is high risk, but the best managed, most business-like clubs are moving forward on more regulated grows. It is an interesting market that requires time and energy to research, but if that is the kind of thing that floats your boat, the opportunities are there. And, excuse the pun, growing.

Baltic-Based Companies Plus Greece

This year is going to see a number of interesting canna plays in the Baltics. Most of them will probably be helmed or financed by deeper-pocketed cannabis companies. However that is not going to be true in every case. That is precisely why scouts are combing the region right now looking for the right opportunities. It is still unfolding and volatile, but if that is your cup of canna-tea, it is certainly brewing right now.

If you are in the mood for fun and sun of the Greek medical variety, the possibilities are endless and in need of good-old American capital, entrepreneurial inspiration and boot-strapping. Think Nevada on the Mediterranean, with better Taramasalata. The gay-themed tourist business that has been international here for years is going to be a lucrative niche market, particularly if the B&B of choice on Mikonos has its own private grow. Greece also has the distinction of very publicly throwing its doors open to marijuana investors of all varieties, even the smaller kind. In fact, this is the first federally sanctioned market in the EU to do so. Don’t think this action is waiting for anyone.

Africa And South America Are Also Options

One of the more interesting and developing plays underway in Europe is very exotic (and far flung). Companies based in both Latin America and Africa now looking to enter the German market in particular. Many of them are established distributors, but there are a few highly entrepreneurial efforts underway. Some of which are in the market for investment. It goes without saying that all of this is caveat emptor of the highest degree. However that traffic is now underway for a reason.

Where To Find These Plays?

Reading the industry press is one option in particular, the English-language cannabis-focussed press with an international focus.

However there is another alternative. Going to industry conferences. This spring, after Spannabis, the place to be is the ICBC in Berlin. The conference will be entering its second year in April. Yes, it requires the investment of airfare and hotel accommodations beyond the conference fees. However for those who are ready to brave the fascinating (and federally regulated) world of cannabis investment in Europe with a few bucks, the time has never been better to take the plunge and investigate what is going on. There is also no other conference in the German market – and few in Europe – that attracts the same level and global mix of investors, regulators, cannabis companies, distributors and media.

And while there are differences, and complications about doing business internationally, here is the best thing about all of this. There is no Mutt and Jeff in the White House and DOJ to get in the way.

The post What Cannabis Investors Should Expect From Europe This Spring appeared first on CannabisFN.

Cannabis legalization is fueling immense growth in the global marijuana industry, with more ‘ganjapreneurs’ planting the business seed than ever before. For several years, the industry has been evolving, but 2018 is predicted to yield major results for cannabis-related businesses.

Launching a Business in the Cannabis Industry

According to an investment activity report published by Viridian Capital Advisors, global financing for businesses in the marijuana industry hit $1.4 billion as little as six weeks after the New Year! As the world’s most diverse medicinal plant, it’s not really surprising that entrepreneurs are capitalizing on the “Green Rush.” If you are contemplating ways to cash in on the legalization of weed, a vast expanse of business options are at your fingertips.

Below, we touch upon 9 ideas that offer a good return on investment (and time) in an ever-growing field:

1. Bud and Breakfast (Initial investment of $30,000-$40,000) – This business idea could mean big business for states that have legalized/will legalize recreational cannabis use. The idea is to accommodate weed-loving guests by inviting them into a rented private space, in which they can smoke, vape and snack on THC-laden edibles surrounded by comfort – heavenly.

2. Social Cannabis Painting Classes (Initial investment of $2,000) – The cannabis community is incredibly social. It offers an amazing way for cannabis connoisseurs to connect with one another, learn and grow their circle. Why not encourage members of the community to congregate, get high and unleash their creative streak? Take inspiration from Puff Pass and Paint, which was launched by an artistic female named Heidi Keyes back in 2014.

3. Extraction and Lab Equipment Supplier (Initial investment of $160,000) – With an affluence of new businesses creating cannabis extracts for sale and distribution worldwide, the demand for extraction and lab equipment is, understandably, rising. Stock up on supplies and sell them at a slightly higher price than you paid for them as a way of reaping profits. Although the initial investment will be fairly large, the returns will more than make up for it.

4. Cannabis Event Planner (Initial investment of $10,000-$20,000) – From weddings and birthday bashes to educational seminars and product launches, a cannabis event planner can aid a broad scope of clients with tailored services. You should be ambitious, charismatic and possess an eye for detail to execute a pot party effectively, so keep this in mind!

5. Cannabis Bike Tour Operator (Initial investment of $20,000) – Educating people on marijuana can be made fun if you launch a cannabis-themed bike tour of a city that has legalized the plant for medical and/or recreational use. Offer an insight into cannabis culture by providing tour attendees with a guided tour of local dispensaries and businesses. The startup cost should include essential equipment such as bikes, helmets, raincoats, maintenance tools and bike locks.

6. Herbal Florist (Initial investment of $1,500) – A bouquet of lush green buds is not an uncommon sight to see at a wedding nowadays, not to mention other weed-focused events. Becoming a niche florist in the cannabis industry means that your eco-friendly business may attract mainstream clients! A shining example of a herbal florist company that has done exceedingly well is Buds and Blossoms. Based in the City of Centennial, this flower delivery service specializes in custom arrangements.

7. Cannabis Catering Company (Initial investment of $100,000) – Have you heard about cannabis wine pairings and tasting events? They are all the rage lately! Take catering to a whole new level by preparing cannabis-inspired menus featuring THC-infused beverages, appetizers and gourmet entrees, such as cannabutter-marinated steak. Cultivating Spirits is a prime example of a catering company that offers kitchen and dining supplies for weed aficionados.

8. Medical Cannabis Delivery Service (Initial investment of $400,000-$600,000) – Not everybody will have access to transport, making it difficult for some people to obtain medical-grade weed. Simplify the process for medical marijuana patients by launching an app similar to Eaze. You should either hire an app developer or utilize app development software to develop an on-demand online tool that allows for easy browsing and buying.

9. Marijuana Industry Consultant (Initial investment of $5,000) – With a small startup cost and extensive knowledge on the cannabis industry as a whole, you could position yourself as an expert consultant who assists clients with everything marijuana-related, from branding and web design to regulatory compliance.

