Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL ) (OTCQX: TCNNF ) ("Trulieve" or "the Company"), a leading and top-performing cannabis company in the U.S., today announced that it has completed the redemption of all US$130,000,000 (Cdn$175,669,000) principal amount of its outstanding 9.75% senior secured notes due 2024 (CUSIP: 89788CAB0 ISIN: CA89788CAB06) (the "Notes"). Cash used for the redemption was approximately US$136 million ( Cdn$184 million ), which included the aggregate principal amount of the Notes being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date of December 1, 2023 . The Notes will cease to trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol "TRUL.DB.U" as of the close of trading on December 1, 2023 and will be delisted as of December 1, 2023 . Additional information regarding the redemption of the Notes is available from Odyssey Trust Co.
Investing News NetworkYour trusted source for investing success
- Lithium Outlook
- Oil and Gas Outlook
- Gold Outlook Report
- Uranium Outlook
- Rare Earths Outlook
- All Outlook Reports
- Top Generative AI Stocks
- Top EV Stocks
- Biggest AI Companies
- Biggest Blockchain Stocks
- Biggest Cryptocurrency-mining Stocks
- Biggest Cybersecurity Companies
- Biggest Robotics Companies
- Biggest Social Media Companies
- Biggest Technology ETFs
- Artificial Intellgience ETFs
- Robotics ETFs
- Canadian Cryptocurrency ETFs
- Artificial Intelligence Outlook
- EV Outlook
- Cleantech Outlook
- Crypto Outlook
- Tech Outlook
- All Market Outlook Reports
- Cannabis Weekly Round-Up
- Top Alzheimer's Treatment Stocks
- Top Biotech Stocks
- Top Plant-based Food Stocks
- Biggest Cannabis Stocks
- Biggest Pharma Stocks
- Longevity Stocks to Watch
- Psychedelics Stocks to Watch
- Top Cobalt Stocks
- Small Biotech ETFs to Watch
- Top Life Science ETFs
- Biggest Pharmaceutical ETFs
- Life Science Outlook
- Biotech Outlook
- Cannabis Outlook
- Pharma Outlook
- Psychedelics Outlook
- All Market Outlook Reports

Psilocybin And MDMA Down- Scheduled
LGP’s psychedelics subsidiary Reset Mind Sciences welcomes the TGA’s decision to down-schedule psilocybin and MDMA
Little Green Pharma (ASX: LGP) and its psychedelics focused subsidiary Reset Mind Sciences Limited (“Reset Mind Sciences”) welcome Friday’s decision by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (“TGA”) to change the classification of psilocybin and MDMA to allow prescribing by authorised psychiatrists.
A copy of the media release is available here: https://www.tga.gov.au/news/media-releases/change- classification-psilocybin-and-mdma-enable-prescribing-authorised-psychiatrists
The announcement means Australia will become the first market in the world to recognise psychedelics as medicines and paves the way for the use of psilocybin for the treatment of treatment resistant depression and MDMA for PTSD outside of a clinical trial environment from 1 July 2023.
The TGA’s decision to re-classify psilocybin and MDMA has come significantly earlier than expected by industry, given the TGA’s decision in late December 2021 not to reclassify and limit use to clinical trials only. However, the unexpected change uniquely positions Reset compared to other psychedelic companies in Australia given both its Schedule 9 licence, authorizing it to cultivate and supply psilocybin, and its impending clinical trial, enabling Reset to validate its treatment protocols for the use of psilocybin in connection with treatment resistant depression. These developments now allow Reset to accelerate and implement its commercialisation plans far earlier than expected.
Reset Mind Sciences CEO Mr. Shaun Duffy said, “The announcement by the TGA is truly ground- breaking in the field of psychedelics and I welcome their decision. There is a significant body of research emerging in Australia and globally for the use of psychedelics to treat mental health conditions and this decision allows the use of these drugs for the mental health conditions that have demonstrated the most potential in the research.”
Reset Mind Sciences is in the advanced stages of preparations for a Perth based clinical trial using psilocybin for treatment resistant depression, the condition the TGA has identified as permissible for treatment under its prescribed parameters.
