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Halloween is prime spooky season, but for most investors, all of 2022 has been quite scary. Stocks across the board have taken substantial hits this year, with cannabis particularly affected.

Cannabis&#39; surging pandemic performances have been dashed mostly. Now, Fed uncertainty looms while profitability continues to elude most operators, from MSOs to the ancillary market.

Mostly Tricks, Few Treats For Pot Stocks in 2022

Education

General

CNBS

THCX

From Israel to Panama to Los Angeles, we explore the science of cannabis and sex, and some of its products

Mother Nature&#39;s Little Blue Pill? Weed And Sex, What You Need To Know

Does cannabis use lead to more drinking, or to less? 

The answer to that question has been as elusive as the chicken or the egg quandary. 

Weed vs. Booze: Which Way Is Consumption Going?

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38327580/exclusive-kind-founders-reveal-how-theyre-building-a-better-web3-for-creators-gamers-and-c">Kind</a>, the innovative Web3 creators agency known for enhancing the digital experiences of creators and gamers, recently hosted one of the largest online parties in&nbsp;history.&nbsp;This <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/02/37252915/exclusive-pixels-web3-gaming-revolution-luke-barwikowski-tells-all">monumental event on </a><a href="http://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/02/37252915/exclusive-pixels-web3-gaming-revolution-luke-barwikowski-tells-all">Pixels</a> attracted up to 126,000 players, witnessed by over 2,500 viewers on Twitch, and connected more than 100 key opinion leaders (KOLs) simultaneously.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">126K USERS SHOWED UP TO THE <a href="https://twitter.com/Kind_HQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Kind_HQ</a> ENERGY PARTY LETS GOOOOOO
&mdash; heidi (@heidichristne) <a href="https://twitter.com/heidichristne/status/1781350014046101662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>See also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38327580/exclusive-kind-founders-reveal-how-theyre-building-a-better-web3-for-creators-gamers-and-c">&nbsp;Kind Founders Reveal How They&#39;re Building A Better Web3 For Creators, Gamers And Communities</a>
The party wasn&#39;t just about breaking records; it was a showcase of community and technology. Attendees enjoyed a slew of rewards, including Pixels tokens, TEK Guild memberships, and VIP in-game passes, enhancing their interactive experience.
This event marks a significant milestone in the Web3 community, demonstrating Kind&rsquo;s commitment to building a more engaging and rewarding platform for creators and gamers alike. As Web3 continues to evolve, Kind is at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of what&#39;s possible in virtual spaces.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/02/37252915/exclusive-pixels-web3-gaming-revolution-luke-barwikowski-tells-all" target="_blank">EXCLUSIVE: Pixels&#39; Web3 Gaming Revolution - Luke Barwikowski Tells All</a>
Image: Jose Rodrigo Safdiye

Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

Gaming

$PIXEL

Kind Hosts Massive 126K-Attendee Web3 Online Party In Pixels

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a new investigation into Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)&#8217;s handling of a December recall that affected 2 million vehicles that are equipped <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tesla-autopilot">with the Autopilot software.</a>
The recall involves all Tesla models, including Model Y, X, S, 3, and Cybertruck, and was intended to enact additional safeguards on the Autopilot system following a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/23/12/36255070/teslas-autopilot-recall-what-went-wrong-with-the-self-driving-dream">series of concerning crashes. </a>
Yet with the NHTSA receiving reports of 20 crashes involving the vehicles post-update, the effectiveness of these measures is now under review, Reuters reported Friday. 
The new investigation adds to the regulatory scrutiny of Autopilot at a time when CEO Elon Musk is pushing for full self- driving, as Tesla is offering a month of free trials and plans to unveil <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38396288/teslas-robotaxi-to-be-called-cybercab-elon-musk-says-self-driving-fleet-will-be-like-combination-of">its Robotaxi on Aug. 8.</a>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Regulatory Focus On Autopilot&#8217;s Safety Record</h4>
The latest NHTSA report highlights that despite the recall, new incidents involving Autopilot have surfaced, including several crashes. 
The regulator&#8217;s Office of Defects Investigation has noted these occurrences and has performed preliminary tests on vehicles that received the updated software.
The ongoing safety evaluation highlights a significant disconnect between user expectations of Autopilot's capabilities and its actual functionality, according to the regulatory agency. This &#8220;critical safety gap&#8221; has reportedly led to misuse by drivers, resulting in avoidable accidents. 
The agency criticized Tesla for using the term &#8220;Autopilot,&#8221; suggesting it &#8220;may lead drivers to believe that the automation has greater capabilities than it does and invite drivers to overly trust the automation.&#8221;
NHTSA&#8217;s findings suggest the updated Autopilot software still allows users to revert to previous settings, potentially undermining safety enhancements. Tesla did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters, the news agency reported. 
In its report, the NHTSA said Tesla&#8217;s approach to Autopilot functionality is markedly different from other auto manufacturers. 
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Concerns Over Data Gaps, Crash Reporting</h4>
NHTSA has also raised concerns regarding the completeness of Tesla&#8217;s crash data reporting. 
The agency pointed out that Tesla's data collection primarily captures incidents where airbags are deployed, representing a fraction of all Autopilot-related crashes. 
This creates a substantial gap in understanding the full extent of issues associated with Autopilot use, the agency said. 
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Calls For Stricter Regulation</h4>
This renewed probe by NHTSA is part of a series of investigations by various government agencies into Tesla&#8217;s Autopilot. 
The Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission are also examining claims that Tesla may have misled consumers and investors about the capabilities of Autopilot, potentially overstating its effectiveness.
Market Reactions
Tesla shares dropped by 1.7% on Friday, yet they have climbed more than 13.7% over the week, representing the strongest weekly gain for the stock in almost a year.
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/earnings-beats/24/04/38467013/tech-stocks-rebound-as-magnificent-7-roar-on-strong-earnings-energy-giants-tumble-wh">Tech Stocks Rebound As Magnificent 7 Roar On Strong Earnings, Energy Giants Tumble: What&#8217;s Driving Markets Friday?</a>
Photo courtesy of Tesla.

Equities

Large Cap

Tech

TSLA

Auto Watchdog Intensifies Probe Into Tesla's Autopilot Recall As Safety Concerns Mount

James M. Fejes Jr., owner of Flying High Investments LLC, faces the loss of his pilot license after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/cannabis-legalization">transporting cannabis within Alaska</a>. 
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revoked his certificate despite Fejes&#8217;s argument that since cannabis is legal in Alaska, its transportation should be legal as well.
The trouble began when the FAA discovered that Fejes was using his private plane for cannabis distribution following a report from the state&#8217;s Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office. 
For starters, Fejes allegedly violated tracking requirements. While cultivation facilities must adhere to strict protocols, known as seed-to-sale tracking, Fejes misrepresented his transport methods, triggering the investigation.
Alaska, which has a land area of&nbsp;570,865.8 square miles&nbsp;and a water area of 94,722.2 square miles, is the largest US state by area. Small planes are essential for transporting supplies, food and people to hard-to-reach places across Alaska.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pilot&#8217;s Appeal Falls On Deaf Ears</h2>
Fejes appealed to multiple bodies, including an administrative law judge and the National Transportation Safety Board, but was unsuccessful. His final appeal to the 9th Circuit challenged the FAA&#8217;s jurisdiction, arguing the transportation occurred solely within the state of Alaska. However, the court disagreed, asserting that Congress&#8217;s authority over interstate commerce extends to airspace regulation.
Fejes also claimed that because Alaska hadn't convicted him of any wrongdoing, the FAA had no right to revoke his license based on punishable actions. The 9th Circuit rejected Fejes&#8217;s arguments of misinterpreted law and overstepped authority and upheld the FAA&#8217;s decision.
The three-judge panel found that the Alaska law legalizing marijuana distribution did not override federal law that criminalizes the action.
"Although many states have legalized recreational marijuana, it continues to be a controlled substance federally," wrote Judge Ryan D. Nelson, one of the judges on the 9th Circuit, <a href="https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/crime-courts/2024/04/25/pilot-cant-fly-marijuana-to-retail-stores-in-alaska-even-if-sales-are-legal-federal-judges-rule/">reported</a> Anchorage Daily News.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">It Could Be Worse</h2>
Even though the U.S. Department of Justice has directed prosecutors to exercise discretion in pursuing certain marijuana crimes in states where pot is legal, the opinion that "does not alter marijuana's status — it remains illegal under federal law."
The court opinion also ruled that even if Fejes' plane was only used within the state, it is considered an interstate form of transportation.
"Even if an airplane, like a car, is mainly used for intrastate activities, its operations could substantially impact interstate commerce," the panel found.
The FAA&#8217;s actions indicate a strict stance against such offenses, suggesting possible legal consequences for Fejes beyond having his license revoked. As a federal crime, distributing marijuana via aircraft, whether Fejes meant to break the law or not, could carry a sentence of at least one year.
Photo courtesy of Fly Around Alaska Flight School
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-sellers/24/04/38468155/trumps-stock-loss-means-millions-for-short-sellers-a-lot-of-his-businesses-go-belly-up-quickly">Trump&#8217;s Stock Loss Means Millions For Short Sellers &#8211; &#8216;A Lot Of His Businesses Go Belly Up, Quickly&#8217;</a>

