• Netcoins will establish a node using LQwD’s Lightning Network PaaS, marking the first institutional grade lightning payment channel for BIGG and Netcoins
• Netcoins will serve as LQwD’s preferred liquidity provider for Coincurve.com, and the two affiliates will also provide the currency platform and Lightning Network with a suite of institutional/government grade compliance software – including BitRank(R) and QLUE(TM)
• Blockchain is expected to grow at a CAGR of 82.4% from 2021 to 2028, resulting in overall revenue of $394.6 billion by 2028, from $5.88 billion in 2021
• In the last 90 days, the Lightning Network has experienced explosive node growth, doubling and increasing BTC capacity by 51.74%

Accelerating the global megatrend of Bitcoin adoption through its proprietary Lightning Network, financial technology company LQwD FinTech (TSX.V: LQWD) (OTCQB: LQWDF) has announced that it has entered into a strategic services agreement with Netcoins, Inc., a leading Canadian crypto trading platform and a subsidiary of BIGG Digital Assets (CSE: BIGG) (https://ibn.fm/FjkTJ). LQwD provides a unique opportunity to participate in advanced technology within the financial market, the idea of Bitcoin as an asset, and the infrastructure that powers its layer-2 payment solution in the Lightning Network. Under the agreement, Netcoins will establish a node using LQwD’s Lightning Network Platform as a Service (“PaaS”) software. This will mark the first institutional grade lightning payment channel for BIGG and its subsidiary. In turn, Netcoins will serve as the preferred liquidity provider for LQwD’s virtual currency platform, Coincurve.com. BIGG’s Blockchain Intelligence Group and Netcoins’ affiliate will provide the currency platform and Lightning Network with a suite of institutional and governmental grade compliance software – including BitRank(R) and QLUE(TM). “We are grateful to have a strong relationship with Netcoins and Blockchain Intelligence Group as we expand our footprint in the rapidly emerging Bitcoin Lightning Network. LQwD can now leverage BitRank(R) and QLUE(TM) for our AML needs and route crypto purchases for Coincurve.com and additional platforms through Netcoins, Canada’s first publicly traded, licensed crypto trading platform,” LQwD CEO Shone Anstey said. “It also allows Netcoins to have an early mover advantage in the Canadian markets for handling instant deposits and withdrawals of Bitcoin via LQwD’s Bitcoin Lightning Network platform.” LQwD’s Lightning Network is a solution that provides mass scaling of Bitcoin for microtransactions worldwide, by providing significant improvements on transaction fees and settlement times. In the last 90 days, the Lightning Network has experienced explosive node growth, doubling and increasing the Lightning Network BTC capacity by 51.74%, amid enthusiasm over the potential incorporation of the Network with various popular platforms. Driven by the goal of building the Lightning Network to allow users to make instant, secure, and inexpensive payments anywhere in the world using Bitcoin, LQwD is working to revolutionize the global digital currency industry. This revolution is reinventing money and finance, giving individuals greater control over their financials. Now, users can save, earn, send, receive, and complete transactions any time – day or night – with minimal cost. The opportunities and the pace of this rapidly growing industry are only getting bigger as more industries and individuals are turning toward blockchain cryptocurrencies. Blockchain technology is subsequently expected to continue growing at a CAGR of 82.4% from 2021 to 2028. The market’s estimated value for 2021 is $5.88 billion and is projected to grow to $394.6 billion by 2028 (https://ibn.fm/H5BaG). This increase is expected due to the growing acceptance of blockchain technology for payment processing and issuance of digital currencies by financial institutions worldwide. Removing unnecessary intermediaries, blockchain technology decentralizes the industry and allows for better performance during transactions. For more information on LQwD and the Lightning Network, visit the company’s website at https://lqwdfintech.com. NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to LQWDF are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/LQWDF

• DigiMax’s CryptoHawk is an effective way for crypto traders to harness the power of AI
• CryptoHawk meets the needs of casual, serious and professional cryptocurrency traders
• CryptoHawk is a subscription offering of real-time predictions, trades and market depth for cryptocurrencies