Mr. Duffy said, ”We have put more than 18 months of detailed planning into our trial with a focus on testing, refining and developing the therapy protocols that go along with the administration of psilocybin. This is a specialised field of expertise in itself that should not be underestimated and our trial provides an environment to optimise our protocols. We have assembled an outstanding team of therapists that are trained and ready to go once we finalise the ethics approval process. Given the comments from the Ethics Committee to date we hope and expect that’s not far away.”
The trial’s Principal Investigator is the University of Western Australia’s Professor Sean Hood who will have oversight of responsible governance and treatment delivery.
“Itisincumbenton the industry to proceed in a professional and responsible manner with this treatment and ensure those administering it have the necessary skills” added Mr Duffy.
In addition, Reset Mind Sciences is in the final stages of commissioning construction of a bespoke mushroom cultivation facility which is expected to be on site at LGP’s existing cannabis cultivation facility in the coming weeks. Reset is one of a very limited number of Australian companies legally permitted to cultivate psilocybin containing mushrooms. Reset’s objective is to be able to produce GMP grade psilocybin from its mushrooms as soon as possible.
Mr. Duffy added, “Reset is fortunate that its clinical trial indication focus on treatment resistant depression matches the TGA’s psilocybin policy, as well as deciding to obtain a Schedule 9 supply and manufacturing licence in 2019 to enable progress of its inhouse psilocybin production capability. We believe the advanced stage of Reset’s treatment ecosystem puts the company in a strong leadership position for this significant therapeutic development.
“We’re still working through the full implications of the TGA’s decision for our strategy moving forward but suffice to say it’s a very positive development for us and will result in an acceleration of our plans.”
Little Green Pharma has previously announced its intention to demerge Reset by way of an in- specie distribution of its current ownership out to its shareholder base. If approved by LGP shareholders, the effect would be that eligible LGP shareholders on a certain record date (to be determined) would receive a separate direct shareholding in Reset Mind Sciences and the opportunity to invest additional funds into it.
“Given this regulatory development and that Reset is on the precipiceof becoming operational on both the clinical trial and cultivation fronts, we believe the time is right to move ahead with the demerger of Reset Mind Sciences from Little Green Pharma into a standalone dedicated psychedelics company.”
Click here for the full ASX Release
This article includes content from Little Green Pharma, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
Corporate Update
Melodiol Global Health Limited (ASX:ME1) (‘Melodiol’ or ‘the Company’) is pleased to provide the following corporate updates.
La Plata Facility
Further to ME1’s announcement on 4 September 2023, the Company provides the following update with respect to La Plata Capital, LLC’s (“La Plata”) secured note holding in the Company. Per the terms of the previous extension, ME1 was granted the option, subject to shareholder approval, to satisfy the October and November monthly interest payments to La Plata by the issue of fully paid ordinary shares (‘Shares’) at an issue price equal to the Company's closing Share price on the trading day immediately prior to issuance, based on a value ratio of 1.5 times the interest due. At the time, the Company also agreed to issue US$80,000 of shares using the same mechanism in order to begin paying down principal, starting in November 2023. In exchange for these concessions, the Company agreed to make a one time cash payment of US$160,000 to La Plata on or around 30 September 2023. Due to the large volume of corporate activity that has been undertaken by the Company, it was unable to achieve shareholder approval for these obligations prior to the commencement of the payment schedule. The Company has also not paid the modification fee to La Plata. In order to address this breach, the Company will has agreed to achieve shareholder approval by January 15, 2023, and adjust the value ratio from 1.5 times to 2.0 times for the October and November interest payments and November principal payments. The parties have also agreed that the Company may satisfy the US$160,000 modification fee and US$18,700 of legal fees by the issue of fully paid ordinary shares (‘Shares’) at an issue price equal to the Company's closing Share price on the trading day immediately prior to issuance, based on a value ratio of 2.0 times the interest due. The Company has also agreed to reduce the floor price from A$0.002 per Share to A$0.001 per Share.
Secured Notes
Further to the Company’s announcement dated 26 October 2023, the Company notes that the maturity date of the Secured Notes is 30 November 2023. The Company is engaged with the noteholders, with the objective of working towards a further extension, and will provide an update in due course.