10. Cannabis Dispensary Interior Designer (Initial investment of $15,000) – Do you have an eye for interior design? Follow in Megan Stone’s footsteps by aiding cannabis entrepreneurs in their quest to create architecturally unique spaces. Examples of the equipment you’ll need to invest in include computers, printers, graphic design software and client-tracking tools.

Using Cannabis Cryptocurrencies for Safe Business Transactions

Although cannabis trade in the U.S. (and the rest of the world) is gaining rapid momentum, you need to pay some thought to the fiscal side of things if you want to avoid potential speedbumps. Since marijuana is primarily a cash-focused industry, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are an essential ingredient in the entrepreneurial game.

Federal banking restrictions need no put a limit on business transactions, such as payroll, retail sales and taxes. PotCoin, DopeCoin and CannabisCoin are just three examples of cannabis cryptocurrencies that can be utilized to streamline transactions between businesses and customers. Legal to own and make purchases with, cannabis cryptocurrencies are a traceable alternative to cash transactions. As time progresses, they cryptocurrencies are anticipated to replace cash transactions altogether!

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Cannabidiol, better known as CBD, is becoming increasingly popular in mainstream culture as more and more people learn just how beneficial it can be. And from that increased popularity has come a wide range of new ways to ingest it, from highly concentrated drops to topical lotions to capsules. The best form for you depends on your needs, but for those looking for a daily supplement of nature’s little miracle-worker, you can’t go wrong with CBD capsules.

What is CBD?

Before we delve into the benefits of CBD capsules, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of what CBD is so you can decide if capsules are the right intake method for you.

CBD is one of many chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant called cannabinoids, but it won’t get you high. Cannabis contains over 100 variations of these cannabinoids that have different effects on the body. The cannabinoid responsible for that stoned feeling so often associated with marijuana is called tetrahydrocannabinol AKA THC. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, so you can work, drive, or do anything else after ingesting it without risking impairment.

But even though CBD doesn’t get you high doesn’t mean it doesn’t offer a wide range of benefits for the body.

CBD binds to special receptors in your body called cannabinoid receptors. You can think of these in terms of CBD being a key and cannabinoid receptors are the locks. Most of these receptors are found in your central nervous system, but they’re also in your digestive tract, reproductive organs, and your skin. The collective system of these receptors is called your endocannabinoid system (ECS).

Your ECS is responsible for many important functions including your mood, memory, pain, immune function, appetite, and sleep, just to name a few. Due to CBD’s ability to bind to receptors in the ECS, it’s reported benefits include everything from alleviating anxiety and lifting your mood to improving your quality of sleep to reducing pain and inflammation.

That being said, your ideal CBD intake method largely depends on your needs and whether you’re looking to relieve an acute ailment or you’re in the market for an addition to your daily multivitamin.

CBD Capsules vs Other Methods

The following are some of the most common CBD intake methods and what they’re used for.

CBD Tinctures and Oils

Tinctures and oils are among the most common types of CBD. They contain a high concentration of CBD and typically come in a bottle-dropper form or in a syringe. Their high concentration makes them ideal for targeting specific ailments rather than as a daily supplement.

CBD Vapor

CBD vapor is just as it sounds—it’s the process of ingesting CBD through vaporization. It tends to have a lower concentration than some of the other methods, but unlike tinctures and oils, which take 30-60 minutes to take effect, the effects are felt right away. Therefore, it’s easy to adjust the dosage you want in real-time.

CBD Topicals

CBD topicals are creams or lotions that you apply to your skin to experience the effects. These are ideal for those who are looking relieve physical pain, like arthritis, as many report that they experience a reduction in pain and inflammation after applying it.

CBD Capsules

Finally, we have CBD capsules. Capsules are ideal for daily supplementation because they’re a simple and easy way to get your daily intake of a moderate amount of CBD. Plus, they allow you to avoid the taste of CBD oil and tinctures, which some find aversive. The capsules typically come in dosages that range from 10-50 mg, which you can adjust depending on your body’s needs.

Where to Buy CBD Capsules

CBD is legal across the United States, even where cannabis is illegal, so an increasing number of retailers, both online and in-person, are offering it for sale. That said, you should take care that you purchase it from a retailer with high quality standards who’s transparent about their sourcing practices.

If you’re not sure where to buy from, start with these companies:

Healthy Hemp Oil

Healthy Hemp Oil sells five different brands of CBD capsules that range from 15-25mg depending on your needs. They also sell a wide range of other CBD products, so they’re a great place to start exploring your options.

The CBDistillery

This Colorado-based company makes its own CBD products that range from tinctures to suppositories to wax. They offer one option for CBD capsules, which contain 30 capsules of 25mg of CBD for $50.

Highland Pharms

If you’re looking for higher dose capsules, look no further than Highland Pharms. They make their own capsules in four different strengths: 15mg, 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg.

Green Wellness Life

If variety is what you’re after, then Green Wellness Life is a good place to start. They sell over 10 different brands of CBD capsules that range in dosage from 10mg to 50mg per capsule.

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When will they find their bottom? That’s a question that both institutional and retail investors are likely asking themselves after cannabis-based stocks on all the global stock markets have taken a nose-dive in recent times.

According to Bloomberg News, this past Friday marked the tell-tale signs that retail investors were “panic selling” as Canopy Growth (parent company of Tweed Inc) tumbled down to just $25 after reaching highs above $40 just as 2017 was coming to a close – a loss of approximately 40 percent. And while Canopy is the bulwark that investors often look to determine the health of cannabis stocks, it wasn’t alone: Aphria fell 14 percent while Aurora dropped 14 percent.

“People are panicking because they are losing their money,” Chris Damas, editor of the BCMI Cannabis Report, told Bloomberg Markets through email. “Stocks are in bear market territory.”

Just last month things were looking on the up and up for the industry. After a contentious hostile turnover attempt, Aurora eventually gave Cannimed an offer they couldn’t refuse, and the two sides have negotiated a takeover on friendly terms. That seemed to put the market in good spirits.

