Top 3 Canadian Cannabis Stocks to Watch in February 2026The Canadian cannabis sector continues to evolve in early 2026. Although volatility remains, investor interest is returning. Regulatory discussions in the United States are once again gaining momentum. Because of that, Canadian operators with U.S. exposure are drawing attention. Many investors are watching companies positioned for cross-border expansion.Canada remains a mature recreational market. However, growth there has slowed compared to earlier ye ...

Cannara Biotech Update Summary Company Overview - **Company**: Cannara Biotech (OTCPK: LOVF.F) - **Industry**: Cannabis - **Focus**: Canadian cannabis market with a strategy centered on operational efficiency and brand strength Key Points and Arguments Business Model and Strategy - Cannara operates as a second mover in the cannabis industry, focusing on sustainable margins and operational efficiency rather than rapid expansion [3][4] - The company has three flagship brands: Nugz, Tribal, and Orchid, which cover multiple categories and price points while maintaining quality [4][9] - Cannara has built a disciplined operating model that emphasizes market discipline, low-cost production, and a consumer-first approach [6][7] Production Capacity and Facilities - Cannara currently operates two facilities in Quebec with an annual production capacity of approximately 50,000 kilograms, with plans to expand to 100,000 kilograms [5][19] - The Valleyfield post-processing facility is under construction and is expected to unlock additional capacity by the end of fiscal 2026 [6][8] - Incremental capacity growth is planned through activating existing grow rooms rather than building new facilities, ensuring capital efficiency [21][22] Financial Performance - In fiscal 2025, Cannara reported gross revenues of CAD 150.053 million and net revenues of CAD 108 million, with a gross margin of 41% [15] - The company achieved an 86% increase in Adjusted EBITDA, totaling CAD 28.1 million at a 26% margin [15] - For Q1 2026, net revenues were CAD 30.1 million, reflecting a 20% year-over-year growth, with a gross margin of 45% and an Adjusted EBITDA of CAD 8.8 million at a 29% margin [16] Market Position and Share - Cannara's national retail market share increased from 2.9% in fiscal 2024 to 4.1% in Q1 2026, with significant gains in Quebec where it holds a mid-teen market share [10][11] - The company is positioned to capture market share from both smaller and larger competitors, particularly those distracted by international opportunities [43] Capital and Investment Strategy - Cannara achieved OTCQX qualification and is seeking conditional approval for listing on the TSX, which would enhance visibility and liquidity [8][14] - A recent CAD 6.3 million private placement was completed at a 16% premium to the share price, strengthening the balance sheet for future growth [8][14] - The company plans to allocate approximately CAD 30 million for capital expenditures over the next few years to support expansion [45] Risk Management and Inventory Control - Cannara employs a disciplined approach to inventory management, adjusting production based on market demand to avoid overproduction [48][49] - The company is focused on maintaining gross margins between 40% and 45%, with strategies in place to remain competitive on pricing without sacrificing quality [37][38] Future Outlook - Cannara's growth strategy is centered on the Canadian market, with plans to double its market share and expand its product offerings [30][34] - The company is exploring potential international opportunities but remains committed to its core Canadian operations [35][36] Leadership and Governance - The leadership team, including CEO Zohar Krivorot, emphasizes disciplined execution and long-term value creation [24][25] - The board includes members with extensive experience in public company governance and regulatory compliance, providing a competitive advantage [25] Additional Important Insights - Cannara's brands have received recognition in industry awards, validating their market position and consumer appeal [7] - The company is focused on genetic innovation to enhance product offerings and maintain competitive margins [39][41] - Cannara's operational model is designed to be replicable, with potential for future expansion into international markets as conditions allow [62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1, net revenue increased by 49% to CAD 65.3 million from CAD 42.7 million in the same prior year period, primarily due to growth in the Canadian business, integration of Motif, and higher international sales [17] - Adjusted gross profit for the quarter increased by 67% to CAD 23.9 million compared to CAD 14.3 million in Q1 last year, supported by higher revenue and efficiency gains [17][18] - Adjusted EBITDA in Q1 was CAD 5.3 million, up 273% from CAD 1.4 million in the prior year period, driven by increased scale and higher international sales [20][21] - Net income for the quarter was CAD 20 million compared to a net loss of CAD 23 million in the same prior year period, reflecting a CAD 43 million year-over-year improvement [21][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1, the company harvested over 28,000 kilograms of flower, representing a 43% year-over-year increase, driven by improving yields and ongoing refinements to nutrient programs [10] - The company maintained the number one position in overall vapes with a 20.4% market share and moved to the number two position in overall pre-rolls at 7.7% [8] - In beverages, market share increased by 80 basis points year-over-year to 5.9%, while in concentrates, the company achieved a 15.5% category share [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company holds the number one market share position in Canada with 11.3% total share in Q1 and 11.7% over the past 12 months [5][6] - In Quebec, the company moved up to the number three position with 9.9% market share for the quarter, driven by the success of vape launches [7] - The company outperformed in most provinces, holding 33.1% market share in New Brunswick and 21.9% in Newfoundland [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational execution, improving margins, and delivering to markets while also looking at future international expansion opportunities [29][30] - The company aims to balance risk and growth opportunities in international markets while maintaining a strong focus on consumer needs and innovation [30] - The company is optimistic about long-term growth in the cannabis industry and its ability to compete and lead as the market matures [5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that Q1 results reflected strong year-over-year revenue and adjusted EBITDA growth, despite seasonal resets and operational pressures [16] - The company remains confident in its ability to deliver against full-year guidance of revenue exceeding CAD 300 million, supported by improving fundamentals and expanding margins [24] - Management expressed optimism about international sales growth in fiscal 2026, despite a temporary decline in international volumes due to product specifications [12][13] Other Important Information - The company announced a proprietary breakthrough in powdery mildew resistance, allowing for early screening of seedlings and reducing crop loss [11] - The company completed commissioning of its beverage line and began in-house production to support portfolio expansion [12] - The company is preparing for EU GMP certification and is working closely with regulators to address feedback received [13][48] Q&A Session Summary Question: Near-term opportunities and long-term initiatives - Management emphasized the importance of operational execution and cost management as short-term priorities, while focusing on international expansion as a long-term goal [29][30] Question: Insight on international volumes and flower issues - Management acknowledged stringent international flower requirements and identified core drivers of recent issues, expecting to resolve them soon [35] - The estimated impact of the flower issues was approximately CAD 3.5 million on international revenue [36] Question: Recovery in the Canadian market - Management confirmed that distribution levels in BC have returned to normal and expressed confidence in recovering market share despite increased competition [42] Question: EU GMP certification timeline - Management stated they are working closely with regulators to address questions and are aiming for the fastest resolution possible, but could not provide a specific timeline [48] Question: Route to market in Europe - Management indicated a mixed approach for market entry, utilizing both direct sales and partnerships depending on regulations and market conditions [52] Question: U.S. market strategy and regulatory environment - Management noted that the U.S. market is currently a small part of their business and emphasized a cautious approach to investments due to regulatory uncertainties [55][56] Question: Increased competition in pre-rolls - Management acknowledged competitive pressures across all categories, particularly in pre-rolls and vapes, and highlighted upcoming product innovations to address these challenges [60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1, net revenue increased by 49% to CAD 65.3 million from CAD 42.7 million in the same prior year period, primarily due to growth in the Canadian business, integration of Motif, and higher international sales [17] - Adjusted gross profit for the quarter increased by 67% to CAD 23.9 million compared to CAD 14.3 million in Q1 last year, supported by higher revenue and efficiency gains [17][18] - Adjusted EBITDA in Q1 was CAD 5.3 million, up 273% from CAD 1.4 million in the prior year period, driven by increased scale and higher international sales [20][21] - Net income for the quarter was CAD 20 million compared to a net loss of CAD 23 million in the same prior year period, reflecting a CAD 43 million year-over-year improvement [21][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1, international sales reached CAD 5 million, up 55% from Q1 fiscal 2025, despite a sequential decline due to a higher-than-expected proportion of flower that did not meet international specifications [12][17] - The company maintained the number one position in overall vapes with a 20.4% market share and moved to the number two position in overall pre-rolls at 7.7% [8][10] - In beverages, market share increased by 80 basis points year-over-year to 5.9%, while in concentrates, the company achieved a 15.5% category share [8][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company holds the number one market share position in Canada with 11.3% total share in Q1 and 11.7% over the past 12 months [5][6] - In Quebec, the company moved up to the number three position with 9.9% market share for the quarter, driven by successful vape launches [7] - The company outperformed in most provinces, holding 33.1% market share in New Brunswick and 21.9% in Newfoundland [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational execution, improving margins, and delivering to markets while balancing risk and growth opportunities in international markets [29][30] - The company aims to expand into international markets prudently while maintaining a strong focus on consumer needs and innovation [30][31] - The company is optimistic about long-term growth in the cannabis industry and its ability to compete and lead as the market matures [5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the impact of the BC General Employees' Union strike and increased competition in vapes and pre-rolls on market share [6][15] - The company remains confident in its ability to deliver against previously issued guidance, expecting revenue to exceed CAD 300 million for the full year [24] - Management expressed optimism about international sales growth in fiscal 2026, despite temporary issues with product specifications [12][13] Other Important Information - The company harvested over 28,000 kilograms of flower in Q1, representing a 43% year-over-year increase, driven by improved yields and ongoing refinements [10] - The company announced a proprietary breakthrough in powdery mildew resistance, allowing for quicker screening of seedlings [11] - Total