SNDL: Federal Government Begins Rescheduling Process For Cannabis (Buy)

Core Viewpoint - The recent news regarding the potential rescheduling of cannabis by the US federal government has led to a temporary rally in cannabis stocks, including SNDL Inc. However, the implications of this development require careful analysis [1][4][15]. Group 1: Federal Rescheduling of Cannabis - The DEA has recommended rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, initiating a process that includes a 60-day public review [4][9]. - The Attorney General is confident in the success of the rescheduling process, indicating a shift in US federal drug policy [9][14]. - Rescheduling cannabis would not equate to federal legalization but would allow for looser state business regulations and potential federal tax deductions for cannabis operators [11][15]. Group 2: SNDL's Financial Performance - SNDL reported Q1-2024 net revenue of CA$197.8 million, a 4% increase year-over-year, driven by its cannabis retail and operations segments [19]. - The company achieved gross profits of CA$50.4 million, reflecting a 55% growth year-over-year, with an overall gross margin improvement of 850 basis points [20]. - SNDL's cash flow improved significantly, with a negative cash flow of CA$6.1 million, marking a 91% improvement year-over-year [21]. Group 3: SNDL's Market Position and Strategy - SNDL's SunStream USA structure has been approved by NASDAQ, positioning the company to capitalize on the US cannabis market [2][17]. - The company holds CA$594.2 million in capital deployed in cannabis investments, with CA$560.3 million allocated to SunStream Bancorp [23]. - SNDL's stock price has increased by 62.58% over the past year, indicating strong market performance compared to peers [25]. Group 4: Comparison with Peers - SNDL is currently undervalued compared to its peers, with a current price per share of US$2.64 and a book value per share of US$3.53 [25][35]. - Other Canadian LPs like Tilray and Canopy Growth are showing signs of overvaluation and underperformance, while SNDL and Village Farms are performing better [27][38]. - SNDL's strategy of diversifying into liquor and beer distribution has contributed to its improved financial performance [36].