Termination of Panacea Life Sciences Transaction and Rationalisation of Non-Core Business Units
Further to the Company’s announcements dated 2 August 2023 and 26 October 2023, the Company notes that on 4 December 2023, it terminated discussions with Panacea Life Sciences. The Company notes that several business units (Mernova Medicinal Inc., HealthHouse International, and Creso Pharma Switzerland) have demonstrated the ability to deliver cash flow positive results during FY23. With these encouraging results, the Company has taken active steps to refocus its efforts and resources into these higher performing business units, which in aggregate, represent 93% of group revenue (based on Q3 FY23). As part of that refocusing effort, the Company has temporarily paused operations at Halucenex Life Sciences, Sierra Sage Herbs, LLC, and impACTIVE Ltd. The Company has taken this decision in order to accelerate its ability to deliver group cash flow positive results and to concurrently pursue a sale of each of these non- core business units. Whilst it does so, it is likely that further capital will be required in the near term with the Company considering additional sources of capital, including but not limited to, further capital raising activities, divestment of non-core assets and possible divestment of core assets.
Click here for the full ASX Release
This article includes content from Melodiol Global Health, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
Tinley's Files Interim Results and Announces Investor Call
The Tinley Beverage Company Inc. (CSE: TNY) (OTCQB: TNYBF) ("Tinley's" or the "Company") announces the filing of its interim consolidated financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2023, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company also announces that an investor call has been scheduled to update Tinley's shareholders and the marketplace on various initiatives currently being undertaken that are intended to create substantial value for its shareholders. To fund these near-term value creating opportunities, the Company will need to complete a financing.
Management will be hosting an investor call to update shareholders on the near-term value creating opportunities and the financing needs of the Company required to exploit these opportunities. The investor call will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at 1:00PM (EST).
The dial in details are as follows:
- Guest Dial in Numbers:
- Local - Toronto, ON: (+1) 416-764-8658
- Toll Free - North America: (+1) 888-886-7786
- Guest Web Access: http://momentum.adobeconnect.com/tinleybeverageinvestorcall/
Teddy Zittell, the Company's CEO stated, "Now that we have exited the Long Beach manufacturing facility and are in the final stages of installing Tinley's bottling-line in Blaze Life Holdings' manufacturing facility in Canoga Park CA, we are fully focused on a number of high yielding revenue opportunities that have recently become increased in scope. If Tinley's is able to raise the capital needed to exploit these lucrative near-term opportunities, the next 12 months could be very exciting for Tinley's shareholders."
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements and information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements and information that are not historical facts but instead include financial projections and estimates, statements regarding plans, goals, objectives and intentions, statements regarding the Company's expectations with respect to its future business and operations, management's expectations regarding growth and phrases containing words such as "ongoing", "estimates", "expects", "anticipates", or the negative thereof or any other variations thereon or comparable terminology referring to future events or results, or that events or conditions "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved, or comparable terminology referring to future events or results. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement include, but are not limited to, the timing of BLH's receipt of certain licenses and approvals necessary to operate at the BLH Facility, the timing of the BLH Facility becoming fully operational, potential delays or unanticipated problems related to the relocation of Tinley's bottling assets to the BLH Facility, risks associated with Tinley's existing bottling customers continuing production at the BLH Facility and Tinley's existing can customers agreeing to move their production to the BLH Facility, Tinley's being sufficiently capitalized to meet its financial obligations related to the move to BLH Facility, potential delays in obtaining, or failures to obtain, necessary governmental approvals required to operate the BLH Facility, risks underlying management's expectations relating to the proposed benefits of relocating to the BLH Facility, political risks, uncertainties relating to the availability, and costs, of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in input costs, changes in consumer tastes and preferences, and the ability of BLH and the Company to achieve certain expected synergies as a result of the entering into of their management services agreement Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no responsibility to update them or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances other than as required by law. Products, formulations, and timelines outlined herein are subject to change at any time.
For further information, please contact:
The Tinley Beverage Company Inc.
