Top Cannabis REITs to Watch in December 2025Cannabis real estate investment trusts remain a unique way to gain sector exposure. Instead of selling cannabis, these companies collect rent or interest. As a result, they reduce direct operational risk. Still, tenant health and capital markets remain critical factors. As December 2025 approaches, several names stand out for investors. In particular, Innovative Industrial Properties, NewLake Capital Partners, and Chicago Atlantic Real Estate Finance deserve atten ...

Core Insights - Cannabis REITs are gaining momentum as investors seek dividend-paying stocks with long-term growth potential, with the U.S. cannabis market projected to exceed $45 billion by the end of 2025 [1][4] - The sector is benefiting from federal reclassification efforts and pro-cannabis amendments, improving investor sentiment and technical strength among several cannabis REITs [2][3] - Cannabis REITs provide a stable income stream and exposure to a rapidly growing industry, making them attractive for dividend investors [1][3] Company Summaries - **Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc. (IIPR)**: The largest cannabis REIT in the U.S., owning over 110 properties across 19 states, with a focus on long-term, triple-net lease agreements. In the most recent quarter, IIPR reported $74 million in rental revenue, a 12% year-over-year increase, and net income of $35 million, or $1.22 per share [5][8] - **NewLake Capital Partners, Inc. (NLCP)**: Owns 32 properties across 15 states, focusing on long-term leases with financially healthy cannabis businesses. In its latest quarterly report, NLCP posted $19 million in rental revenue, a 10% increase, and net income of $11 million, or $0.45 per share [9][10] - **Chicago Atlantic Real Estate Finance, Inc. (REFI)**: Specializes in lending capital to licensed cannabis operators, having deployed over $500 million across more than a dozen states. REFI reported $22 million in revenue, a 15% year-over-year increase, and net income of $13 million, or $0.68 per share [10][12] Market Trends - The cannabis sector is experiencing significant growth, with increasing legalization efforts and rising tenant demand, positioning cannabis REITs as one of the best asset classes to watch [3][4] - Each of the highlighted REITs offers a unique approach to accessing the cannabis industry, with IIPR focusing on scale, NLCP on tenant quality, and REFI on high yields through lending [13][14] - The importance of real estate financing in the cannabis supply chain is becoming critical as legalization evolves, making these REITs top candidates for investors seeking yield and diversification [14]