But then the bad news started to flow. Jeff Sessions rescinded the Cole Memo that allowed many state-licensed operators across the United States to avoid prosecution if they followed some golden rules that included that they do not sell cannabis to minors. Rescinding the Cole Memo provided a great deal of uncertainty to the markets – because it’s anyone’s guess as to whether prosecutors across the United States will actually go after operations that are legal for medical and recreational purposes in dozens of states.

Then, more bad news. Right-leaning members of Canada’s Senate wanted more time to debate the country’s plan to legalize the drug, while progressive, Liberal-leaning senators wanted to push ahead with approving the legalization plan so that the government could meet its self-imposed July 2018 deadline. On February 15, the Senate came to a compromise: Instead of delaying review of the bill for months on end, the final vote on the Cannabis Act (Bill C-45) would be June 7^th 2018.

At the time, Senator Tony Dean tried to spin it as a positive, tweeting that “I thought it could be done by May, some conservatives argued for The Fall. The beauty of a consensual agreement is that everyone gets to declare victory.”

The markets, however, reacted more negatively to the news.

When looking at fundamentals – irrespective of any of the bad news – some analysts caution that they believe that the entire cannabis sector is massively overvalued at the moment. Traditional metrics, such as earnings and revenue, are only marginally considered, as new metrics come in. These days, cannabis companies are often valued based on the planned and approved amount of square-feet of cultivation space, regardless of the company’s history of getting the hard work done. Another metric is the amount (typically in kilograms) of cannabis that each company is authorized to grow.

Its important to note that at its current market cap, Canopy Growth is currently valued at more than 50 times its revenue, which is higher than industry competitors and also much higher than stocks in other sectors, such as mining, gold, and consumer technology.

According to the Motley Fool, there are five hidden risks with investing in pot stocks. Sean Williams, author at Motley Fool, cautions first about the political risks that we mentioned earlier. He too notes the Cole memo rescinded on January 4 2018 as a potential market mover. Second, Wiliams points to oversupply. We don’t know how much cannabis Canadians will consume when the drug becomes legal – estimates have ranged that could cost companies to lose out on billions of dollars in revenue depending on which estimates come to be true. Williams points to the 3.7 million square feet of space that Canopy Growth is growing as a potential indicator of potential oversupply.

Shareholder dilution is another problem. Because cannabis companies do not have access to typical financing from banks, these companies have to rely on financing methods that give out large tranches of stock. This is particularly the case with stocks that operate in the United States – as banks are just starting to jump on the cannabis investing bandwagon.

Williams also points to two more problems with pot stocks: investor emotions, and inexperienced management. Because much of the money flowing into pot stocks comes from retail investors, the “panic selling” we talked about earlier could lead to dramatic drops in pot stock prices. Add to that the inexperienced management personnel that does not have the typical experience in capital markets, and viola – you have a disaster waiting to happen.

Where will the bottom be? We may not know for months – since cannabis companies are valued at multiples much, much higher than in other capital market sectors, and the industry is fraught with the specific concerns highlighted in this piece, the bottom may be yet to be found.

The upshot is that the industry continues to experience tremendous growth around the world. These valuations could come down as revenue and profits begin to materialize, and these stocks could still be a good value at their current levels. This is particularly true if Canada becomes a global leader in the burgeoning cannabis industry.

The post When Will Cannabis Stocks Find Their Bottom? appeared first on CannabisFN.

The legalization of adult-use cannabis in Canada could open the door to a C$22.6 billion market, according to Deloitte analysts, but the nationwide rollout has been consistently delayed.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is on record saying that cannabis would be legal by July 7th, but according to the AP on Feb 15th, 2018, Health Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor has admitted that legalization won’t be ready until August or even September. She has repeatedly voiced concerns that provinces and territories of Canada will need time to implement their own laws and recreational cannabis sales infrastructure.

Current estimates stand at eight to twelve weeks beyond the process of bureaucracy in order for C-45 and C-46 to become law in Canada, but certain hurdles must be crossed before any cannabis can be legally sold.

Provincial Implementation

Provinces and territories will have the opportunity to control the way they wish to implement the legalization of recreational cannabis.

The Federal government has set the age and the permissions on carry weight, home grows and more, but provinces and territories will be able to establish their own models for recreational shops – whether it be licensure or state-run facilities is up to the given territory or province.

Though the Health Minister has expectations of an eight to twelve week implementation timeline, that estimate may be rather hopeful considering the first harvest of cannabis grown for recreational sale will take at least eight weeks to grow if they’re subject to different standards than medical harvests.

One month to have brick-and-mortar shops, quality control, packaging, etc. in place after that is a tight cut off but the future will tell whether this delay will roll over into another.

Potential Political Hurdles

While the Prime Minister calls the shots and has the public support in a clear majority, the Tory party is still demanding more research on the effects of recreational legalization and they widely consider the original pushback to June to July, (a June deadline was originally proposed by a liberal in the Senate named Peter Harder) as a victory. They are certain to embrace any future setbacks on the deadline of legalization of cannabis.

Law Enforcement Concerns

Canada’s law enforcement agencies have been vocal against legalization as well. Not only did they ask for more time before the implementation of cannabis legalization, they also specifically requested that the government “rethink” their position on allowing home grows.

Despite patients having the legal right to grow cannabis for years, some in Canada’s law enforcement community believe that widespread home grow operations could lead to an increase in associated drug crime.

Though all this news comes off a bit grim for Canadians hoping to celebrate Canada Day with their first legal toke, the reality of cannabis legalization in Canada is still very positive. Deadlines are being set, the PM is holding fast to his commitment to the issue, and even the dissent among Tories and police cannot stem the tide of popular support for legalization across the country.

Though August or September have been mentioned by the Health Minister, don’t be surprised if actual implementation takes longer still.  What will be important is that along the way, checkpoints are being crossed and the bills take solid steps closer to law without any hiccups.

Rest assured that by next Canada Day, cannabis will be legal in the country and in all likelihood, it will come much sooner than that.

The post Canada’s New Legalization Timeline appeared first on CannabisFN.

In less than two months that recreational cannabis has become legal in California, the state’s cannabis industry could be on the verge of a major crisis.

On February 19, the California Growers Association (CGA) released a lengthy report entitled An Emerging Crisis: Barriers to Entry in California Cannabis. In it, the CGA discusses the consequences of larger companies having more access to the cannabis marketplace than smaller businesses due to strict licensing requirements that favor companies with abundant resources.