cash and short-term investments at quarter end were CAD 63 million, including CAD 7.6 million of unrestricted cash [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Near-term opportunities and prioritization of initiatives - Management emphasized operational execution and cost base improvement as short-term priorities, while focusing on international expansion for long-term growth [29][30] Question: Insight on international volumes and flower issues - Management noted stringent international flower requirements and identified core drivers of recent issues, expecting to resolve them soon [35] - The estimated impact on international revenue was about CAD 3.5 million due to out-of-spec flower [36] Question: Recovery in the Canadian market - Management confirmed recovery in BC distribution levels and acknowledged increased competition in vapes and pre-rolls, with plans for new innovations to regain market share [42][43] Question: EU GMP certification timeline - Management is working closely with regulators to address feedback and is unable to provide a specific timeline for certification [47][48] Question: Route to market in Europe - Management indicated a mixed approach for market entry, utilizing both direct sales and partnerships depending on regulations [51][53] Question: U.S. market investment strategy - Management stated that the U.S. market is currently a minor part of the business, and they are being cautious with investments due to regulatory uncertainties [55][56]

Core Insights - Christina Lake Cannabis Corp. has completed the sale of 99 acres of non-core land for gross proceeds of $551,000, which will enhance the company's liquidity and strengthen its balance sheet [1] - The land was deemed non-essential for current or future operations following the Midway acquisition in February 2024, allowing the company to focus on its core assets [1] - Proceeds from the sale will be allocated for general working capital [1] Company Overview - Christina Lake Cannabis is a licensed cannabis producer under the Cannabis Act, holding a standard cultivation license and a research and development license from Health Canada [2] - The company's facilities include a 32-acre property with over 950,000 square feet of outdoor grow space and a 342-acre property with approximately 100 acres of licensed outdoor grow space [2] - The company specializes in producing high-quality outdoor flower, extracts, and distillate for its B2B client base [2]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a record Q2 net revenue of $218 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of $8.4 million and a reported EPS loss of $0.02, reflecting a significant improvement in performance metrics [4][22]. - The net loss for the quarter was $43.5 million, a 49% improvement year-over-year compared to $85.3 million, with cash flow used in operations reduced to $8.5 million from $40.7 million last year [27][28]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cannabis revenue increased to $68 million, with international cannabis revenue growing 36% year-over-year and 51% sequentially to $20 million [9][22]. - Beverage revenue totaled $50 million, impacted by headwinds in the craft beer segment, while distribution revenue grew by 26% year-over-year to $85 million [11][23]. - Wellness revenue remained flat at $14.6 million, driven by innovation in product offerings [20][24]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Canadian adult-use cannabis sales channel net of excise tax grew to $46 million, with recreational cannabis growing 6% in the quarter [12][22]. - The international cannabis market, particularly in Europe, is seen as a significant growth opportunity, with expectations for continued expansion in Germany, the UK, and Poland [10][39]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its strong balance sheet and liquidity to capitalize on regulatory changes in the cannabis industry, particularly in the U.S. [5][29]. - The strategic focus includes enhancing operational efficiency in the beverage segment and expanding pharmacy reach in Germany through Tilray Pharma [11][18]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's trajectory for the second half of fiscal 2026, citing a diversified platform and improving fundamentals [21][29]. - The company is preparing for potential regulatory changes in the U.S. that could significantly impact the cannabis market, particularly with the rescheduling of cannabis [6][54]. Other Important Information - The company operates more than 40 brands in over 20 countries and is a leader in the cannabis market, with a strong position in both the Canadian and international markets [5][6]. - The company has a robust cash position of approximately $292 million, providing flexibility for strategic opportunities [5][28]. Q&A Session Summary Question: What can the industry do to improve the regulatory outcome regarding the intoxicating hemp ban? - Management is working with legislators to extend the deadline or modify regulations to allow for a regulated amount of milligrams to be sold nationally [30][31]. Question: Can you quantify how much supply was held back from the Canadian market? - Approximately $5 million worth of supply was held back to redeploy into higher-margin international markets [32]. Question: What drove the substantial increase in distribution sales? - The increase was driven by new distribution channels and competitive pricing, with a focus on high-margin SKUs [34][36]. Question: What are the expectations for growth within the Canadian market? - Management expects mid- to high single-digit growth in the Canadian market, supported by new product launches and strong demand [40][41]. Question: Can you provide more color on the CC Pharma business and its distribution reach? - The company aims to triple its distribution reach in Germany, leveraging its sales organization to sell more medical cannabis [44][46]. Question: What is the long-term outlook for the beverage business? - Management remains confident in the beverage business, emphasizing the importance of integration and the potential for future growth, particularly with cannabis-infused drinks [51][53].