Teddy Zittell
(310) 507-9146
relations@drinktinley.com (CSE: TNY) (OTCQB: TNYBF)
Twitter: @drinktinleys and @drinkbecketts
Instagram: @drinktinleys and @drinkbecketts
www.drinktinley.com
Trulieve Announces Completion of Redemption of All US$130 Million 9.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2024
News Provided by Canada Newswire via QuoteMedia
Cannabis Stocks: 10 Biggest Companies
The cannabis industry faced similar obstacles in 2023 as it did in 2022, with a lack of reform both in the United States and Canada proving to be a significant roadblock to growth in the market.
With the year almost behind us, here the Investing News Network recounts the performance of some of the largest cannabis stocks out there.
This list was put together based on the top-weighted pure cannabis stocks included in the AdvisorShares Pure US Cannabis ETF (ARCA:MSOS) and the Horizons Marijuana Life Sciences Index ETF (TSX:HMMJ) as of November 30, 2023. Share information for companies is accurate as of November 30.
US operators
Cannabis remains illegal at the federal level in the US, but state market openings have allowed some US-based operators to thrive. Typically these firms set up vertically integrated businesses with a focus on branded products, retail networks and licenses.
While these companies have adapted to regulatory challenges, they have much to gain from country-level reform in the US, and are eager to see more welcoming federal laws that will allow their businesses to develop further.
US-focused cannabis fund
The AdvisorShares Pure US Cannabis ETF (NYSEARCA:MSOS) provides investors with exposure to companies exclusively operating within the US cannabis industry.
By investing in companies that are working in states with clear guidelines, MSOS gives investors a way to be more selective about the types of cannabis companies they're investing in, rather than just investing in the industry as a whole.
MSOS has decreased in value by 0.73 percent in 2023, resulting in a price point of US$6.82 as of November 30.
1. Green Thumb Industries (CSE:GTII,OTCQX:GTBIF)
ETF weight: 25.94 percent; market cap: US$2.48 billion; current share price: US$10.48
Green Thumb Industries makes up 25.94 percent of the MSOS ETF. It is a multi-state operator (MSO) with headquarters in Chicago, Illinois. Green Thumb Industries produces and sells cannabis products for recreational and medical use out of 87 stores across 15 states.
The third quarter of 2023 was a significant period for the company, which reported revenue of US$275 million and GAAP income of US$11 million. These figures represent a 9 percent increase in revenue over the previous quarter. The company has attributed such explosive growth to the start of adult-use sales at Green Thumb’s four cannabis shops in Maryland following legalization on July 1.
2. Curaleaf Holdings (CSE:CURA,OTCQX:CURLF)
ETF weight: 19.33 percent; market cap: US$2.66 billion; current share price: US$3.77
Curaleaf Holdings has a significant presence in the US cannabis market, with 146 dispensaries and 21 cultivation centers in 18 states, making them a major player in the industry. The company is also continuing its expansion into the European cannabis market with the anticipated increase in demand for medical cannabis products, especially in Germany and the UK, where the company already has a significant presence. The company applied to be uplisted to the TSX on October 10 and is awaiting approval.
Curaleaf is one of the many companies in the US that are optimizing their operations to cope with the challenges of the industry. Q3 saw Curaleaf complete the final steps of the company’s asset optimization plan, which included reducing inventory and adding new product offerings. The company’s Q3 2023 results reported revenue of US$333 million, representing a year-over-year increase of two percent, and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 23 percent. In a statement released alongside the results, Executive Chairman Boris Jordan said he was “pleased that (Curaleaf’s) changes are showing results.”
3. Verano Holdings (NEO:VRNO,OTCQX:VRNOF)
ETF weight: 14.64 percent; market cap US$1.02 billion; current share price: US$5.50
Verano Holdings is a vertically integrated, premiere cannabis company. It delivers high-quality products out of its 136 chic Zen Leaf and MÜV retail locations, spread across 13 states. The company reported a revenue of US$240 million during its Q3 results conference call on November 8, representing year-over-year growth of five percent.
Unlike other US operators listed on a Canadian exchange, Verano recently moved its listing to the Cboe from the CSE, opting not to apply for a TSX listing. The move is expected to increase the company's visibility and accessibility to investors, while at the same time leaving it in a better position to transition to a US exchange if cannabis is legalized there, according to the company’s CEO George Archos.