At present, less than one percent of California farmers have received licensure from the state so far. However, it’s still unknown just how many of those farmers are actively interested in acquiring a cannabis cultivation license. The CGA report suggests that it could be anywhere from 25 to 75 percent of state growers who are interested, but even if it’s the lower end of that spectrum, the CGA warns the consequences for the industry as a whole are dire.

The report insists that strict regulation rules and high associated costs force independent and artisan growers out of the marketplace and into the black market. It quotes a Sonoma County cultivator who summarizes the problem:

“The unintended consequence of making it so difficult at the local and state level to enter the regulated market is that 80-90% of those who were working with dispensaries prior to 1/1/2018 are being pushed to the black market. This is not only bad for the regulated market because so much high-quality produce is no flooding the black market, but crime is increasing as a result as well. I am truly heartbroken to see what the regulatory system has done to the artisan cultivators and manufacturers who were creative diverse, boutique products. These people who built this industry are not allowed to participate.”

In other words, many of the people responsible for pushing Proposition 64 to the forefront of the political landscape and getting marijuana legalized in the state are being pushed out of the market by large companies with more resources.

And given the current state of conditions, it seems the CGA right to be concerned. As of February 7th, less than one percent of grower applicants received a license.

According to the report, the small number of licenses going to independent growers has little to do with operational problems on their part—many of these artisanal and small businesses have developed some of the most diverse and sustainable cultivation and distribution methods in the market. CGA argues that their failure to obtain licensure is due to, “the one-time costs of regulations or the inability to comply with regulations because of local land-use policy.”

Currently, California county regulations are all over the map in terms of what local businesses can do, diverging on fundamental rules by county. So far, 25 counties have approved a local ban on commercial cannabis activity “with no clear plan to reconsider the issue.” Meanwhile, 13 counties approved ordinances allowing for and regulating commercial cannabis activity. Complicating things even further is the fact that the 13 counties who approved it also have diverging rules.

“The systematic risk is that large businesses with more flexibility will locate in a small pool of friendly cities and counties, saturating the regulated California market, while existing small businesses will be left without a path to compliance.”

But even small growers in supportive jurisdictions face substantial barriers. The report cites those barriers in detail, which include the exclusion of growers from state cannabis event licenses, the prohibition on direct cannabis marketing, a dearth of licensed testing laboratories, and complications with respect to transportation licenses and recreational vs. medicinal production licenses.

Beyond the ethical and moral implications of pushing small growers out of the market, the market consolidation from larger operators could lead to four critical consequences:

Biodiversity Issues

Because the majority of large businesses depend on standardization and reliability, a consolidated market is likely to lead to less cannabis strain diversity while limiting new strain discovery.

Overproduction

According to the CGA, California produces 15 million pounds of cannabis per year but only consumes three million. Because there’s an overabundance of product, increasing large-scale businesses could ultimately lead to overproduction.

More Pesticides

Industrial agriculture relies on pesticides in cultivation, and this rings particularly true for large-scale cannabis growers. On the other hand, smaller businesses are better able to manage the quality and standardization of their product without the use of pesticides.

Economic Collapse

The CGA reports that there are 68,000 small cannabis farms in California that employ an average of 3.6 employees per farm, totaling more than 258,000 employees in all. If these farms fail, so do the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of people, which could lead to a dire economic fallout.

In response to these problems, CGA executive director, Hezekiah Allen said he’s keeping a close eye on “no less than 99 [cannabis] bills” in the state legislature. Most of said bills address a range of regulatory issues such as cultivator sales at events, marketing and advertising, delivery oversight, hemp cultivar certification, and many others designed to push back against the marketplace marginalization of small growers.

The post California’s Emerging Cannabis Crisis appeared first on CannabisFN.

Canada’s plan to legalize marijuana is complicated by the fact that each province has to devise their own rules with regards to sales, consumption, and cultivation of cannabis. You can grow up to four plants in provinces across the country, although there are a couple that outright ban the practice. That’s just one of the reasons why we’ve come up with this handy guide to some of the most prominent provinces in Canada.

British Columbia Cannabis Laws

British Columbia is undertaking a hybrid approach, whereby cannabis would be sold by both public and private retailers, although it would be mandatory for municipalities to approve locations. Online sales would be conducted by the government and consumption would generally be allowed wherever tobacco smoking is allowed. Only those 19 and above will be able to purchase.

Alberta Cannabis Laws

In Alberta, retail sales will be handled by the private sector. It’s not known how many retail locations there would be, but the province has implied they would license up to 250 stores in the first year. Like British Columbia, you would generally be able to consume cannabis wherever smoking cigarettes is permitted. If you’re 18 or older, you’ll be able to purchase cannabis.

Saskatchewan Cannabis Laws

Saskatchewan’s retail sales will be run by the private sector, with the province expecting 60 locations in 40 municipalities and communities. Those private retailers would be able to sell cannabis online to its residents. Cultivation at home is allowed but landlords would be able to introduce reasonable limits.

Manitoba Cannabis Laws

Like Quebec, home growing will not be permitted. Retailers will be private companies and will be chosen through a request for proposal. Cities will about to prohibit stores in their jurisdiction. One interesting difference with Manitoba is that unlike most other provinces, the private stores themselves would be able to conduct online sales. 19 years of age or up? You’re in luck – you’ll be able to purchase cannabis.

Ontario Cannabis Laws

The Ontario government will sell cannabis in 40 stores to start for purchasers age 19 and up. These stores will be government-run, and you’ll also be able to order cannabis from the provincial government online. Recreational smokers will only be able to smoke in private homes, but if you are a valid medical user, you can generally light up where tobacco smoking is permitted.

Quebec Cannabis Laws

Quebec will also run their own government-run stores, with 15 to start. Unlike most provinces, you won’t be able to grow at home, and you’ll be subject to a 150g possession limit in private places (in most provinces there is no such private limit). We don’t know what the stores will look like but we do have a name: The Société de Québecoise de Cannabis. If you’re 19 years of age or older, you can buy marijuana in Quebec.

