Industry Overview - The U.S. cannabis industry is evolving as it approaches 2026, with growth being uneven but still presenting opportunities [1] - Operators are focusing on efficiency and profitability, while investors are monitoring federal reform progress [1][2] - Rescheduling discussions have improved overall sentiment, but capital access remains limited for many companies [1] Market Dynamics - Leading multi-state operators are building scale, with strong retail footprints providing steady revenue streams [2] - Brand development is crucial for defending margins as competition tightens, making operational discipline critical [2] - Stability is a priority for investors, with balance sheet strength and positive adjusted EBITDA trends being more important than rapid expansion [3] Key Markets - Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Ohio are identified as key battleground states with strong consumer demand [3] - Pricing pressure continues in mature regions, making scale and branding competitive advantages [3] Notable Companies - Ascend Wellness Holdings is refining operations and focusing on efficiency, with annual revenue in the half-billion-dollar range and positive adjusted EBITDA trends [4][9][10] - Cansortium, operating under the FLUENT brand, is focused on Florida and maintains a vertically integrated structure, with recent strategic moves improving its balance sheet [11][14][15] - Cresco Labs is one of the largest U.S. multi-state operators, with a broad footprint and strong brand presence, generating annual revenue exceeding several hundred million dollars [16][18][20] Financial Performance - Ascend has reported fluctuating quarterly revenue due to pricing pressure but has shown improvement in adjusted EBITDA margins [9] - Cansortium's revenue reflects industry volatility, but cost reductions have supported adjusted EBITDA stability [14] - Cresco has consistently maintained positive adjusted EBITDA, with liquidity improving following balance sheet adjustments [19]

Core Viewpoint - The Cannabist Company has extended its forbearance agreement with senior noteholders, allowing them to defer exercising their rights until February 27, 2026, amidst ongoing financial negotiations [1][2]. Group 1: Forbearance Agreement - The Cannabist Company announced a further extension of the forbearance agreement with an ad hoc group of noteholders holding the Company's 9.25% Senior Secured Notes and 9.00% Senior Secured Convertible Notes, both due December 31, 2028 [1]. - The forbearance agreement allows noteholders to refrain from exercising their rights and remedies under the governing indenture and applicable law until February 27, 2026 [1]. Group 2: Company Overview - The Cannabist Company, formerly known as Columbia Care, is a prominent player in the cannabis industry, operating 69 facilities across 11 U.S. jurisdictions, including 54 dispensaries and 15 cultivation and manufacturing facilities [1]. - The company launched its retail brand, Cannabist, in 2021, establishing a national dispensary network that utilizes proprietary technology platforms [1]. - The Cannabist Company offers a diverse range of cannabis products, including flower, edibles, oils, and tablets, and manufactures several popular brands [1].

Core Insights - Gotham has launched the Gotham Growth Project (GGP), a business accelerator aimed at supporting cannabis consumer brands from underserved communities, with an initial focus on Black-owned businesses in New York City [1][4] Group 1: Program Overview - GGP provides hands-on business strategy and mentorship to help founders build sustainable cannabis businesses [1] - The program includes six focused sessions covering various aspects of business development [2][6] - The program will conclude with a live pitch showcase at Gotham's semiannual leadership conference in October [3] Group 2: Program Objectives and Structure - The mission of GGP is to assist founders in transitioning from traction to scalability, addressing the challenges faced by diverse entrepreneurs [2] - Founders will engage in a curriculum that combines expert instruction, peer collaboration, and practical assignments to tackle real-world business challenges [3] Group 3: Eligibility and Application - Eligible applicants must be at least 51% Black-owned, have been in business for at least one year, and have at least one product on the market [5] - Applications are currently open and will close on March 11 at 5:00 p.m. ET [5]