4. Trulieve Cannabis (CSE:TRUL,OTCQX:TCNNF)
ETF weight: 11.9 percent; market cap: US$1.02 billion; current share price: US$5.50
Truelieve Cannabis is a vertically integrated medical marijuana company with a dominant market share in its home state of Florida.
Trulieve Cannabis recently announced that it would be redeeming its 9.75 percent senior secured notes, worth US$130 million, on December 1, six months ahead of the original due date in June 2024. This comes on the heels of a strong third quarter for the company, with retail sales accounting for 96 percent of its total revenue of US$275 million.
5. TerrAscend (CSE:TER,OTCQX:TRSSF)
ETF weight: 6.89 percent; market cap: US$558.69 million; current share price: US$1.67
TerrAscend is a vertically integrated MSO with operations in the US as well as Canada. Its diversified ownership structure is a good representation of the growing interest in the cannabis industry from various sources.
TerrAscend has 37 dispensaries in five states, including six medical dispensaries in Pennsylvania and four in Maryland, where adult-use recreational cannabis became legal this year. TerrAscend also has a strong presence in New Jersey, with retail stores and a state-of-the-art cultivation and production facility. The Garden State is the company’s most profitable market, and the company’s Q3 2023 report revealed that TerrAscend had climbed to second place in market share in the state at 18.6 percent — less than 1 percent from the top spot.
TerrAscend’s Q3 net revenue was up 34.7 percent year-over-year, jumping from US$66.2 million to a record US$89.2 million.
Canadian growers
In 2018, Canada became the first G7 nation to legalize adult-use cannabis and create its own streamlined program regulated by both federal and provincial powers. Since then, companies working in the country have faced ups and downs in dealing with tight marketing rules, high tax rates and ongoing competition with the unregulated market.
Canada-based cannabis fund
The Horizons Marijuana Life Sciences Index ETF (TSX:HMMJ) was the first cannabis ETF available in Canada, and it holds a variety of companies involved in cannabis in some way along with several non-flower companies. For this list, instead of solely considering ETF weight, we will only be including companies that have notable involvement with the cannabis industry.
While the HMMJ does not invest in US-based multi-state operators, it does have exposure to the US market through Canadian companies that have interests in the US cannabis industry.
Overall, HMMJ is designed to give investors broad exposure to the cannabis industry, with a particular focus on North American companies.
This ETF hasn’t had the best year, with a year-to-date loss of 27.16 percent as of November 30 and a price point of US$8.61. ETF performance data was gathered on November 28.
1. Innovative Industrial Properties (NYSE:IIPR)
ETF weight:15.72 percent; market cap: US$2.24 billion; current share price: US$25.82
Innovative Industrial Properties (NYSE:IIPR) is a real estate investment trust that provides specialized real estate opportunities for cannabis companies in 19 states. Its properties mostly consist of processing plants, greenhouses and warehouses, with retail spaces making up a small percentage of its portfolio.
IIP has provided long-term absolute net lease agreements to some of the cannabis industry’s biggest names like Green Thumb Industries, Tilt Holdings (NEO:TILT,OTCQB:TLLTF), Ascend Wellness (CSE:AAWH.U,OTCQX:AAWH) and Curaleaf. The company’s attractive sale-leaseback program has helped cannabis companies access a source of capital, a much-needed workaround in the US where there are fewer traditional financing options.
2. Cronos Group (NASDAQ:CRON,TSX:CRON)
ETF weight: 14.73 percent; market cap: US$744.1 million; current share price: US$1.95
Cronos Group is the Canada-based company behind the Spinach, Peace Naturals and Lord Jones cannabis brands. The company recently re-entered the German medical cannabis market through its partnership with a German medical cannabis company called Cansativa Group and is positioned to take advantage of potential adult-use legalization in the country. Cronos also serves the Israeli market through its subsidiary Cronos Israel.
The company’s Q3 results revealed a 22 percent year-over-year net revenue increase, marking one of the “best quarters in Cronos history,” according to Mike Gorenstein, the chairman, president and CEO of the company. Gorenstein also mentioned in the press release that his company had recently agreed to start sending cannabis products to Vitura Health for sale in Australia, further expanding its global reach.