Newfoundland & Labrador Cannabis Laws

This province will be accepting a number of private retail stores through a Request for Proposal. It has already been announced that Tweed (and its parent company Canopy Growth) would be operating four stores in this province. Unlike most provinces, the government itself won’t wholesale or distribute cannabis. Cannabis will be sold directly from licensed producers to private stores. Like Ontario, cannabis can only be consumed in private residences. You’ll have to be 19 years old or older to purchase in the province.

New Brunswick Cannabis Laws

Those aged 18 and up will be able to shop at government-run stores dubbed “CannabisNB”. 11 locations will open at the start, with none of them being within 300m from schools. Home cultivation is allowed but must be in an enclosed, locked space. You can toke up in private residences, but even that’s only the case if you get the consent of the occupant.

Nova Scotia Cannabis Laws

This province will have 9 government-run cannabis stores that will be inside of existing liquor stores (though in a separate area). You’ll have to be 19 years old (or older) to shop in the stores. You will be able to cultivate at home.

Prince Edward Island Cannabis Laws

Those 19 years old and up can shop in the stores which will be run by the government. These stores will be separate, standalone stores that do not sell booze, and so far, there is set to be four of them (in Charlottetown, Summerside, Montague, and West Prince). Residents can also order online from the government.

Yukon Cannabis Laws

Residents of Yukon that are 19 years of age will be able to purchase from one public government-run store that is set to be up and running when legalization comes into play. Like PEI, there won’t be any alcohol sold alongside booze, and you’ll be able to buy cannabis online from the government.

Northwest Territories Cannabis Laws

NW is taking a different approach than most provinces, putting sales of cannabis within existing public liquor stores for those 19 and up. You can only smoke in private residence, and only where the owner consents.

Nunavut Cannabis Laws

Lastly, Nunavut. Like a few other provinces, consumption will be allowed where tobacco is, but will also be restricted from vehicles, school grounds, hospitals, or playgrounds. The territory plans to have a hybrid private-public approach to sell to people 19 and up, but they have also announced that there likely won’t be actual retail stores in 2018. Unlike alcohol, there won’t be “dry” communities where cannabis consumption is totally prohibited.

The post A Breakdown of Provincial Cannabis Laws appeared first on CannabisFN.

With eyes on Europe right now as new announcements and deals were announced almost weekly during the first six weeks of the year, it is clear that the EU is not the only centre of all things international and cannabinoid related.

Australian development, pumped in part also by the money and expertise of the largest Canadian firms, is also proceeding apace.

In the first week of February, as the world suddenly realized that the Italian military were getting out of the pot producing business, Cronos Group unveiled a massive Australian joint venture with Australian company NewSouthern Capital Pty Ltd to launch Cronos Australia Pty Ltd. The group has just announced the first phase of an AUS$10 million (USD$8 million) production facility to meet demand in both Australia and other parts of Asia.

It is a prescient move indeed, coming just weeks before Benjamin Netanyahu put Israel’s about-to-be approved export plans on ice after a request from Donald Trump. In fact, Australian cannabis firms and the Canadians they are partnering with, appear to be the immediate beneficiary of this latest anti-cannabis salvo from the White House. Cronos specifically, had just established as of September 2017, a strategic joint venture with Kibbutz Gan Shmuel in Israel for the production of cannabis and its export to 35 countries and other parts of Asia.

The Evolving Cannabinoid Export Market Map

Australia is going to be a critical launching point for the Southern Hemispheric cannabis revolution. Not to mention a valuable source of raw product for firms participating in the global one. The country represents a large, domestic, English-speaking audience, but producers Down Under are not shy about their aspirations internationally.

That starts with the rest of Asia. With Israel out of the picture on this front, it sets up Canadian-Australian partnerships of the kind that are now forming in fact, to establish a lock-up on international distribution relationships for whole countries.

A look at who else has blazed a path in Australia recently, only bears this out. The largest Canadian LPs, including Canopy and Aurora, have also entered the market via similar partnerships.

However, it does not stop there. It is clear that as much as Canadians are leapfrogging into the country, these Australian firms are right in the thick of Euro action, back into (particularly) Germany and Eastern Europe.

Cronos, in fact, made news last fall by entering into a distribution deal in Germany that puts its product in over 12,000 pharmacies around the country.

There is a clear connection to what is going on in Australia, Canada and Germany, right now, in other words, and Cronos is right in the middle of it.

The Race To Source Cheap, Abundant, High Quality Crops

As the ongoing drama about exports in Israel demonstrate, those firms and countries who position themselves in the evolving medical marijuana source game – globally – will be able to lock up world-wide distribution rights for at least the next generation. If not hold a monopoly position in the most valuable cannabis markets as they transition, inevitably, to recreational use.

In the meantime, however, it means that a handful of firms (less than 10), all with Canadian roots or connections, can now source the cheapest cannabis on the planet, from all the major centres of production now in existence or about to be in construction.

For Canadians, Danes, Australians and Germans (among a few others), this means that medical crops will come from home first. But in the face of lagging production, or even shortages, cheaper markets will inevitably begin to supply, where it is cost efficient, some qualities of oil, extract and actual pharmacized cannabinoids to such western and more wealthy markets.

So what does this newest announcement really say about Cronos? It is a firm indisputably in the global club of major cannabis producers. And it is beyond doubt that Australian grown cannabis may well end up (at least) in a pharmacy near you.

The post Cronos Unveils Next Part of Its Asia if not Global Cannabis Strategy appeared first on CannabisFN.

On January 1st of this year, California finally began allowing the legal sale of marijuana for recreational purposes.  According to state estimates, approximately 400 businesses are licensed to sell cannabis, and that number is expected to grow considerably in the coming months and years.

As of now, California is the biggest state to legalize cannabis for recreational use. From an economic standpoint, it largely overshadows other legal marijuana states, with GreenWave Advisors, a cannabis financial analyst, estimating that the industry could be worth $5.1 billion by the end of this year. Moreover, a report from the investment bank Cowen predicts that California legalization might triple the size of the United States’ cannabis industry as a whole within ten years.

That being said, the California cannabis industry is a force to be reckoned with, growing in size every day with many predicting that it will become a multibillion-dollar industry in only a handful of years. And given that the majority of adults in the United States approve legalization—64% in 2017 compared to 36% ten years prior—it’s a safe bet that this industry isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

If you’re looking to get a piece of California’s massive marijuana industry, then consider investing in one (or several) of the growing list of publicly-traded cannabis companies in the state.