Industry Overview - The U.S. cannabis sector is at a critical inflection point as of February 2026, with improved market sentiment but selective investor interest [1] - Long-term demand for cannabis continues to grow despite price volatility, with state-level legalization expanding and medical programs remaining stable [2] - Profitability is now prioritized over rapid expansion, leading companies to tighten operations and protect margins [3] Company Highlights Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (TCNNF) - Trulieve is a dominant cannabis operator in the U.S., operating a vertically integrated business model across cultivation, processing, distribution, and retail sales [4] - The company has a significant presence in Florida, which serves as its core revenue engine, while also expanding into states like Pennsylvania, Arizona, Maryland, Ohio, and Connecticut [5] - As of early 2026, Trulieve operates over 230 dispensaries nationwide, enhancing brand visibility and customer loyalty [7] - The company focuses on disciplined expansion, targeting profitable markets to remain competitive during industry slowdowns [9] - Financially, Trulieve emphasizes cash flow and balance sheet strength, with stable revenue and healthy gross margins despite pricing pressure [10] - Management has taken steps to address near-term debt obligations, improving liquidity and reducing financial risk [11] - Trulieve continues generating meaningful EBITDA and maintains sufficient cash reserves for selective growth [12] - The company is well-positioned for future growth as regulatory clarity improves [13] Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (CURLF) - Curaleaf is the largest cannabis company in the U.S. by revenue, operating across numerous states and markets, providing diversification and risk mitigation [13] - The company operates over 160 dispensaries, with a significant retail presence in Florida and strong positions in New Jersey, New York, Arizona, and Illinois [14] - Curaleaf focuses on operational efficiency, optimizing existing assets rather than aggressive expansion, which helps preserve margins [17] - Financially, Curaleaf generates over a billion dollars in annual revenue, with recent trends showing stabilization and improved gross margins [18] - The company is focused on reducing expenses and streamlining operations, with debt management being a priority [19] - While net profitability remains elusive, losses have narrowed, reflecting disciplined spending and operational focus [20] Verano Holdings Corp. (VRNOF) - Verano is a vertically integrated cannabis operator with a footprint in key markets such as Illinois, Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Arizona [21] - The company operates retail dispensaries under brands like Zen Leaf and MÜV, maintaining a strategically placed retail network [22] - Verano emphasizes product quality and consistent branding to attract loyal customers, balancing retail growth with operational discipline [24] - Financially, Verano has faced revenue pressure but has focused on cost control to protect margins [25] - The company has significant net losses due to ongoing investments and restructuring costs, but prioritizes operational efficiency [26] - Verano is considered a higher-risk, higher-reward operator, with potential upside if market conditions improve [26]

Core Viewpoint - The Cannabist Company has entered into a forbearance agreement with noteholders due to liquidity challenges, following its decision to forgo interest payments on its senior secured notes [1][2][4]. Group 1: Forbearance Agreement - The Cannabist Company has signed a forbearance agreement with an ad hoc group of noteholders holding over 75% of its 9.25% and 9.00% Senior Secured Notes due December 31, 2028 [1][4]. - The forbearance agreement allows the noteholders to refrain from exercising their rights until February 17, 2026, due to the company's failure to make interest payments [4]. Group 2: Financial Strategy - On December 31, 2025, the company opted not to make interest payments to enhance short-term financial flexibility and preserve liquidity while evaluating strategic alternatives, including asset sales [2][3]. - The non-payment of interest during the 30-day grace period constitutes an event of default, prompting discussions with noteholders about potential strategies to address liquidity needs [2][3]. Group 3: Company Overview - The Cannabist Company, formerly known as Columbia Care, is a leading cultivator and retailer of cannabis products in the U.S., operating 77 facilities across 12 jurisdictions [5]. - The company offers a wide range of cannabis products and has established a national dispensary network under its retail brand, Cannabist [5].

Core Viewpoint - Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. has opened a new dispensary in Englewood, Ohio, expanding its retail presence in the state's regulated cannabis market, catering to both medical and non-medical customers [1][2]. Group 1: Company Expansion - The new dispensary in Englewood is part of Ascend's strategy to enhance its retail footprint in Ohio, where it already operates multiple locations [2]. - Ascend aims to provide safe access and quality products while focusing on a patient- and customer-centric retail experience [2]. Group 2: Grand Opening and Community Engagement - A grand opening event is scheduled for January 16, inviting local patients, customers, and community members to explore the new facility and learn about Ascend's product offerings [3]. - The dispensary is designed to create an efficient and welcoming shopping experience, featuring a variety of cannabis products from leading brands [4]. Group 3: Product Offering and Customer Engagement - The Englewood dispensary will offer a wide range of cannabis products, including flower, vapes, edibles, and concentrates, with options for in-store or online purchases [4]. - Ascend has introduced a revamped loyalty program, the Ascenders Club, to reward customers for their purchases and in-store deals [5]. Group 4: Operational Details - The Englewood dispensary will operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., serving both medical and non-medical customers [6]. - For further information about Ascend and its dispensaries, customers can visit the company's website [6]. Group 5: Company Overview - Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. is a vertically integrated cannabis operator with assets across several states, including Ohio, and produces a curated selection of cannabis products for retail and wholesale [7].

Core Insights - The U.S. cannabis sector is evolving with regulatory momentum, and strong operators are positioning for long-term growth as of January 2026 [1] Group 1: Trulieve Cannabis Corp. - Trulieve Cannabis Corp. is a leading multistate operator with a dominant presence in Florida and over 190 dispensaries nationwide, supporting strong brand recognition and retail traffic [2][4] - The company emphasizes vertical integration and customer loyalty programs, which contribute to strong repeat customer visits and controlled expansion [2][4] - Financially, Trulieve focuses on stability, generating strong quarterly revenue and maintaining high gross margins, while also producing positive operating cash flow and reducing debt [4] Group 2: Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. - Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. operates approximately 150 dispensaries across key markets such as Florida, Massachusetts, New York, and California, with extensive cultivation and processing facilities [6][8] - The company offers a diverse product portfolio and is expanding internationally, which diversifies revenue sources beyond the U.S. market [6][8] - Despite facing pricing competition and regulatory costs, Curaleaf generates positive operating cash flow and is focusing on cost reductions to stabilize profitability [8] Group 3: Cresco Labs Inc. - Cresco Labs Inc. is known for its branded product strategy and operates in high-value U.S. markets, including Illinois and Pennsylvania, with a strong emphasis on wholesale distribution [9][11] - The company's recent financial performance shows stable quarterly revenue and narrowing net losses, indicating potential stabilization despite industry headwinds [11] - Cresco benefits from improving wholesale demand and may gain from potential federal policy developments that could enhance profitability [11]