3. Tilray Brands (NASDAQ:TLRY,TSX:TLRY)
ETF weight: 11.22 percent; market cap: US$1.29 billion; share price: US$1.77
Tilray Brands has a presence in over 20 countries worldwide with a wide range of cannabis products including edibles, flower and oils. The company solidified its position as one of the largest players in the global cannabis market after it merged with medical cannabis brand Aphria in 2020. This past June, Tilray announced it had completed an accretive acquisition of HEXO, a cannabis company out of Gatineau, Québec — a move that contributed to a 6 percent year-over-year increase in total revenue on a constant-currency basis.
The bulk of Tilray’s sales lies in the Canadian and international medical cannabis export markets. The company has a relatively small presence in the US and is limited to selling products infused only with CBD.
4. SNDL (NASDAQ:SNDL)
ETF weight: 5.46 percent; market cap: US$366.97 million; current share price: US$1.41
SNDL, formerly known as Sundial Growers, is the largest private-sector liquor and cannabis retailer on the Canadian market. The company has made the headlines quite frequently throughout 2023, notably in October when it chose to close its Olds, Alberta, cannabis facility. Its stock price has fallen more than 40 percent in 2023, but the steps the company has taken to reduce its debt and the introduction of new products to the SNDL lineup have resulted in a positive free cash flow of US$16.5 million in Q3, a 147.5 percent increase from Q3 2022.
Net revenue for cannabis retail and operations has also increased year-over-year. Q3 results reported earnings of US$75.5 million from cannabis retail, an increase of 14.1 percent compared to 2022 and net revenue of US$21 million for cannabis operations, a 77.4 percent increase.
5. Canopy Growth (NASDAQ:CGC,TSX:WEED)
ETF weight: 3.88 percent; market cap: US$447.96 million; current share price: US$0.54
Canopy Growth is a company that’s grown alongside Canada’s cannabis industry. Founded in 2013, it has become one of the largest producers of cannabis in the world, fostering brand deals with celebrities like Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg.
The company released positive fiscal Q2 2024 results on November 9, indicating that the company was on track for another profitable year, despite the setbacks faced by many in the cannabis industry.
“Our financial results demonstrated marked improvement this quarter, including significant gross margin gains and reduced cash burn. This enhanced performance, together with a series of completed balance sheet strengthening actions, has solidified our foundation and set the stage for profitable growth ahead,” Chief Financial Officer Judy Hong said in a statement released with the financial report.
FAQs for investing in cannabis
Are cannabis stocks worth investing in?
Each investor will have to think and act for themselves to manage their own risk exposure, but it’s no secret that cannabis stocks have taken a beating for some time now. While financial experts point to the long-term upside of US operators as more state markets expand, the stock market has not been kind to these names lately.
Are cannabis stocks considered a high- or low-risk investment?
Cannabis investments are extremely young in the grand scheme of the investment universe. There is an exciting and refreshing element to these stocks, but the market has always been characterized by volatility and unpredictability.
While wild, spontaneous swings in the open market have become less common, cannabis stocks are often moved — both positively and negatively — by big pieces of market news or legalization updates.
Why do people buy cannabis stocks?
Investors may choose to get exposure to the cannabis market as a way to participate in the development of a new drug market with consumer packaged goods capabilities. Some participants are bullish on the industry's long-term outlook and expect more welcoming laws in the US and across the world to provide upward momentum.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Cannabis for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
Cronos Group Inc. enters into agreement for the sale-leaseback of its Stayner, Ontario facility
Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) ("Cronos" or the "Company") today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary entered into an agreement (the "Sale Agreement") with Future Farmco Canada Inc. (the "Buyer"), a vertical farming company, for the sale and leaseback of its property located at 4491 Concession 12 Sunnidale Road, Stayner, Ontario, Canada, L0M 1S0 (the "Peace Naturals Campus"). Pursuant to the terms of the Sale Agreement, the Buyer has agreed to acquire the Peace Naturals Campus for C$23 million cash, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein. The parties also plan to enter into a lease agreement upon closing for portions of the Peace Naturals Campus, ensuring continued operations.
"The sale-leaseback of the Peace Naturals Campus supports Cronos' goal to reduce costs across the Company," said Mike Gorenstein, Chairman, President and CEO, Cronos. "More specifically, this sale will aid in improving the gross margin profile of our business, while lowering costs and increasing our agility. This sale only strengthens our industry-leading balance sheet and allows us to continue to pursue organic growth and future transactions that bolster Cronos' existing value. We do not expect any interruption to our current operations and plan to carry out existing growth plans within our leased space at the facility."