Name	Description	Market Cap
CannaRoyalty	While this company is based in Canada, it has a heavy footprint in the California cannabis market since its statewide legalization. It provides upfront capital to licensed cannabis businesses in exchange for revenue royalty, invests capital in exchange for shares or equity, and enters into licensing agreements with management teams in legal cannabis jurisdictions to license the use of owned brands. The company’s investments settle in research and intellectual property, brands development, and industry infrastructure.	193.44M
United Cannabis Corp.	This company is engaged in the medical spa management business, providing products, services, and intellectual property to the cannabis industry. It owns intellectual property as it relates to legalized growth, production, manufacturing, marketing, management, utilization and distribution of medical and recreational marijuana products. The company owns Harborside Health Center, which manufactures Bubbleman products in California.	68.339M
Terra Tech	Terra Tech is a vertically-integrated cannabis agriculture company that focuses on cultivating and providing medical cannabis in the form of hydroponic produce and cannabis products. Through its subsidiary, GrowOp Technology, it oversees design, marketing, and sale of hydroponic equipment developed to create sustainable cultivation solutions. Additionally, it’s a retail seller of local hydroponic produce, herbs, and flower through another of its subsidiaries, Edible Garden Corp. In California, the company operates a medical marijuana dispensary called Blum.	252.79M
GrowLife, Inc.	This company provides farming soil, hydroponic equipment, organic plant nutrients, and other products to specialty grow operations throughout the United States. Its subsidiary, GrowLife Hydroponics, is what the company primarily sells through, which distributes and sells over 3,000 products by way of its distribution channel, Greners.com, and through various regional retail stores. GrowLife serves a community of commercial and urban cultivators growing specialty crops such as organic greens and plant-based medicines.	40.42M
GreenGro Technologies, Inc.	GreenGro Technologies focuses on indoor and outdoor agricultural science systems for consumer and commercial farming markets. It provides manufacturing and sale of vertical cultivation systems as well as facilities design. It also provides design, construction, and maintenance services to grow and cultivation operations in the medical and recreational marijuana sectors. Through its retail store in Anaheim, California, it sells vertical cultivation systems and hydroponic supplies, with customers that include restaurants, community gardens, and small and large commercial clients.	18.11M
Solis Tek, Inc.	Solis Tek, Inc. imports, distributes and markets digital lighting equipment for the hydroponics industry. Its product line includes digital ballasts, lighting products, specialty metal halide digital lamps, reflectors, and a wide range of other lighting technologies specially designed for hydroponic horticulture. And while it doesn’t solely serve the marijuana industry, many of its products are used for cannabis growth.	52M
Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc.	This company focuses on the acquisition, ownership, and management of specialized industrial properties leased to state-licensed operators for their medical-use cannabis facilities. It leases properties on a triple-net lease basis where the tenant is responsible for all aspects of and costs related to the property, including maintenance, taxes, and insurance. The company conducts business in an umbrella partnership real estate investment trust.	175.79M
GrowGeneration Corp.	GrowGeneration operates retail hydroponic and organic specialty gardening retail outlets. Additionally, the company is engaged in the development of a branded e-commerce portal, www.GrowGeneration.com. Its stores in Colorado and California offer supplies to the hydroponic industry, including farming soil, hydroponic equipment, lighting, plant nutrients, and other products used by specialty cultivation operations. Its target market includes small farms, home garden growers, farmers markets, restaurant growers, and growers in the cannabis market, including dispensaries, cultivators, and caregivers.	83.67M

Descriptions source: Reuters.com

The post Guide to California’s Cannabis Stocks appeared first on CannabisFN.

We’re used to the awards ceremonies we see on television and read about in the news. We’re treated to the Emmy Awards for television, the Oscar Awards for film, and the Grammy Awards for music. But did you know that there is also an annual awards ceremony for individuals and companies in the global cannabis space?

Enter the Cannabis Business Awards and its red carpet Industry Appreciation Holiday Gala. The CBAs are put on every year by Clover Leaf Consulting, an organization founded by businesswoman Chloe Villano in 2010. A former paralegal, Villano has worked for years in the cannabis industry as one of the top business consultants in Colorado. Villano claims to have “consulted for, started, sold, and performed due-diligence for valuation on more successful cannabis business than any other.” Villano’s been part of many initiatives across the United States to help normalize the industry, and she started the Cannabis Business Awards in 2012 in part so that she could give recognition to business and individuals that helped pass Amendment 64 in Colorado.

And it appears the Awards have been a resounding success. Villano claims People, Fox Business, The New York Times, ABC, CNN, MSNBC, and NBC as some of the media outlets that have highlighted her organization.

The Honorary Ceremony presented by Villano will bring together some of the global cannabis industry’s biggest heavy hitters and promises to celebrate achievements with “industry game changers, trailblazers and cannabis thought leaders.” Past award winners include Jack Splitt for Most Influential Individual, Matthew Aiken of Sweet Leaf for top Cannabis Executive, as well as Women Grow for the Industry Organization of the Year.

So why not make check out the Cannabis Business Awards when they are presented later this year? As its website says, “Join us as we celebrate the fastest growing industry in America and the industry executives creating history as we take marijuana mainstream.” If you can’t visit the awards ceremony in Denver, Colorado this year, there are other ways you can stay connected. The Awards operate two Twitter accounts (@cannabis_awards and @cannabisawards), and an Instagram account (@cannabisawards), a Facebook account (http://facebook.com/CannabisBusinessAwards). Want to join in on the fun? The Cannabis Business Awards says that you can join the dialogue from your computer or mobile device using hashtags #CannabisBusinessAwards, #CannaAwards, #CannaAwards, and #CannaBizAwards.

