Marijuana Stocks to Watch as 2026 Trading Momentum Builds

Industry Overview - The U.S. cannabis sector is adjusting as February 2026 approaches, with a shift in focus towards sustainability and execution rather than rapid expansion [1] - Higher interest rates have prompted companies to reassess spending habits, making balance sheet strength increasingly important [1] - Revenue quality is prioritized over headline growth figures, with companies generating consistent sales standing out [1] Market Dynamics - State-level legalization continues to expand, with several markets maturing into stable revenue generators, providing predictable consumer demand [2] - Medical and adult-use programs are key growth drivers, while federal reform discussions linger as a potential catalyst for the sector [2] - Uncertainty regarding federal reform limits institutional participation in the cannabis market [2] Investor Behavior - Retail investors play a critical role in cannabis trading volume, with February marking renewed interest after year-end repositioning [3] - Tax-loss selling pressure typically fades by February, allowing fundamentally sound stocks to attract attention [3] - Dispensary count and geographic exposure are key evaluation metrics, with diversified operators reducing market-specific risk [3] Financial Discipline - Financial discipline is essential for long-term survival, with companies generating real revenue gaining investor credibility [4] - Companies relying on speculation face increasing pressure, highlighting the importance of operational efficiency and cost management [4] Company Profiles Planet 13 Holdings Inc. (PLNH) - Operates as a vertically integrated cannabis retailer, known for its large Las Vegas dispensary that attracts both tourists and locals [5][6] - Emphasizes experiential retail, blending entertainment and product selection to differentiate from traditional dispensaries [5] - Operates over ten dispensaries nationwide and produces its own cannabis products, targeting premium consumers [6][9] - Revenue has fluctuated due to pricing pressure, but the company continues to generate meaningful quarterly sales [9] - Management focuses on reducing operating expenses and improving margins while monitoring same-store sales trends [10][11] FLUENT Corp. (CNTMF) - Operates as a regional cannabis company with a significant presence in Florida, one of the largest medical cannabis markets [11][12] - Emphasizes controlled expansion and brand consistency, operating over thirty dispensaries nationwide [12][14] - Generates over $100 million in annual revenue, with modest growth affected by pricing pressure [14] - Management focuses on operational efficiency and improving liquidity, with moderate debt levels compared to larger peers [15] Verano Holdings Corp. (VRNOF) - One of the largest cannabis operators in the U.S., with a strong presence in states like Illinois and Florida [16][17] - Operates over 150 dispensaries and owns several cultivation facilities, supporting supply chain control [17][19] - Generates substantial revenue but continues to report net losses due to pricing pressure and elevated operating costs [19] - Management is focused on cost optimization and selective retail expansion, with future profitability dependent on margin recovery [20]