Closing of the transaction is subject to certain conditions outlined in Cronos' Form 8-K . Within 180 days of the Sale Agreement date, the Buyer must confirm in writing that it is satisfied with various aspects of the property and has secured financing for the transaction. Cronos must receive approval from Health Canada for site perimeter changes by the later of: (i) 180 calendar days after the date of the Sale Agreement; or (ii) 75 calendar days after the satisfaction or waiver of the Buyer's condition described above. Additionally, both parties must agree on the terms of a lease within 75 days of the Sale Agreement date. The transaction is expected to close 30 calendar days after all conditions are satisfied or waived.
At closing, the parties expect to enter into a lease agreement for portions of the Peace Naturals Campus, which will include a five-year term and one five-year renewal option that may be exercised by Cronos. Cronos will also have an option to lease certain additional space during the term of the lease. Cronos can choose to terminate the lease without penalty anytime after the second year by giving written notice at least 12 months prior to termination. The leased premises will be identified and agreed between both parties prior to closing.
About Cronos
Cronos is an innovative global cannabinoid company committed to building disruptive intellectual property by advancing cannabis research, technology and product development. With a passion to responsibly elevate the consumer experience, Cronos is building an iconic brand portfolio. Cronos' diverse international brand portfolio includes Spinach®, PEACE NATURALS® and Lord Jones®. For more information about Cronos and its brands, please visit: thecronosgroup.com.
Forward-looking Statements
This press release may contain information that may constitute "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws and court decisions (collectively, "Forward-looking Statements"). All information contained herein that is not clearly historical in nature may constitute Forward-looking Statements. In some cases, Forward-looking Statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "potential", "estimate", "believe" or the negative of these terms, or other similar expressions intended to identify Forward-looking Statements. Some of the Forward-looking Statements contained in this press release include: the completion of the sale-leaseback of the Peace Naturals Campus and timing thereof; the Company's receipt of required licenses or approvals for license amendments; the parties' ability to agree on the portion of the Peace Naturals Campus to be leased by the Company and the terms of the lease; the duration in which the Company would lease a portion of the Peace Naturals Campus; the effect of the sale-leaseback transaction on the Company's costs and gross margin profile; the impact of the transaction on the Company's balance sheet and ability to pursue organic growth and future transactions that bolster existing value; and statements about Cronos' intention to build an international iconic brand portfolio and develop disruptive intellectual property. Forward-looking Statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, financial results, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by those Forward-looking Statements and the Forward-looking Statements are not guarantees of future performance. A discussion of some of the material risks applicable to the Company can be found in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2023, June 30, 2023, and September 30, 2023, each of which has been filed on SEDAR and EDGAR and can be accessed at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively. Any Forward-looking Statement included in this press release is made as of the date of this press release and, except as required by law, Cronos disclaims any obligation to update or revise any Forward-looking Statement. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on any Forward-looking Statement.
Investor Relations Contact
Shayne Laidlaw
investor.relations@thecronosgroup.com
Media Relations Contact
Emily Whalen
media.relations@thecronosgroup.com
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
Cannabis Weekly Round-Up: New York Aims to Ease Banking Barriers, Wisconsin Issues Pardons
Cannabis businesses in New York are set to receive easier access to banking services.
Meanwhile, Wisconsin's governor was in a giving mood this week — ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, he granted pardons to dozens of people with with cannabis-related convictions.
Read on to learn what else happened in the cannabis space this week.
New York governor breaks down cannabis banking barriers
On Thursday (November 23), New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D), with the support of Senator Jeremy Cooney (D) and Assembly Member Crystal Peoples-Stokes (D), signed legislation that will help cannabis entrepreneurs gain easier access to financial institutions. The move comes barely a week after Hochul signed into law a piece of legislation that will provide tax relief to struggling cannabis businesses that are unable to file federal tax deductions.