To say that the award categories are extensive and comprehensive is an understatement. The ceremony will honor individuals from the Most Influential Individual to the Cannabis Executive Of Year. Other individual awards include Activist of the Year, Advocate of the year, Political Industry Representative of the Year, Manager of the Year, Budtender of the year, and Cannabis Woman of the Year. The awards don’t skimp out on recognizing some of the wonderful products that this industry has made come to life, with awards being handed out for the Best Invention, Best Flower, Best Extract, Best Edible, as well as the best Infused and Hemp Products. Lastly, organizations are also going to be honored by the awards ceremony. These awards include Non-Profit of the Year, Cannabis Business of the Year, Best Medical Center, Best Retail Center, Publication of the Year Award (limited to non-online outlets), Most Influential Media Source. There are also some very special awards that will be granted during the event, such as the Lifetime Achievement Awards and 5 MVP Awards.

There is a cost to attend the awards ceremony: general admission costs $150 at the door, but if you have the foresight to order them in advance, you can save money by paying a ticket price of $99 (all figures in USD). You can arrange admission and a table for four guests for $600, and you can even pay extra to obtain an 8 or 12-person Top VIP Table.

This isn’t the first time the Business Awards have been held. In fact, the awards have been held every year since 2012. You can even take a look at photo galleries for every year since 2012 by visiting CannabisBusiessInfo.com. The Awards Ceremony also has a dedicated website that can be found at CannabisBusinessAwards.com.

The Cannabis Business Awards are not the only cannabis awards ceremonies; there are also the Canadian Cannabis Awards put on by Lift Canada, an organization that hopes to be the thought leader in the Canadian cannabis space. But if you are looking for a cannabis awards ceremony with a focus on recognizing businesses and individuals across North America, including from both Canada and United States, it might be worth it to check out this year’s Cannabis Business Awards by Clover Leaf Consulting, which will be held in December, 2018 at a venue in Denver, Colorado. Can’t make it to this year’s CBA’s in Colorado? Then you may want to check out the California version of the Cannabis Business Awards. That event will be held Saturday September 29, 2018 at 7PM. The venue is still to be announced, but you can check this link at a later date in order to obtain further details.

The post What Are the Cannabis Business Awards? appeared first on CannabisFN.

Finding a doctor to recommend high THC medical marijuana in Florida is not always an easy undertaking. Due to marijuana’s designation as a Schedule I narcotic by the Federal Government, many doctors shy away from providing this much needed service. Patients themselves, who are often suffering from diseases affecting their mobility, have difficulty finding doctors to help. Despite it being legal, social stigma may keep some patients from asking their doctor about medical marijuana. These situations, and others, all act as barriers to patients who are just wanting to find relief. Due to these barriers, patients sometimes give up trying to find a recommendation. There are some best practices that can help patients find the relief they need through Florida’s new medical marijuana system.

Do You Qualify?

Before looking for a medical marijuana recommendation in Florida, first determine if you are eligible. Cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV, AIDS, Crohn’s disease, PTSD, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, multiple sclerosis, or other debilitating conditions such as anorexia or Hepatitis C will qualify a person for medical marijuana in Florida. Doctors can recommend medical marijuana for pain only if the pain is related to one of the conditions above. If you’re not sure if you qualify for medical cannabis, ask your general practitioner. Like the saying goes, “You don’t know until you ask.” Your regular doctor may write you a medical marijuana recommendation on the spot. Additionally, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting a new medication like marijuana.

Look Online

Unfortunately, due to a wide variety of circumstances, the least of which is marijuana is illegal at the Federal level, it is likely that your general practitioner will not write you a medical marijuana recommendation. Don’t be thwarted! Your effort and hard work will pay off when you get your medical marijuana card. The next place to look is online, but as most things on the internet, it is important to use reputable sites like Medical Marijuana Doctors.com to find a doctor in your city to write a recommendation. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find recommendations in 2018. Social media offers unique opportunities to reach out and ask for help when deciding which doctor to choose. These social media sites often have reviews that can help when making such an important decision. However, message boards and forums are not places to look for medical marijuana doctors, and be sure to read reviews when they are available.

The Appointment

Once you locate a doctor near you, the next step is to give them a call to set up an appointment. For the first appointment, you will need to take documentation about your debilitating condition, a Florida ID to prove you are a resident and patients under 18 will need a parent or guardian to accompany them. If you don’t have documentation for your qualifying condition, you can sign a release and your medical marijuana doctor will request the appropriate documents. At the appointment, the doctor will ask how your condition affects your quality of life. If the doctor sees your condition is severe enough to interfere with daily life activities, then you qualify for high THC medical marijuana in Florida. Finally, you will need to register with the state. The medical marijuana doctor’s office can assist with registration. Once registered, you can purchase medical cannabis using your ID throughout the state.

Low THC/High CBD    

Florida also has a low THC high CBD program for children with seizure disorders. Like the high THC system, the best place to start when deciding to treat a child with medical marijuana is a general practitioner. Unlike the high THC system, Florida has a list of doctors who have been certified in Florida to recommend the low THC medical marijuana option. The list is updated weekly, and has over one thousand names.

Note: No part of this article should be interpreted as medical advice.

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You may have heard the term, “variety is the spice of life!” It’s an adage that we hold dearly when it comes to choosing the people we hang out with, choosing the fruits and vegetables we eat, and choosing the kinds of activities we do on a daily basis.

Variety is also a strategy that may form an important part of an investment strategy. In investing, this is called “diversification,” and it is a practice that many investors around the world undertake in order to make more prudent, risk-averse investment decisions.

What is Diversification?

Diversification is like playing a lot of different numbers in roulette rather than just a single number. Rather than investing all of your capital in a single stock, you invest in a variety of stocks, bonds, or even funds.

In addition to picking a variety of security types (such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds), diversification also usually entails picking investments from a wide range of industries, and diversifying your investment portfolio may be the smart way to go for beginning investors. Here’s why: Stocks within a specific sector often ebb and flow together, which means that if there is a downturn in a industry, and you only hold stocks from that one industry, you could be in for a rude awakening when you check your portfolio. By diversifying you are reducing the chance that all of your stocks will drop together, and you improve the odds of having a portfolio that balances losses with gain – and at the end of the day we hope the gains made in some of our stocks outweigh the losses that may be materialize in the stock picks in other industries.