Politics

Legal

Federal Court To Cannabis Pilot: No More Transporting Weed Around Alaska, FAA Revokes License Though Pot Is Legal There

<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Top Stories for April 26, 2024:</h1>
<ol>
<li>Anglo American (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAUKF#OTC">AAUKF</a>) rejected the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/04/38459129/anglo-american-rejects-bhps-highly-unattractive-bid-sets-proposal-deadline-for-may-22">$39-billion all-share takeover</a> bid from BHP Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BHP#NYSE">BHP</a>), calling it &#8220;highly unattractive&#8221; and undervalued.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
The offer included conditions like demerging Anglo American's stakes in Amplats and Kumba Iron Ore and Anglo&#8217;s board cited the bid as opportunistic, dilutive to shareholder value and risky.
Despite BHP claiming a 31% premium, Anglo emphasized the proposal underestimated the value of its significant copper holdings.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/24/04/38469869/elliott-managements-1b-anglo-american-stake-ups-ante-as-mining-megamerger-collapses">Elliott Management&#8217;s $1B Anglo American Stake Ups Ante As Mining Megamerger Collapses</a>
<ol start="2">
<li>Gatos Silver Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GATO#NYSE">GATO</a>) updated on its exploration at the Los Gatos district in Mexico, highlighting new mineral intercepts at the Cerro Los Gatos mine and appointing Chad Yuhasz as vice president. </li>
</ol>
CEO Dale Andres noted these findings will enhance the next resource estimate due in the third quarter of 2024.&nbsp;
Key intercepts included significant silver, zinc, lead, gold and copper grades.&nbsp;
The company is also preparing for expanded drilling in the second quarter of 2024 and has made progress in Greenfields exploration, with initial results showing potential deeper mineralization.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mining"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38435800/standard-lithium-activates-cutting-edge-plant-paves-way-for-cleaner-mining">Standard Lithium Activates Cutting-Edge Plant, Paves Way For Cleaner Mining</a>
<ol start="3">
<li>IperionX ADR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IPX#NASDAQ">IPX</a>) successfully installed its commercial-scale HAMR titanium furnace at its new Titanium Manufacturing Campus in Virginia.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
The furnace offers advantages like lower temperatures, higher efficiencies, shorter cycles and better product quality.&nbsp;
With the campus construction on schedule, the furnace commissioning is set for the second quarter of 2024, and production of titanium powder will start by mid-2024.&nbsp;
IperionX aims to develop a U.S. titanium supply chain using scrap and locally sourced minerals to produce high-performance titanium products more efficiently and with reduced environmental impact.
<ol start="4">
<li>Hycroft Mining Holding Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HYMC#NASDAQ">HYMC</a>) will be added to the Solactive Global Silver Miners Total Returns Index starting May 1, 2024.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
Companies eligible for the Silver Index must have significant operations in silver mining, with substantial current or anticipated future revenues from silver mining or closely related activities.
This inclusion recognizes Hycroft&#8217;s significant operations in silver mining and its recent high-grade silver discovery at Hycroft Mine, providing its investors with greater liquidity and trading flexibility.
Now Read:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38434933/nigeria-cracks-down-on-dormant-mining-titles-to-stop-license-racketeering">Nigeria Cracks Down On Dormant Mining Titles To Stop &#8216;License Racketeering&#8217;</a>
Benzinga Mining is the bridge between mining companies and retail investors. Reach out to <a href="mailto:licensing@benzinga.com">licensing@benzinga.com</a> to get connected with the Benzinga community! 
Photo: Shutterstock

Commodities

Global

AAUKF

GATO

Hycroft Mining Holding Corporation - Class A Common Stock

HYMC

Anglo American Rejects BHP Offer; Gatos Silver's Mineral Findings; IperionX Installs New Furnace And More: Friday's Top Mining Stories