Senate Bill S1047A allows New York's Office of Cannabis Management to, with consent, provide banks with information on cannabis business licensees and applicants. The idea is to alleviate the obstacles faced by banks that want to do business with cannabis clients, but face the time-consuming and costly burden of complying with federal laws.
While important for New York-based cannabis operators, the new law will have no effect on federal banking reform. In September, the SAFER Banking Act, which would allow cannabis companies across the country to access services from financial institutions, made it to the floor of the Senate, but stalled there. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is now facing an uphill battle to persuade members of the GOP to support the bill; however, in an interview with Yahoo News last weekend, he said he plans to move forward with the bill “as soon as we have those 10 or 11 Republican votes."
Wisconsin governor grants cannabis pardons
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers (D) granted 82 pardons on Wednesday (November 22). This act of clemency brought his overall tally to 1,111 pardons. According to a press release on his website, approximately one-third of the pardons issued this week were to individuals who were convicted of cannabis possession, cultivation or sale.
“It continues to be a privilege to hear about individuals’ lives, work, and what they have done to overcome their past mistakes and build positive, rewarding lives for themselves and their families,” said Evers.
Teenagers not more likely to use cannabis post-legalization
A research paper conducted by a doctoral candidate and published in a special issue of Clinical Therapeutics suggests that high school students today are at no greater risk of smoking cannabis than they were before legalization.
Faith English, a PhD student at the School of Public Health Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, is the paper's lead author. She found that high schoolers are more likely to use cannabis if they perceive parents or friends using it, but that they were just as likely to use cannabis under similar circumstances prior to legalization in 2016.
English and senior author Jennifer Whitehill acknowledge that more research is needed to determine whether or not the legalization of cannabis does indeed influence use in adolescents and teenagers, but note that their research suggests influence by peers is a more likely cause of cannabis consumption in adolescents than legalization.
Importantly, the survey reveals a 6 percent increase in the proportion of youth who perceive their parents as cannabis users. The researchers also found a decrease in the percentage of youth who perceive that their best friend uses cannabis — it declined from 69 percent in 2016 to 64 percent in 2018.
Sarasota begins repeal of cannabis civil citation program
On Monday (November 20), the City Commission of Sarasota, Florida, began the process of repealing its cannabis civil citation program in line with police recommendations. The decision comes after a presentation revealed that almost 90 percent of the population does not comply by paying their fines.
In 2019, the City Commission passed an ordinance to decriminalize cannabis, mandating that instead of facing arrest, individuals caught with less than 20 grams of cannabis had the option to pay a US$100 fine or complete 100 hours of community service. The option was open to those over the age of 18 as long as they were not caught smoking the drug.
Sarasota Police Commissioner Debbie Trice told city news publication MySun Coast News that since the inception of the program in 2020, less than 12 percent of violators have complied with issued fines.
“Right now we have a law that is not working,” she said. In light of the low participation rate, the City Commission voted 4 to 1 in favor of drafting an ordinance to repeal the cannabis civil citation program.
Hawaii throws up legalization roadblock
Last week, Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez submitted a 294 page proposal for establishing a retail market for adult-use recreational cannabis in the state. The news came as a surprise to many, as Lopez has been opposed to legalizing recreational use for adults; however, the report indicates that her attitude toward legalization is evolving.
Hawaii News Now was the first to report the story, quoting Lopez's forward-thinking, but strict, stance on the issue: “The most important thing we can do is we can bring the people who have been growing and selling cannabis illegally into the legal market. If the dealers don’t go straight, they face a specialized 14-member law enforcement unit. It’s going to be a concerted investigative process to ensure that the law is followed."
The proposal has been well received by lawmakers, but many members of the law enforcement community are concerned that legalization will prove to be too great a risk. Leading a coalition against the proposal is Honolulu City Prosecutor Steve Alm. In an interview with Hawaii News Now, Alm said that there is “no impetus to changing the system," adding that he predicts opposition from health and education experts. He said that in his view, statistics on traffic deaths and emergency room visits in states where cannabis is legal are reason enough to oppose reform.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Cannabis for real-time news updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
Latest Press Releases
Related News
TOP STOCKS
Investing News Network websites or approved third-party tools use cookies. Please refer to the cookie policy for collected data, privacy and GDPR compliance. By continuing to browse the site, you agree to our use of cookies.