In a world where artificial intelligence (“AI”) is now part of our lives, crypto trading is no exception. In fact, DigiMax Global (CSE: DIGI) (OTC: DBKSF) offers CryptoHawk, a subscription service capable of predicting cryptocurrency trends. Research shows that investors who use AI can improve their ability to generate alpha returns. In the U.S. stock market and other development financial markets, an estimated 70–80% of the overall trading-grade volume is generated through algorithmic trading. This algorithmic trading is now coming to crypto, and DigiMax’s CryptoHawk empowers traders to maximize their returns. As crypto traders navigate their way through the fast-moving and ever-changing world of the cryptocurrency ecosystem, they need assistance to overcome this turbulence. A hawk-eye sense is what they need to detect opportunities, and this is what CryptoHawk offers with its AI. Through CryptoHawk, traders can capture gains and take advantage of volatility while reducing risk. In short, DigiMax’s CryptoHawk empowers traders to engage in smarter crypto trading. CryptoHawk is unique among AI prediction systems on the market. Although it could be compared to algorithms used in highly profitable, high-frequency trading strategies used by hedge funds, it uses AI to detect patterns with neural network models. The service discovers key patterns, identifies new patterns and anomalies, and provides a variety of predictions. CryptoHawk observes, processes and correlates information from financial, structured to unstructured data using cognitive AI technologies. CryptoHawk offers a hawk-eye view relieving and detecting movements and sentiments anticipating cryptocurrency predictions. Subscribers have the insight to select entry and exit points using a variety of predictions for better investment strategies. CryptoHawk was hatched by expert data scientists and traders who have trained AI with human problem-solving skills to create a machine learning model that is resilient to change in the crypto ecosystem. With this backdrop, the service also provides vital notifications through email and text to alert investors about trend changes so they can make timely adjustments and decisions with confidence. The service is offered as a monthly subscription for casual, serious and professional cryptocurrency traders. Through its CryptoHawk solution, DigiMax is supporting its mission to empower investors to safely invest in cryptocurrencies by harnessing the power of artificial intelligence. The company is committed to unlocking the potential of disruptive technologies by providing advanced financial, predictive, and cryptocurrency solutions across various verticals. DigiMax reveals actionable predictive insight across the financial and human world. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.DigiMax-Global.com NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to DBKSF are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/DBKSF

• The company will remain a part of the Canadian Securities Exchange (VEGA), the US OTCQB market (PLTXF), and the Frankfurt Exchange (WNT1)
• The October 14 opening of XMarket, a brick-and-mortar store in Squamish, British Columbia, offered the community the opportunity to experience plant-based products, educational opportunities and partake in local business offerings
• Devoted to spreading awareness of plant-based living, PlantX offers consumers various educational resources such as a weekly podcast, a YouTube channel featuring recipe videos and the company’s Taste This! Series, and the company’s website blog

PlantX Life (CSE: VEGA) (Frankfurt: WNT1) (OTCQB: PLTXF) is on a mission to change how consumers define “plant-based” by bringing together community, lifestyle, and food. Focusing on e-commerce, PlantX’s core objective is to become the most trusted name for people living plant-based lifestyles. PlantX provides a multifaceted marketplace providing plant-based products and services for consumers. Common shares of PlantX are currently listed publicly on the Canadian Securities Exchange (under the ticker symbol ‘VEGA’), the U.S. OTCQB market (‘PLTXF’), and the Frankfurt Exchange (‘WNT1’). The company has announced that it has applied to list common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange and is currently awaiting approval (https://ibn.fm/J1dGf). The uplisting will mark an important milestone for PlantX, highlighting its position as a global leader in the plant-based industry. “This is a crucial step in our growth that will significantly increase our brand recognition and could lead us to enhanced trading activity. By listing on TSX (Toronto Stock Exchange), we seek to further enhance the company’s visibility and accessibility to domestic, international, and global investors,” PlantX CEO Lorne Rapkin said. PlantX has also announced the opening of its brick-and-mortar XMarket store in Squamish, British Columbia. The company held an event for the grand opening on October 14, 2021, celebrating the Squamish community and local plant-based brands (https://ibn.fm/gnAdS). The Grand Opening Barbeque was originally scheduled for May 2021, but due to COVID-related restrictions, PlantX had to delay the celebration. With the XMarket Grand Opening in the Squamish community, PlantX offered attendees the opportunity to participate in educational experiences, product tasting, promotional offers, prizes of plant-based items, and gain access to a storewide sale. Many plant-based businesses were also in attendance, including Truffula, Mogiana Coffee, Clover Tea, and Sea Cider. Businesses were able to further educate the community on the plant-based offerings available in the area. Guests enjoyed plant-based refreshments, including those provided by a leader in plant-based protein, Beyond Meat(R). “Beyond Meat is one of the plant-based pioneers continuing to catalyze the plant-based movement, and we’re thrilled to share their high-quality products with our Squamish community at the official launch of XMarket Squamish,” PlantX Founder Sean Dollinger said. Educating the public on how plant-based products and services can impact society is largely part of PlantX’s mission. The company works within the communities it serves to increase awareness and provide community members with the knowledge and education needed to understand the opportunities that exist within the plant-based market. PlantX offers consumers resources such as its weekly podcast, YouTube channel featuring recipe videos and the company’s Taste This! Series, and the company’s website blog. These are all unique opportunities for communities to learn more about plant-based living, services, and other opportunities that PlantX offers. For more information, visit the company’s websites at www.PlantX.com, www.PlantX.ca, and https://investor.plantx.com/ and view PlantX for Plant-Based Investors. NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to PLTXF are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/PLTXF