Diversification in Cannabis

You’re probably asking: But how does this apply to me if I just want to concentrate my investment in the marijuana industry? Well, to start, publicly-listed marijuana companies touch all aspects of the plant across the entire life-cycle of the marijuana plant: from seed, to sale, to consumption. There are even companies that do not touch the plant at all but merely provide services or goods to other companies that DO touch the plant. We call these companies “ancillary businesses,” and many may turn out to offer extremely valuable goods and services to the companies that do indeed produce the plant for sale to a general audience.

The Marijuana Index, a website that tracks the movement of publicly-listed stocks, has a page on their website that offers a great way to visualize and really drill down into the kind of diversification present in the cannabis industry. According to their website, there are actually three main segments. As mentioned before, companies that touch the plant are the first segment. According to The Marijuana Index, this includes biotechnology companies, those involved in the cultivation and retail of cannabis, and those that produce hemp and CBD-derived products. Ancillary business, according to the TMI, including consumption devices, investing and finance services, as well as tech and media companies. But there’s also a third segment that is somewhere in between, that TMI likes to call “Direct support.” These companies include ones that provide the real estate on which cannabis is grown.

Another way to diversify is by spreading investment around stocks that have a different range of market capitalization figures. Companies with smaller market caps may be riskier than others, but they have the opportunity to grow into larger-cap stocks – if you play your cards right. On the other hand, companies with larger market caps will tend to be less risky, but may not provide as much of an upside as stocks with smaller market caps. What’s the best way to diversify between companies of various market caps? It’s not hard to search for the market caps of publicly-traded companies online, and by identifying companies with a variety of market caps, you can spread out your risk across companies. HowStuffWorks suggests to create what’s called a “style chart,” a table that allows you to plot out companies of different market caps.

Should You Diversify?

While we’re talking about all the pros about diversification, it’s important to note that not all investment advisors and gurus believe diversification to be a proper risk-aversion strategy. If the cannabis sector is experiencing a boom that carries across the entire industry, you may lose out on potential gains if, say, only half of your portfolio consists of cannabis stocks. That may be one of the reasons why Warren Buffett, the famous investor from Berkshire Hathaway, shies away from diversification. As Buffett has been quoted as saying, “Diversification is protection against ignorance. It makes little sense if you know what you are doing.” Instead of diversification, Buffett practices portfolio concentration, the practice of concentrating investment into one or similar industries/verticals.

Do you think diversification is right for you? As always, speak to an investment advisor before making investment decisions. They can help you create a diversified portfolio that might just make you feel a little safer.

The post How to Build a Diversified Cannabis Portfolio appeared first on CannabisFN.

Harvesting cannabis at the right time means that the crop will have the most potent cannabinoids it can for its strain, so it is essential to nail harvesting time accurately. Growing cannabis can take two or more months, so losing potency by harvesting early or too late can set you or your business back by nearly an entire fiscal quarter in the worst cases of botched harvest jobs. Luckily, identifying changes in your cannabis plants can give you clear insight as to when your harvest will be optimal.

Stages of a Cannabis Harvest

First, let’s recap on the stages of growing cannabis that precede harvest time, just to establish a timeline that will dispel confusion as to when to start preparing for harvest.

Week 1: Germination and sprouts.

Week 2: First nodes.

Week 3: First week switched to 12/12 light, or beginning of autumn for outdoor.

Week 4: First signs of plant gender expected: safely discard males without releasing pollen.

Week 5: Plants will be taking in a lot of water during the “stretch”, (period of time in flowering where they roughly double in height).

Week 6: Buds are getting denser, preparatory yo-yo ties can be used to support top-heavy stalks.

Week 7: Buds are getting fatter yet, and pistils should be darkening. Look for early signs of bud maturity.

Week 8: This is when to check daily for timing on harvest, on average. Each strain is different and some will take upwards of three months to achieve the ideal circumstances for harvest. Knowing what strains you’re growing is quintessential to providing them the perfect environment and timing, so be prepared to start checking late in week 7 and also be prepared for your bud not to be “ripe” yet by the end of week 8 depending on the strain.

What to Look for at Harvest Time

Now that it is time to harvest, there is an easy way to tell when the perfect time to chop your plants. It does require the use of a jeweler’s loupe, (magnifying glass) with at least a 60x magnification. Once your plant has yielded dense, frosty buds, the best way to know when to harvest is by inspecting the trichromes up close with your jeweler’s loupe. Trichromes are actually the what make up the “frostiness” of buds and cannabis plants, and they are where most of the THC that gets you high is found. As the cannabis plant matures, trichromes go from a clear color to a milky white color, and then finally an amber color. Depending on the color of your trichromes, you will get different effects from the bud you harvest.

Clear/ Too Early

Clear trichromes are an indicator that your plant is not mature yet. Do not even consider chopping your crop down if you find any translucent or clear-looking trichromes when inspecting your plant with your loupe. If you do, the THC levels of your buds will be so low that the crop will be wasted and unusable. Patience is a virtue and even if buds look big or “finished”, having clear trichromes means that there is much more in store for the quality if you wait.

Mostly Milky White / Head High

When looking at your buds with your loupe, if you notice that the trichromes have turned 90% milky-white in color, it means that your plant is extremely close to optimal harvest time. In fact, the crop could be harvested at this point and the product would yield more of a cranial, lucid, head-high feeling. Each strain is different, but slightly early harvests usually lose their body high / couch-lock effects to a degree. Though seeing mostly milky white trichromes means the product will get you high, it still is not the right time to harvest, optimally.

70% Milky White / 30% Amber (OPTIMAL)

At the point when all of the trichromes are milky-white, their next step in “ripening” is turning a dark amber color. These amber trichromes start popping up like grey hairs in old age: you’ll see a few at first, then more and more. At the point when you see amber trichromes in about 1/3^rd of any sample that you inspect with your loupe, you are ready for optimal harvest. This is because harvesting at this point will yield the best blend of head high effects and body high effects of the strain. While it may be tempting to wait longer for a more intense body high, unfortunately the plant does not develop that way.

50% Amber + / Late

If you wait too long before harvesting, you’ll notice that the amber trichromes can take over quite quickly. If they wind up turning amber quicker than you anticipated or if you missed timing, you’ll find that the cannabinoid strength will be less potent than if harvested at the optimal time. It will still get you high and be workable product, but it may not pass medicinal standards or be as effective as over-the-counter bought cannabis.

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