Capital Markets this Morning:

The futures are up this morning, here is what is in focus globally for stocks:

• Tesla stock struggles ahead of earnings, down 43% YTD amid global EV demand slump and pricing pressures.

• Nvidia rebounds slightly after a 10% drop; market watches Big Tech earnings for broader sector impact.

• Chinese EV price wars intensify, expected to deepen with supply glut, affecting global automakers.

• Apple's China smartphone sales fall 19.1% Q1 2024, losing ground to Huawei amidst competitive market.

• Global stocks stabilize with S&P 500 futures back over 5,000; eyes on US and Europe economic surveys.

Cannabis Capital Markets: Curaleaf Acquires Northern Green Canada for European Expansion

The TDR Takeaway:  During yesterday's TDR Livestream, CEO Matthew Darin explained the benefits and reasoning behind acquiring Northern Green Canada. Previously, we noted that Curaleaf held a first-mover advantage in Germany for US multi-state operators and is the most focused on European expansion. How will this acquisition help their earnings and facilitate their expansion in Europe? For additional details, visit the TDR website.

Cannabis Regulation: New Mexico Marijuana Seizures Highlight Federal-State Conflict

The TDR Takeaway:  I recall driving through New Mexico on Interstate 10 during the night. The highway was empty, and at a checkpoint, I was questioned about my U.S. citizenship. Fortunately, I was not transporting legal cannabis. In New Mexico, federal agents have been stopping vehicles legally carrying cannabis at the state level and seizing the products. Anthony Varrell detailed these events in yesterday's livestream on TDR Trade to Black. For more details, visit the TDR website! 

Cannabis Regulation: South Carolina Medical Cannabis Bill Ready for the House

The TDR Takeaway:  On February 13, 2024, the South Carolina Senate initially approved a bill to legalize medical marijuana, which was then sent to the House. After a period of stagnation, the bill is now making progress. Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who was on our TDR Livestream two weeks ago, showed her support for moving the bill forward. For more details, visit the TDR website! 

Cannabis Poll: Marijuana is Viewed as Safer than Alcohol

The TDR Takeaway:  As a parent, I discuss alcohol with my children without promoting or glorifying it, presenting both its advantages and disadvantages. I've noticed that the younger generation perceive alcohol as more negatively than cannabis, which they see as less risky. This view is shared broadly, as a recent poll shows that most Americans believe marijuana is safer than alcohol and tobacco. For more details, visit the TDR website! 

Psychedelic Regulation: DEA Approves Ayahuasca Import for Religious Use

The TDR Takeaway: The Church of the Eagle and Condor has successfully negotiated with the DEA to import ayahuasca, classified as a Schedule I narcotic, for religious purposes. This approval was granted without the need for legal action. Is this a potential shift in the DEA's view on psychedelic medicines? For more information, read about it on the TDR website!

Crypto: RFK Jr. Proposes Blockchain for U.S. Government Budget

The TDR Takeaway: Imagine if all citizens had full transparency into a company's finances at all times. This is the scenario RFK Jr. advocates for, proposing that the US government's entire budget and financial reporting be maintained on the blockchain, enabling real-time public access. Critics often point to the lack of transparency in digital currencies, yet this application of blockchain technology could greatly enhance transparency. Read about it on the TDR website!

AI: Is Adobe Firefly the New AI Image Leader?

The TDR Takeaway: Adobe's initial efforts in AI with Firefly were seen as lacking compared to competitors like MidJourney and OpenAI's DALL-E 3. However, the latest release of its third generation this week positions it as a leading force in the industry. What contributes to its impressive performance? Read about it on the TDR website!

Trade To Black l MSOS Monday - Did you miss it?

MSOS Monday, Matt Darin, CEO of Curaleaf (TSX:CURA, OTC:CURLF), will discuss the benefits of their acquisition of Northern Green Canada for their international strategy. Additionally, Dan Ahrens of AdvisorShares will share his observations on MSOS price movements and details from his discussions with industry leaders at last week's Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, as well as the recent unusual cannabis seizures in New Mexico. Here is the link!

A Day In the Life of Don Murphy - Released Today at 4PM EST

What is a typical day for cannabis lobbyist Don Murphy? Curious, we decided to film a day with him to provide our viewers with a behind-the-scenes glimpse of his routine in Washington, DC. View the video on YouTube!