• Lexaria’s recent animal study on its patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology on nicotine absorption yielded ground-breaking results
• This study builds on an earlier 2018 study that demonstrated effective delivery of nicotine to the central nervous system in a rodent study
• The study’s success will serve as the foundation for a human trial that will compare the DehydraTECH-nicotine pouch performance to leading brands

Zacks Small Cap Research recently did a deep dive on Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX) and its contribution to alternative nicotine delivery. Its evaluation acknowledged that the global tobacco market is currently valued at $818 billion, mainly sustained by over 1.1 billion smokers. Smoking has been attributed to cancer, heart disease, stroke, and lung diseases, among other life-threatening conditions. In the United States alone, smoking is responsible for over 480,000 deaths every year and 8 million deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (“WHO”) (https://ibn.fm/Y1CL0). Zacks also noted that according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”), over 70% of U.S. smokers would like to quit. However, the nicotine replacement therapies (“NRT”) available in the market today, which include patches and gums, fail due to slow and low levels of nicotine delivered to the nicotine receptors in the brain, forcing affected persons to revert to smoking. Tobacco companies have had to grapple with this challenge, compounded by legislation such as classifying products with more than 4mg of nicotine per dose as prescription drugs, as is the case with Canada. According to Zacks, there has never been such an immense need for a practical option for nicotine delivery that can bypass the existing hurdles already put in place, and deliver sufficient nicotine to deter smoking. Lexaria has made a name for itself with its patented technology that improves the bioavailability of pharmaceuticals and therapeutics in part by bypassing first-pass-liver processing. Its subsidiary, Lexaria Nicotine Corp., has advanced its nicotine delivery research, building on its patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology. In a recent animal study highlighted by Zacks, NIC-A21-1, the company evaluated the improved methods of nicotine absorption as an alternative to combustible tobacco products in what was a very successful study. Lexaria began research on the technology back in 2018. The initial investigation demonstrated effective delivery of nicotine to the central nervous system (“CNS”) in a rodent study, with nicotine polacrilex achieving 195% greater delivery and four-fold more rapid delivery across the blood-brain barrier (“BBB”) compared with the control. Zacks pointed this out as one of Lexaria’s primary strengths and a critical step towards pushing DehydraTECH to market. Fast forward to 2021, and Lexaria, working together with an independent testing laboratory, conducted an additional study on canines. This analysis evaluated nicotine benzoate and polacrilex plasma levels in these animals comparing Lexaria’s recently developed, advanced DehydraTECH 2.0 nicotine formulation to concentration-matched controls. The study involved 40 anaesthetized male beagle dogs that were assessed, and blood samples were taken every few minutes over the course of two hours. In what Zacks also defined as another strength for Lexaria, the results from this study showed that the generic nicotine benzoate pouch required about 45 minutes to reach its peak delivery rate. In comparison, the DehydraTECH-nicotine benzoate pouch reached peak delivery rates at both 8 minutes and again at 30 minutes. It was further noted that in just 4 minutes after the pouch was placed in the mouth, the DehydraTECH-nicotine had reached a higher delivery level than the generic achieved at any point during the study. While announcing the results, Chris Bunka, the Chief Executive Officer of Lexaria, noted, “We are extremely pleased with the performance of our latest DehydraTECH-2.0 nicotine oral pouch formulations in this study. Our technology was ten to twenty times faster in delivering comparable levels of nicotine into bloodstream than the peak of the concentration-matched controls and went on to far exceed their total delivery, which should provide much greater consumer satisfaction” (https://ibn.fm/TSZqq). He further added, “Performance gains of this magnitude could be of great significance in enabling the oral pouch product category to offer improved nicotine satiety and effectiveness, with a goal of one day rendering pulmonary administration practices like smoking and vaping as obsolete.” Zacks acknowledges that the success of this study will serve as the foundation for a more extensive investigation among human volunteers. This human trial will compare the DehydraTECH-nicotine pouch performance to leading brands, including Zyn (a product from Swiss tobacco company, Swedish Match) and ON! (a product from Altria Group). The research, which is currently in the design phase, will be independently funded with existing capital, with the announcement of further details being made as they become available. Lexaria is optimistic that this human study will yield more positive findings to those evidenced in the previous 2018 animal study and align with the just-concluded dog study. With the nicotine oral pouch market ranked among the fastest-growing nicotine sectors globally, Lexaria believes that DehydraTECH is ideally suited and could revolutionize the nicotine industry as the first practical, reduced risk category to challenge smoking tobacco successfully. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.LexariaBioscience.com. NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to LEXX are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/LEXX

