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:JSDA) reported Q4 revenue falling to $2.8 million and a net loss of $4.6 million, driven by a $1.2 million inventory write‑off and declining sales volumes.
• Rubicon Organics Inc. (OTCQX:ROMJF) celebrated record high net revenue of $48.7 million in 2024, achieving an adjusted EBITDA gain of $4.0 million and securing a $10 million credit facility to support expansion plans.

Product Launches And Brand Expansions

Consumer offerings continue to expand in Illinois. Grön (The Mother of All Edibles), founded by Christine Apple, launched its cannabis‑infused edibles—including Sugar‑Coated Pearls, MEGAs and Chocolate Mini Bars—exclusively at Curaleaf dispensaries beginning in April 2025. "We are thrilled to finally bring our products to the millions of cannabis consumers in Illinois," said Apple.

Meanwhile, MariMed Inc. (CSE:MRMD, OTCQX:MRMD) introduced its Nature's Heritage line, featuring premium cannabis flower, pre‑rolls and vapes. The launch follows the opening of its Mt. Vernon, Illinois cultivation facility and marks the brand's debut in the state, with products now available in approximately 82% of Illinois dispensaries.

Legal, Regulatory And Policy Developments

Recent legal and regulatory developments continue to drive debate. In regulatory news, the U.S. Supreme Court sided with a trucker who was fired after testing positive for THC—allegedly after consuming a hemp‑derived CBD product. The decision, reported by Marijuana Moment, allows the trucker to seek triple damages under a federal anti‑racketeering law.

On the policy front, extensive analysis of the federal cannabis rescheduling debate reveals that moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III would offer only modest benefits while leaving longstanding racial disparities and federal–state conflicts unresolved. A Yale Law Journal forum article argues for decriminalization and deregulation instead of rescheduling.

Federal Policy And Administration Developments

A recent article by Marijuana Moment highlights that cannabis rescheduling is not among the Trump administration's top drug policy priorities. Instead, the administration is focusing on combating drug trafficking and the opioid crisis. While Trump had previously voiced support for cannabis rescheduling and medical cannabis legalization during his 2024 campaign, his current policy priorities emphasize enforcement against substances such as fentanyl, methamphetamines and heroin. This shift underscores the challenges and federal-state conflicts that continue to shape cannabis policy in the U.S.

Industry Challenges And Financial Distress

The sector continues to face significant financial challenges. A recent Benzinga article details defaults on key real estate leases by Gold Flora Corp., 4Front Ventures Corp. and TILT Holdings Inc. These defaults—driven by escalating liabilities-to-market cap ratios and high operating costs—signal a broader liquidity crisis that could threaten other operators such as Cannabist Holdings, Ascend Wellness Holdings and AYR Wellness.

The Bob Fireman Award

Nominations for the 2025 Bob Fireman Award for Entrepreneurship are now open. The award honors cannabis leaders who embody the legacy of Robert “Bob” Fireman—co-founder and former CEO of MariMed Inc. (OTCQX:MRMD). With a submission deadline of May 1, 2025 and the winner to be announced live at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago from June 8–10, 2025, this accolade recognizes leaders committed to integrity, leadership and community impact. For more details, visit this link.

Interviews And Profiles

This week's exclusive interviews include:

• "When Viral Icon Doug The Pug Got Sick, His Family Created A Cannabis Brand: ‘CBD Offers Real Benefits For Pets'" – an in‑depth look at Nonipup's innovative approach to pet wellness. Read the interview
• "We've Accepted Mommy-Wine Culture; Why Not Cannabis?—Meet The Woman Behind The Largest Weed PR Firm In North America" – a profile of Rosie Mattio and her trailblazing work in cannabis public relations. Read the profile
• "Gary Payton Wants You To Rethink Cannabis: ‘It’s About Mental Health… It Brought My Mom Back In Her Final Days’" – an interview capturing Gary Payton's personal journey and his venture into cannabis wellness. Read the interview

Partnerships, Fintech And Banking Solutions

In fintech, Spendr, a Cincinnati‑based cannabis payments startup, raised over $2.7 million in fresh capital as it prepares to expand ahead of a planned Series A later this year. Founder Lucas Gould noted that the funds came largely from existing individual investors, setting the stage for significant growth in 2025.

In banking news, Safe Harbor Financial (NASDAQ:SHFS) is expanding its partnership with Würk—the leading Human Capital Management firm in the cannabis space. Through a mutual referral program, the two companies aim to bridge the gap between workforce management and financial services, addressing the industry's persistent challenge of accessing compliant banking solutions.

International Developments

Overseas, France has finally unveiled its full medical cannabis blueprint after a four‑year campaign. The new framework, which includes provisions for single‑use cannabis flower dosages to be consumed via CE‑certified dry herb vaporisation devices, represents a significant step forward for one of Europe's largest medical cannabis markets.

CEO Benjamin Alexandre‑Jeanroy of Augur Associates explained, "We're just waiting for what I call ‘bureaucratic suspense' to finalise and then the government will sign the decrees once they've been signed off by the EU." The framework also extends patient access until at least March 31, 2026.

Cannabis Accessories And Infused Products

In product innovation, Weedgets announced that its award‑winning Maze‑X and X5 One‑Hitter pipes are now available across Canada. CEO Michael Barenboym stated, "We’re thrilled to bring the Maze‑X and X5 pipes to Canada. Canada's market is the perfect fit for our award‑winning hardware."

In Michigan, Gelato Canna Co. launched its elevated cannabis‑infused confections—Dubai Bites and High From Dubai Chocolate Bar—which offer a unique twist on traditional treats. Both products retail for approximately $25 and are timed perfectly for 4/20 and Easter.

Finally, Wynk expanded its beverage portfolio with the launch of new 10mg THC Lemonade Seltzers, available in Lemonade, Strawberry Lemonade and Raspberry Lemonade. CEO Angus Rittenburg explained, "We created our 10mg Lemonade Seltzers to meet the growing demand for higher‑dose options—without losing what makes Wynk special." The seltzers are now available online in 37 states and at retail locations across 18 states.

UFA Partnership With Trulieve

In sports and wellness news, the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) has named Trulieve an official partner for 2025. This marks one of the first partnerships between a professional team sports league in North America and a multi‑state cannabis operator. League CEO and Commissioner Tim DeByl stated, "The world of health and wellness for athletes has evolved and Trulieve has become a leader in enhancing lives through cannabis." The partnership will see Trulieve's brand featured throughout the UFA season, including digital content and in‑venue education.

See You Next Week

From strategic acquisitions and robust financial results to innovative product launches and pivotal regulatory shifts, this week has encapsulated the dynamism and complexity of the cannabis industry. With major players repositioning themselves and new consumer products making their debut, the sector continues to evolve at a rapid pace.

As legal and policy debates persist alongside expanding market opportunities both domestically and internationally, the industry remains poised for further transformation. We'll continue to monitor these dynamic trends and keep you updated.

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See you next week!