Paul Rosenberg has been managing rapper Eminem for 27 years. Speaking at the <a href="http://benzinga.com/nfldraft/">Benzinga Sports Business Titans event</a>, Rosenberg shared how he initially met Eminem and the hurdles they overcame together on their path to success.
What Happened: Today, <a href="http://benzinga.com/topic/eminem">Eminem is one of the most successful</a> musicians on the planet. Without key individuals like Rosenberg and Dr. Dre, Eminem may have never succeeded in music.
In a story of perseverance, Rosenberg recalled his first interactions with the musician.
After a semi successful rap career, which included a deal with a local Detroit record label, Rosenberg was ready to go to law school at the age of 22 to become a music lawyer.
"I didn't want to be just a regular lawyer," Rosenberg told the live audience at Benzinga's Detroit headquarters at the Sports Business Titans event.
Rosenberg listened to rap music since he was 11 years old, which blossomed into rapping and later his music law aspirations.
While he was still connected to the local music scene, Rosenberg told musicians that he was going to be a music lawyer and could represent them in the future.
Local retail clothing store The Hip Hop Shop hosted open mics and rap battles that Rosenberg attended.
Detroit rapper Proof, who Rosenberg was going to represent as a lawyer, hosted battles and encouraged the future manager to stick around after battles and hear someone he thought was good and happened to be "a white boy."
Rosenberg said he remembers the "audition" like it was yesterday, with Eminem wearing an all-white tracksuit, appearing kinda scrubby looking and kinda pudgy.
"I thought he was really good."
Although, Rosenberg said it wasn't the best thing he had ever seen. Eminem's future manager later bought a $6 cassette from him a month or two later and said it was really good music, well-constructed, but wasn't there in terms of songs and deliveries.
"I'm interested, but I'm not like this is it."
Rosenberg received a call later on from a DJ at The Hip Hop Shop saying that he needed to hear Eminem's new music. That music was the bare bones of what would become "The Slim Shady LP."
"Then I was convinced."
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/23/11/35922646/eminem-joins-fortnites-big-bang-event-exclusive-slim-shady-skins-and-a-virtual-concert">Eminem Joins Fortnite&#8217;s Big Bang Event: Exclusive Slim Shady Skins, And A Virtual Concert?</a>
Lesson In Perseverance: Rosenberg himself being convinced in Eminem's music wasn't enough to turn the rapper into a success.
Rosenberg said his job was to find Eminem a record deal, but it didn't happen overnight.
"It wasn't a straight path, though. Nobody wanted to sign him," Rosenberg said.
Rosenberg said the landscape for hip hop was very different back then and being a white rapper was not seen as a favorable thing.
"I didn't give up."
Rosenberg said it just took the right someone hearing Eminem and helping him succeed.
"The someone was Dr. Dre."
Dr. Dre heard Eminem freestyle on the radio and also listened to a cassette later and knew it was the same talented musician he heard on the radio, which led to an eventual record deal with Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope Records.
"You shouldn't take no for an answer," Rosenberg said of his perseverance to get Eminem a deal.
Rosenberg said you hear this all the time, but it's so true.
Another important lesson shared with the live Benzinga audience was the 25+ year working relationship between Eminem and Rosenberg.
"I was very lucky that he's a loyal guy. Loyalty's very important."
Rosenberg added that loyalty is less and less valued by people today.
Rosenberg and Eminem were in Detroit for the 2024 NFL Draft, which included a food truck for the Mom's Spaghetti restaurant, which is based on a lyric in the rapper's song "Lose Yourself." The food truck also has official NFL licensed merchandise for sale during the draft in Detroit.
Eminem was one of the featured guests on stage during the 2024 NFL Draft alongside NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
"We know the commissioner now," Rosenberg said. "I call him Rog."
Rosenberg received the "Detroit Inspiration Award" from Benzinga during the Benzinga Sports Business Titans event.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/23/08/34080360/vivek-ramaswamys-shady-use-of-eminems-rap-draws-rebuke-from-marshall-mathers-himself">Vivek Ramaswamy&#8217;s &#8216;Shady&#8217; Use Of Eminem&#8217;s Rap Draws Rebuke — From Marshall Mathers Himself</a>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Benzinga Sports Business Titans: Unparalleled Athlete Access &amp; Insights Into Success" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/93htkUYdGNc?start=8962&#038;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
Photo by Dustin Blitchok.

