Fastcompany·2025-12-17 14:15Core Viewpoint - The Trump administration is considering reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug, which would reduce restrictions and potentially enhance research opportunities in the cannabis industry [1][2]. Group 1: Market Performance - Shares of cannabis companies have seen significant increases following the news of potential reclassification, with notable jumps in stock prices since the announcement [3]. - Specific companies such as Tilray Brands Inc., Cresco Labs Inc., Canopy Growth Corp., Curaleaf Holdings Inc., and Trulieve Cannabis Corp. are highlighted as experiencing substantial stock performance improvements [4]. - For example, one company reported a five-day growth of 123.11% and a closing increase of 34.93% on Tuesday [5]. Group 2: Regulatory Context - Currently, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug, indicating it has no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, alongside substances like heroin and LSD [7]. - In contrast, Schedule III drugs, which include substances like anabolic steroids and ketamine, are considered to have a moderate to low potential for dependence [8]. - Reclassifying marijuana would not change its federal legality but would position it as less dangerous than Schedule II drugs, which include substances like cocaine and fentanyl [8]. Group 3: Historical Context - Despite the recent stock performance, cannabis stocks remain significantly lower than their highs in early 2021, during a peak period of excitement for marijuana reform [6].