Core Insights - Tilray Brands, Inc. is a significant player in the cannabis industry, involved in research, cultivation, production, marketing, and distribution of medical cannabis products [1] - The company operates across multiple segments, including Cannabis Business, Distribution Business, Beverage Alcohol Business, and Wellness Business, catering to a diverse customer base [1] Price Target and Analyst Sentiment - The consensus price target for Tilray has increased from $4.5 to $10 over the past year, indicating growing optimism among analysts [2] - Analyst John Zamparo from CIBC has set a more conservative price target of $8, reflecting a cautious approach ahead of the company's second-quarter earnings results scheduled for January 8, 2025 [2] Strategic Expansions and Stock Performance - Tilray's strategic expansions and partnerships in the beverage alcohol and wellness sectors have positively influenced stock sentiment [3] - The company's stock value has nearly tripled over the past six months, driven by the anticipation of cannabis reclassification in the United States, which is expected to significantly benefit cannabis growers like Tilray [3] Financial Performance - Recent earnings reports have shown improvements in revenue and profitability, supported by strong sales in both the cannabis and beverage alcohol segments [4] - The financial strength of Tilray is crucial as the cannabis industry continues to grow, driven by increasing consumer demand and the adoption of medical cannabis [4] Product Innovation - Product innovation is a key focus for Tilray, with new offerings such as GMP-certified flowers, oils, vapes, edibles, and topicals [5] - These innovations help Tilray maintain its competitive edge and attract a broader customer base in the evolving cannabis industry [5]

Core Viewpoint - The Cannabist Company Holdings Inc. has entered into an agreement to sell its Virginia subsidiary, Green Leaf Medical of Virginia, LLC, for a total consideration of $130 million, following a go-shop process that identified a superior acquisition proposal [1][8]. Transaction Details - The sale involves the purchase of all equity interests of Green Leaf Virginia for $130 million, with $117.5 million payable in cash at closing and $12.5 million held in escrow for post-closing adjustments [3]. - The transaction is subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is expected to close early in 2026 [4]. Financial Implications - The company plans to use a portion of the net proceeds from the transaction to redeem its Senior Secured Notes [5]. Strategic Review - A special committee of independent directors has been formed to explore strategic alternatives, including asset sales and mergers, in light of ongoing operational and financial challenges [9]. Background Information - The Cannabist Company, formerly known as Columbia Care, operates 77 facilities across 12 U.S. jurisdictions, including 61 dispensaries and 16 cultivation and manufacturing facilities [11].

Industry Overview - The U.S. cannabis market is projected to approach $45 billion in sales by 2025, with analysts expecting double-digit annual growth through 2030 [1] - More states are supporting recreational cannabis access, and medical adoption is expanding nationwide [1] - Recent news indicates that President Trump may issue an executive order to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, which could ease restrictions on research, taxation, and investment [1] Trading Insights - Traders are advised to adopt a disciplined process, utilizing technical analysis to identify momentum before volume surges [2] - Key indicators include moving-average curls, trendline breaks, and heavy bid stacking near support [2] - Position sizing should remain small due to the high volatility associated with penny stocks [2] Company Highlights AYR Wellness Inc. (AYRWF) - AYR Wellness is a multi-state cannabis operator based in Miami, Florida, focusing on medical and adult-use cannabis [6] - The company has a vertically integrated structure with cultivation, processing, and retail operations across several states [6] - Financially, AYR reported stagnant revenue year-over-year, with losses expanding due to increased operational costs and competitive pricing pressure [8] FLUENT (CNTMF) - FLUENT is a vertically integrated cannabis company headquartered in Tampa, Florida, with operations in cultivation, manufacturing, and retail [9] - The company has a significant presence in Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania, operating over thirty dispensaries [9] - Recent financial results showed nearly flat revenue year-over-year, with margins compressed due to pricing mix and processing inefficiencies [10] Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CURLF) - Curaleaf is one of the largest cannabis retailers in the U.S., with about 150 retail locations and a diverse product offering [12] - The company has seen revenue growth as new adult-use markets opened, although profitability remains uncertain due to high compliance and operational costs [13] - Curaleaf's extensive retail network provides a competitive advantage, positioning the company well for future growth as federal reforms progress [13] Market Sentiment - The cannabis trade in December focuses on positioning rather than certainty, with stocks like AYRWF, CNTMF, and CURLF providing exposure to real dispensaries and revenue [14] - Improving state access and consumer demand could lead to a stronger industry outlook in 2026 [14]