Entertainment

EXCLUSIVE: Eminem's Manager Paul Rosenberg Shares His Story With Multiplatinum Rapper — 'Nobody Wanted To Sign Him, I Didn't Give Up'

Society Pass Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOPA#NASDAQ">SOPA</a>) ("SOPA" or the "Company"), Southeast Asia's (SEA) next generation, e-commerce ecosystem, today announced that the board approved a proposed 1-for-15 shares reverse split of its common stock (the "Reverse Split").&nbsp; &nbsp;
Beginning with the opening of trading on&nbsp;May 1, 2024, the Company's common stock will begin trading on a post-Reverse Split basis on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the same symbol "SOPA", but under a new CUSIP number of 83370P201. The objective of the Reverse Split is to enable the Company to regain compliance with Nasdaq Marketplace Rule 5550(a)(2) and maintain its listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market.
Upon the effectiveness of the Reverse Split, every fifteen issued and outstanding shares of common stock with a par value of&nbsp;US$0.0001&nbsp;each will automatically be consolidated into one issued and outstanding common stock with a par value of&nbsp;US$0.0001&nbsp;each. No fractional shares will be issued as a result of the Reverse Split. Instead, any fractional shares that would have resulted from the Reverse Split will be rounded up to the next whole number. The Reverse Split affects all shareholders uniformly and will not alter any shareholder's percentage interest in the Company's outstanding common stock, except for adjustments that may result from the treatment of fractional shares. The Reverse Split will also reduce the number of authorized shares by the same ratio as the Reverse Split. The Reverse Split was approved by the Company's board of directors. The Company has filed a certificate of change with the Secretary of State of Nevada.

Stock Split

SOPA

Society Pass Incorporated Announces 1-For-15 Reverse Stock Split, Will Begin At The Opening Of Trading On May 1, 2024

WIIM

AMC Entertainment shares are trading higher following a strong preliminary Q1 forecast.

Earnings

IONM

Assure Holdings Says Unaudited Financial Statements For Quarterly Periods Ended March 31 2023, June 30 2023 & Sept 30 2023 Should Not Be Relied Upon; Error Does Not Change Cash Position Of Co At End Of Non-Reliance Periods

<a href="https://news.bloomberglaw.com/daily-labor-report/lgbtq-health-care-bias-protections-gets-hhs-greenlight">https://news.bloomberglaw.com/daily-labor-report/lgbtq-health-care-bias-protections-gets-hhs-greenlight</a>
<ul>
<li>Health programs can't discriminate against LGBTQ patients</li>
<li>Rule follows US Supreme Court decision in Bostock</li>
</ul>
The Biden administration is bolstering civil rights protections for transgender and other LGBTQ people in a federal rule that could quickly face legal challenges.
The final rule (RIN <a href="https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-08711.pdf">0945-AA17</a>), announced Friday by the Department of Health and Human Services, reverses a Trump-era regulation and restores gender identity and sexual orientation discrimination protections under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act.
Section 1557 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability by entities that primarily provide health care and receive federal funding. It is enforced by the HHS Office for Civil Rights.
The new rule "means that Americans across the country now have a clear way to act on their rights against discrimination when they go to the doctor, talk with their health plan, or engage with health programs run by HHS," HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a statement.
The new rule comes as over 20 states have limited or banned gender-affirming care for children, according to <a href="https://www.aamc.org/news/states-are-banning-gender-affirming-care-minors-what-does-mean-patients-and-providers">KFF</a>. KFF also noted that over a dozen states are facing lawsuits over their youth gender affirming care policies.
The rule also follows the US Supreme Court's 2020 decision in <a href="https://www.bloomberglaw.com/public/document/BostockvClaytonCounty140SCt34204LEd2d11912019CourtOpinion?doc_id=XD099DOG000N">Bostock v. Clayton County</a>, in which the justices ruled that LGBTQ people are protected from discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
In light of Bostock, the Biden administration in 2021 announced it would interpret the word "sex" in the ACA to include gender identity.
Under the rule, the HHS will enforce its provisions for health insurance plans that do business through Medicare, Medicaid, or the Obamacare exchanges, including care provided under Medicare Part B, like that in a doctor's office.

Biotech

"LGBTQ Health Care Bias Protections Gets HHS Green Light; Health Programs Can't Discriminate Against LGBTQ Patients" - Bloomberg Law

First Cap (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FCAP#NASDAQ">FCAP</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.88 per share. This is a 22.81 percent decrease over earnings of $1.14 per share from the same period last year.

