This Week In Cannabis: Trump Policy Updates, Corporate Moves, Regulatory Shifts And Product Innovations
This week, the cannabis industry saw a flurry of activity, from strategic mergers and robust financial reports to product launches and key regulatory developments.
Major players are repositioning themselves through acquisitions and leadership transitions while innovative products and partnerships are driving growth in consumer markets. Meanwhile, legal and policy debates continue to shape the future of cannabis regulation both domestically and abroad.
Here’s a comprehensive roundup of the top news shaping the cannabis landscape.
Corporate Moves And Financial Results
Organigram Global Inc. (NASDAQ:OGI) made headlines with its acquisition of Collective Project Limited for an upfront C$6.2 million, with additional contingent payments that could bring the total consideration up to C$24 million. The deal marks Organigram’s first commercial entry into the fast-growing hemp‑derived THC beverage market in the U.S. and accelerates its move into Canada’s emerging cannabis beverage category. CEO Beena Goldenberg explained, “The acquisition of Collective Project marks yet another strategic milestone towards Organigram’s global leadership ambitions.”
Canopy Growth Corporation (NASDAQ:CGC) announced an optional early prepayment on its senior secured term loan—settling $100 million at a discounted price of $97.5 million. CFO Judy Hong stated, “Canopy has further improved its balance sheet with this early prepayment by reducing our overall debt position as well as lowering annual interest costs.” This transaction ensures that the company has no material debt until September 2027.
Grown Rogue International Inc. (OTC:GRUSF) reported strong fourth‑quarter and full‑year 2024 results with revenue increasing 16% to $27.0 million and adjusted EBITDA rising 27% compared to the previous period. The company, which received licensing approval in New Jersey and expanded its Michigan operations, sees continued growth in competitive markets despite pricing pressures. CEO Obie Strickler emphasized the team’s relentless focus on cost controls and yield improvements.
AYR Wellness Inc. (OTCQX:AYRWF) announced a leadership transition with Steven M. Cohen stepping down as Interim CEO and Scott Davido taking over the role. “We appreciate Steven’s willingness to stay on as an advisor as we continue to execute on our strategic initiatives,” said Chairman Louis Karger. Cohen added, “I have appreciated the opportunity to lead AYR over the past few months and I do so with the utmost confidence that AYR is in the right hands.”
Other significant updates include:
- MediPharm Labs Corp. (OTCQB:MEDIF) posted a robust 2024 with net revenue up 27% to $42 million and gross profit improving to $12.8 million. The company also achieved an 81% improvement in its adjusted EBITDA loss.
- IM Cannabis Corp. (NASDAQ:IMCC) reported a 25% increase in Q4 revenue, a return to profit on adjusted EBITDA and robust performance driven by accelerated growth in its German operations.
- Chicago Atlantic BDC, Inc. (NASDAQ:LIEN), formerly Silver Spike Investment Corp., delivered its first earnings report after completing a strategic acquisition of a diversified loan portfolio, with net investment income of $8.0 million and a NAV per share of $13.20.
- Innocan Pharma Corporation (OTC:INNPF) revealed that its full‑year 2024 revenues surged by 114.6% to US$29.4 million, while its gross profit increased by 118.6% to US$26.2 million.
- Jones Soda Co. (NASDAQ: