Top Ancillary Cannabis Stocks to Watch in December 2025Ancillary cannabis stocks remain an important part of the sector because they avoid direct exposure to federal restrictions. These companies do not grow or sell cannabis products. Instead, they provide the equipment, infrastructure, or services that the industry depends on. This approach creates a different risk profile. It also allows investors to participate in industry growth even while federal laws continue to change. Demand for cultivation equipmen ...

Industry Overview - The U.S. legal cannabis market is projected to reach nearly $45 billion by 2025, with continued double-digit growth expected over the next several years [1] - State-level legalization is gaining momentum, with bipartisan bills being introduced more frequently, contributing to a positive long-term outlook despite federal reform uncertainties [2] Company Summaries GrowGeneration Corp. (GRWG) - GrowGeneration operates over 70 stores across 22 states, focusing on hydroponic and garden supply retail, with a significant presence in California, Colorado, Florida, Michigan, and New York [3] - In Q1 2025, GrowGeneration reported net revenue of $35.7 million, a year-over-year decline, but improved gross margin to 27.2% through better inventory management and reduced discounting [7] - The company maintained strong liquidity with over $50 million in cash and no debt, despite a net loss of $9.4 million [8] Hydrofarm Holdings Group, Inc. (HYFM) - Hydrofarm is a leading manufacturer and distributor of hydroponic equipment, operating nine distribution centers across North America and Europe, with a focus on indoor cannabis cultivation [9] - In Q1 2025, Hydrofarm reported net sales of $40.5 million, a significant decline attributed to oversupply in cannabis markets, while gross profit margins remained above 20% [10] - The company posted a net loss of $14.4 million but ended the quarter with over $13 million in cash and available credit, focusing on cost discipline and brand consolidation [11] Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (SMG) - Scotts Miracle-Gro, known for lawn and garden care, has a significant role in the cannabis supply chain through its Hawthorne Gardening subsidiary, which focuses on hydroponic equipment and nutrients [12] - In Q2 2025, Scotts reported total sales of $1.42 billion, a decline from the previous year, but gross margins improved to approximately 39% due to cost efficiencies [15] - The company delivered adjusted earnings per share of $3.98, with management reaffirming full-year earnings and cash flow guidance, expecting non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA to reach $570 to $590 million [16] Investment Insights - Ancillary cannabis stocks like GrowGeneration, Hydrofarm, and Scotts Miracle-Gro provide exposure to the cannabis sector without the regulatory risks associated with plant-touching companies [17] - These companies are adapting to weak cultivation demand by focusing on higher-margin products and operational efficiencies, positioning themselves for potential recovery if market conditions improve [18] - Investors should monitor these stocks as they represent different strategies to gain cannabis exposure while managing risk [19]

Industry Overview - The marijuana stock market is currently facing uncertainty due to the political climate in the USA, making it difficult for investors to have strong convictions about positive market outcomes [1] - There is speculation that improved industry regulations could lead to increased investor confidence and higher share prices for marijuana stocks [2] Trading Dynamics - Trading levels for marijuana stocks are often low and short-lived, with some investors hoping for small bounces in stock prices [2] - Ancillary cannabis stocks have shown stronger trading performance as they do not solely rely on cannabis, making them perceived as safer investments [3] Company Highlights - **Leafly Holdings, Inc.**: Operates as an online cannabis discovery marketplace. Recently received a notice of delisting from Nasdaq due to failure to meet the minimum net income requirement of $500,000 [4][6] - **WM Technology, Inc.**: Provides e-commerce and compliance software solutions for the cannabis market. Reported its Q4 and full-year financial results for 2024 [7][8] - **High Tide Inc.**: Engages in cannabis retail, with plans to open a new retail store, bringing its total to 195 locations. Reported revenue of $47.7 million for Q4 2024, an increase from the previous quarter [10][11] Financial Performance - High Tide's revenue for fiscal year 2024 was $184.5 million, a decrease from $188.0 million in the prior year. However, net income increased to $12.2 million from a net loss of $15.7 million in the prior year [11]