FCAP

First Cap Q1 EPS $0.88 Down From $1.14 YoY

Management

GOOG

GOOGL

Alphabet Inc Board Recommends Alphabet Shareholders To Vote Against Stockholder Proposal Regarding Ai Principles And Board Oversight

Offerings

TKO Group Files Prospectus Relates To Resale Of Up To 8.25M Shares Of Class A Common Stock By Selling Stockholders

Alphabet Inc CEO Sundar Pichai's 2023 Total Compensation Was $8.8M

Blizzard has <a href="https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/24072107">canceled</a> its annual fan convention, BlizzCon, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/04/38451061/microsoft-ceo-satya-nadella-highlights-record-breaking-gaming-performance-expansion-to-nintendo-sw">for 2024</a>.
The company cited &#8220;careful consideration over the last year&#8221; as the reason behind this decision. 
Instead of BlizzCon, Blizzard plans to host smaller events throughout the year and participate in other trade shows like Gamescom. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/04/38466580/microsoft-thanks-call-of-duty-candy-crush-for-sizzling-q3-gaming-results">Microsoft Thanks Call Of Duty, Candy Crush For Sizzling Q3 Gaming Results</a>
Despite this year&#8217;s cancellation, Blizzard reassures fans that BlizzCon will return in the future: &#8220;While we're approaching this year differently and as we have explored different event formats in the past, rest assured that we are just as excited as ever to bring BlizzCon back in future years,&#8221; the video game developer added.
The cancellation comes amidst a significant year for Blizzard, marked by Microsoft Corp&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) acquisition of the company for $68.7 billion, legal battles against the acquisition, and changes in the company&#8217;s leadership, including CEO Bobby Kotick&#8216;s departure after over 30 years.
BlizzCon has a history of cancellations. The most recent event to get nixed occurred in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event returned in an online format in 2021, but was canceled in 2022 due to workplace harassment lawsuits. 
An in-person event took place in 2023.
It&#8217;s worth noting that the cancellation of BlizzCon 2024 coincides with the demise of E3 and a struggling video game industry facing layoffs and financial challenges. 
Microsoft&#8217;s recent layoffs of 1,900 employees across Activision Blizzard and Xbox further underscore the industry&#8217;s difficulties.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/04/38342845/can-blizzard-keep-its-autonomy-post-microsoft-acquisition-no-one-asking-us-to-do-anything-says-wor">Can Blizzard Keep Its Autonomy Post-Microsoft Acquisition? &#8216;No One Asking Us To Do Anything,&#8217; Says World Of Warcraft Exec</a>
Image credits: <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/es/g/randymir">Randy Miramontez</a> on Shutterstock.

Events

MSFT

Why Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Killed Off Blizzcon 2024

Southwest Airlines Received Five -8 Aircraft Deliveries From Boeing In Q1 2024 And Retired Three 737-700 ("-700") Aircraft; As Result Of Boeing's Delivery Delays, Has Re-Planned Its Capacity & Delivery Expectations For Remainder Of This Year & Next

L3Harris CEO Chris Kubasik On 5% Workforce Cut, Says "Was Right Thing To Do For The Business"

CLVRW

Trading Halt: Halt status updated at 4:40:00 PM ET: Quotation Resumption: News and Resumption Times

ACHV

Achieve Life Sciences Files Prospectus Related To Offer & Sale From Time To Time Of Up To 13.1M Shares Of Common Stock, By Selling Stockholders

SQFT

Presidio Property Trust Inc Files For Mixed Shelf Offering Of Up To $50M

Business Outlook
The Company expects its total revenues to be in the range of RMB310 million to RMB320 million in the first quarter of 2024. This forecast reflects the Company's current and preliminary views on the market and operational conditions, which are subject to change and cannot be predicted with reasonable accuracy as of the date hereof. &nbsp;

Guidance

Scienjoy Holding Sees Q1 2024 Revenue RMB310 Million To RMB320 Million

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Although the cannabis market globally could have missed investors&rsquo; expectations, with stocks not living up to their hype, I believe that emerging cannabis markets hold much promise.&nbsp;



Many countries and U.S. states have recently legalized or decriminalized cannabis for medical or adult recreational use. This has opened up new consumer bases and allowed new businesses to enter the space. Compared to the more mature and saturated North American market, these emerging markets are still in the early stages of development.



I therefore believe that certain geographical regions will be accretive for investors to target that others, with these emerging cannabis markets surging ahead of others. These markets don&rsquo;t have the same amount of red tape to get through, and many already have established momentum in decriminalization or even being outright legalized altogether.



So here are three emerging cannabis markets for investors to explore.



<h2>Thailand</h2>



Recently, Thailand became the first Asian country to <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/01/10/asia/thailand-cannabis-reverse-proposed-laws-intl-hnk/index.html">decriminalize cannabis</a>, primarily for medical use. This has opened up new avenues for medical tourism. Thai entrepreneurs are now exploring ways to integrate cannabis into traditional Thai medical practices, wellness retreats and spa treatments.



It should be noted that although it is decriminalized for medical use, the new conservative Thai coalition government is moving ahead to ban it for recreational use. However, given Thailand&rsquo;s key destination for tourism and wellness in general, I expect that it will remain one of those key emerging cannabis markets for U.S. investors to keep their eyes on.



Investors could get exposure to the Thailand market and others on this list through an ETF such as the Amplify Alternative Harvest ETF (NYSEARCA:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/mj-stock-quote/">MJ</a>). This ETF focuses on the global cannabis industry, which implies exposure to Southeast Asia. It has an expense ratio of 0.78% along with a dividend yield of 4.56%.



<h2>Mexico&nbsp;</h2>



Mexico has been <a href="https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2024/02/02/mexico-dithers-on-legalizing-cannabis_6486517_4.html">moving towards legalizing cannabis fully</a> for a few years now. If legislation is passed, it could become one of the largest legal markets due to its population and tourism industry.



The potential economic impact of legalization is substantial. Estimates suggest that the legal cannabis market <a href="https://www.playadelcarmen.com/blog/legal-weed-in-mexico/">could generate billions in tax revenue</a> and create thousands of new jobs.



However, as the legislative process continues, the specifics of the regulations remain under discussion, with debates ongoing about public consumption rules, the scope of commercial licenses, and more.



For U.S. investors to take advantage of this shift in Mexico&rsquo;s stance on cannabis and other regions, one can <a href="https://horizonsetfs.com/ETF/hmmj/">invest in ETFs</a> such as the Horizons Marijuana Life Sciences Index ETF (OTCMKTS:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/hmlsf-stock-quote/">HMLSF</a>).



This ETF tracks the North American Marijuana Index, which is aimed to create a comprehensive basket of North American equities that have significant exposure to the global cannabis market.



<h2>Germany</h2>



Germany became the <a href="https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20240401-germany-gives-controversial-green-light-to-cannabis">largest EU nation</a> to legalize cannabis this month for recreational use for this month. Adults over 18 can now carry up to 25 grams of dried cannabis and grow up to three plants at home.



The market value for medical cannabis alone reached over &euro;73 million in 2018, and with the legalization of recreational use, the broader cannabis market&rsquo;s potential is even more promising&#8203;.



The German market <a href="https://thedalesreport.com/cannabis/german-cannabis-market-worth-4-6-billion-annually-according-to-dusseldorf-institute/">is projected to grow significantly</a>, with estimates suggesting it could be worth $4.6 billion annually.&nbsp; The legalization includes the establishment of cannabis clubs where up to 2.4 million euros turnover per club could be seen.



These factors then position Germany as one of those emerging cannabis markets for investors to keep their eyes on. Although a Germany-specific ETF has not yet been launched to cater to this regional demand, both the HMLSF and MJ ETFs give implied exposure through their international coverage, meaning that an investment in both could help lock in the upside from the cannabis market in germany.



On the date of publication, Matthew Farley did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com <a href="https://investorplace.com/corporate/investorplace-publishing-guidelines/">Publishing Guidelines</a>.
<div>Matthew started writing coverage of the financial markets during the crypto boom of 2017 and was also a team member of several fintech startups. He then started writing about Australian and U.S. equities for various publications. His work has appeared in MarketBeat, FXStreet, Cryptoslate, Seeking Alpha, and the New Scientist magazine, among others.</div><h3>More From InvestorPlace</h3>
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	The post <a href="https://investorplace.com/2024/04/budding-opportunities-3-emerging-cannabis-markets-to-explore/">Budding Opportunities: 3 Emerging Cannabis Markets to Explore </a> appeared first on <a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace</a>.

Budding Opportunities: 3 Emerging Cannabis Markets to Explore