💸 High Impact

Let’s Compare Substances

When it comes to substances that alter our physiology and psychology, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), alcohol, and nicotine are among the most widely used—and misused. Understanding their addictive properties, potential medical uses, and current regulatory status is crucial for both consumers and policymakers.

Addictive Properties

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), all three substances have addictive potential, but the degree and nature of addiction can vary.

• Nicotine: The CDC identifies nicotine as highly addictive, noting that about 34 million adults in the U.S. smoke cigarettes, with many finding it extremely difficult to quit. Nicotine stimulates the release of dopamine, reinforcing the behavior.

• Alcohol: The CDC reports that 14.5 million people aged 12 and older had Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in 2019. Alcohol affects various neurotransmitters, including GABA and dopamine, leading to dependence over time.

• THC: While THC is less addictive than nicotine and alcohol, the CDC states that about 1 in 10 marijuana users will become addicted, increasing to 1 in 6 for those who start before age 18. THC affects the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in mood and reward.

Medical Uses

Each substance has recognized medical applications, albeit to varying extents.

• Nicotine: While primarily known for its addictive properties, nicotine replacement therapies (patches, gums) are used to help people quit smoking by reducing withdrawal symptoms.

• Alcohol: Medical uses of alcohol are limited but include its use as an antiseptic and in certain pharmaceutical preparations.

• THC: THC has been acknowledged for its therapeutic potential. According to the CDC and other health agencies, THC can be used to manage chronic pain, nausea associated with chemotherapy, and muscle spasticity in conditions like multiple sclerosis.

Rescheduling of Marijuana

Marijuana's classification has been a contentious issue. Currently, it's a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, indicating a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, this classification is increasingly seen as outdated.

Recent developments suggest a shift in perspective. In 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommended rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III, acknowledging its medical potential and lower abuse risk compared to other Schedule I substances. This recommendation aligns with growing scientific evidence and public opinion supporting medical marijuana use.

Why Rescheduling is Overdue

The rescheduling is long overdue for several reasons:

1. Medical Evidence: Accumulating research supports marijuana's efficacy in treating various medical conditions, contradicting its Schedule I status.

2. Legal Discrepancies: As of 2023, 38 states have legalized medical marijuana, creating a conflict between state and federal laws.

3. Criminal Justice Impact: The current classification contributes to high incarceration rates for non-violent drug offenses, disproportionately affecting minority communities.

Understanding the addictive properties and medical uses of THC, alcohol, and nicotine highlights the need for informed policies. The potential rescheduling of marijuana reflects a necessary re-evaluation based on scientific evidence and societal changes. As we continue to learn more about these substances, aligning regulations with current knowledge is not just logical but essential.

📈 Dog Walkers

StateHouse Is In Trouble

Pelorus Fund REIT, LLC has filed a complaint in a California court seeking to place StateHouse Holdings Inc. (CSE: STHZ) (OTCQB: STHZF) into receivership after the company defaulted on four existing loans. Pelorus is requesting the immediate appointment of a receiver to take control of StateHouse's assets and operations. According to Pelorus CEO Dan Leimel, a court-appointed receivership would better position StateHouse to produce and deliver high-quality products for the benefit of employees, customers, business partners, and vendors.

Financially, StateHouse appears to be in a precarious position. Viridian Capital Advisors reports that the company has total debt of $122.79 million against tangible assets valued at $123.47 million. In a liquidation scenario, assets might be worth about 80% of their book value, or $98.78 million, suggesting creditors could recover up to 80 cents on the dollar. Viridian notes that StateHouse consistently ranks as one of the weakest credits in their analyses, making the potential recovery surprisingly generous.

Original Article GMR

The Ukraine Market Is Progressing Quickly

Ukrainian officials have approved a list of qualifying medical conditions under the country's new medical marijuana legalization law, marking a significant shift in Eastern Europe's cannabis landscape. This move not only modernizes Ukraine's healthcare options but also opens the door for investment opportunities in the burgeoning medical cannabis sector. For financial analysts, this development signals potential growth in pharmaceutical and biotech industries specializing in cannabis-based treatments. The government's focused approach on specific medical conditions suggests a regulated market, which could attract international investors seeking stable entry points into emerging markets. However, it's crucial to monitor how the regulatory framework unfolds and its impact on market accessibility and foreign investment. Ukraine's progressive stance may position it as a regional leader in medical cannabis, offering substantial growth prospects for investors willing to navigate this new terrain.

Full Story - MM

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📺 YouTube

Cannabis News: Is Weed Maps Going Down? | Trade to Black

What we covered:

✅ On our latest TDR Trade to Black podcast, coming up today at 11 AM EST here is what we will be covering

- The SEC announced that WM Technology (Nasdaq: MAPS), the parent company of Weedmaps, agreed to a $1.5 million fine for alleged wrongdoing. The former CEO and CFO each agreed to pay $175,000 in fines for issuing "misleading" user metrics after the company went public.

- Tim Walz, Democratic vice-presidential candidate, believes marijuana legalization should be left to individual states but added that electing more Democrats could facilitate federal reforms, including cannabis banking protections.

- Verano Holdings (OTC: VRNOF) is expanding in Arizona.