Earnings Reports Overview - The earnings calendar for the first full week of 2026 includes reports from sectors such as cannabis, AI infrastructure, and consumer goods [1] - Notable companies reporting include Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. before the market opens on Wednesday [3] - After the market closes on Wednesday, Applied Digital Corp. is expected to report a loss of 10 cents per share with quarterly revenue of $87.51 million [4] Cannabis Sector Insights - Tilray Brands, Inc. is set to report its second-quarter 2026 results after the market closes on Thursday, with analysts expecting a loss of 20 cents per share and revenue of $210.95 million [6][7] - The company has never reported a profitable quarter, and investors will be focused on updates regarding its new division Tilray Medical USA and expansion strategy following recent federal rescheduling news [7] Other Company Reports - Constellation Brands, Inc. will report its third-quarter 2026 results after Wednesday's closing bell [5] - Other companies reporting include Commercial Metals Co., Neogen Corp., Helen of Troy Limited, and The Simply Good Foods Co. throughout the week [9]

Market Predictions for 2026 - The S&P 500 is expected to deliver single-digit gains in 2026, ending a streak of double-digit gains over the past three years, but no major market sell-off is anticipated due to strong economic and corporate earnings [4][5] - Small- and mid-cap stocks are predicted to outperform larger stocks, with Mirum Pharmaceuticals highlighted as a potential winner after its share price nearly doubled in 2025, and expected positive results from clinical studies in 2026 [6][7][8] - The AI sector is expected to shift from hype to tangible returns, with Alphabet predicted to continue benefiting from its Google Cloud unit and agentic AI technology, which is anticipated to drive growth [9][10][12] - The renewable energy sector is expected to continue its rebound, driven by strong AI growth and increased demand for energy to power data centers, with Brookfield Renewable and Clearway Energy expected to perform well [13][15] - Political dynamics in the mid-term election year are expected to create volatility in the stock market, but once the uncertainty fades, stocks are predicted to move higher, with potential winners in the cannabis industry if Democrats gain control [16][18]

Company Overview - Proactive is a provider of fast, accessible, informative, and actionable business and finance news content aimed at a global investment audience [2] - The company operates with a team of experienced and qualified news journalists across key finance and investing hubs including London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney, and Perth [2] Market Focus - Proactive specializes in medium and small-cap markets while also covering blue-chip companies, commodities, and broader investment stories [3] - The content delivered by the team includes insights across various sectors such as biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto, and emerging digital and EV technologies [3] Technology Adoption - Proactive is recognized for its forward-looking approach and enthusiastic adoption of technology to enhance workflows [4] - The company utilizes automation and software tools, including generative AI, while ensuring that all published content is edited and authored by humans [5]

Core Insights - Canadian cannabis stocks are gaining attention as sector sentiment improves, with significant exposure to the U.S. market through brands and partnerships [1] - The U.S. cannabis industry is expanding, with total sales exceeding $32 billion annually and projections to surpass $50 billion by 2030, keeping Canadian operators relevant [1] - Renewed discussions on federal cannabis reform and regulatory changes are creating momentum for Canadian cannabis stocks, which often react sharply to U.S. policy developments [1] Company Summaries Tilray Brands (TLRY) - Tilray is a diversified cannabis and consumer products company with operations in cultivation, processing, and branded product distribution, expanding into beverages and wellness products for revenue stability [3][6] - The company has exposure to the U.S. market through hemp-derived products and THC offerings, with strategic partnerships enhancing national distribution [6] - Financially, Tilray is navigating a challenging environment with modest year-over-year revenue growth, unprofitability, and improved adjusted margins across segments [7] Canopy Growth (CGC) - Canopy Growth is a prominent Canadian cannabis producer with a broad portfolio of adult-use and medical brands, including flower, vapes, edibles, and infused beverages [8][10] - The company maintains indirect exposure to the U.S. market through affiliated entities, allowing participation in the U.S. THC market without direct federal conflict [10] - Recent financial results show operational improvement with increased quarterly revenue and reduced operating expenses, although profitability has not yet been achieved [11] Aurora Cannabis (ACB) - Aurora Cannabis focuses primarily on medical cannabis, operating cultivation and distribution facilities across multiple countries, including Europe and Australia [12][14] - The company has limited direct U.S. cannabis exposure but trades on NASDAQ, providing access for U.S. investors [14] - Recent financial results indicate progress toward stabilization, with increased medical cannabis revenue and improved gross margins, while maintaining solid cash reserves [15]