• Saxony’s Freiberg has a rich & storied mining history, dating back to 1168 AD, as depicted by a recent video from the Society of Economic Geologists (“SEG”) Student Chapter from the Freiberg University of Mining & Technology
• The region quickly became synonymous with mineral breakthroughs, including the discovery of novel chemical elements such as Germanium and Indium
• Excellon Resources has sought to revive the region’s rich mining traditions, acquiring interests in 34,150 hectares within the historically significant Silver City mineral field in Saxony, Germany

Silver mining has long been synonymous with Germany’s Saxony region. The first silver ore in the region was discovered as far back as 1168 AD, deep within the Erzebirge or ‘Ore’ Mountain range. Within four centuries, mining had transformed Saxony into one of Europe’s wealthiest kingdoms with the region attracting a range of craft specialists from across the European continent (https://ibn.fm/syjry). Today, set amidst nearly 2,000 kilometers of mine tunnels zigzagging though the porous stone beneath the town of Freiberg, Excellon Resources (NYSE American: EXN) (TSX: EXN) (FSE: E4X2) is actively working to reignite the region’s proud and storied mining history. The Society of Economic Geologists (“SEG”) Student Chapter from the Freiberg University of Mining & Technology recently released an overview of Freiberg’s proud mineral history – https://ibn.fm/7TlX4. Not solely constrained to silver ore production, Freiberg has also played host to a number of other momentous events – including the discovery of chemical elements Indium and Germanium by chemists Ferdinand Reich and Clemens Winkler, with both metals now playing a crucial part within the technology hardware supply chain. Alongside new research seeking to identify hydrothermal oil deposits as well as fresh studies into earth and material sciences, today the mining industry is quietly marking a comeback to the region’s Erzebirge mountains. In mid-2020, Excellon announced that it had entered into a research and development alliance with the Helmholtz Institute Freiberg (“HIF”). The company’s team seeks to apply modern exploration technology on the historically significant Silver City mineral field in Saxony, Germany. Excellon holds an option to acquire a 100% interest in the 16,500-hectare Bräunsdorf license on the Silver City Project from Globex Mining Enterprises, an area which has historically produced upwards of 180 million ounces (since the mid 16th century) of silver prior to the closure of the area’s legacy mining assets (https://ibn.fm/unysr). The company carried out initial drilling in 2020, with results confirming the presence of a high-grade, district-scale epithermal silver system over more than 12 kilometers of strike. The company subsequently shifted their focus towards defining wider zones of high grade mineralization (https://ibn.fm/oRWrn). Earlier this year, Excellon announced that following approval from the Saxon Mining Authority, the company has added three exploration licenses to the Silver City Project – namely, Frauenstein, Mohorn and Oderan, doubling the size of the project to 34,150 hectares (https://ibn.fm/5A0bx). “Over the past year, Saxony has become an important jurisdiction for Excellon,” stated Ben Pullinger, SVP Geology & Corporate Development for Excellon, in a news release disseminated earlier this year (https://ibn.fm/m0AAj). “We permitted the first drilling program for precious metals in modern times on the Bräunsdorf license, smoothly initiated the program, struck a major epithermal silver system over 12 kilometers, confirmed high-grade silver species and discovered high-grade silver veins. Based on our ongoing review of historical archives, we have added new licenses that cover additional areas of historical high-grade silver production with no modern exploration.” For more information, visit the company’s website at www.ExcellonResources.com. NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to EXN are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/EXN

• Green Thumb Industries is a cannabis cultivator, processor, and dispensary operator, with a growing base of operations nationwide that is founded on a vision of forming deep connections to the communities the company’s dispensaries serve
• Green Thumb is headquartered in Chicago and recently announced its 65th store, which will be its third retail outlet in New Jersey
• The company now operates in 14 states with 14 cannabis cultivation and manufacturing facilities
• Green Thumb’s Q2 filing reported an 85.4 percent YOY increase in revenues and its sixth consecutive quarter of positive cash flow from operations

Cannabis cultivator and retailer Green Thumb Industries (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), a company with a well-rounded suite of nationally branded products designed for safe, responsible adult use, is aggressively expanding its footprint. The company’s Q2 filing in August reported that revenues had risen 85.4 percent YOY to $221.9 million, a sequential increase of 14.1 percent, with its sixth consecutive quarter of positive cash flow from operations. Adjusted Operating EBITDA grew 11.1 percent sequentially and more than doubled from the same period last year to $79.3 million (https://ibn.fm/sZUbj). InvestorBrandNetwork (“IBN”) spoke with Green Thumb Board of Directors member Wendy Berger, who noted that Green Thumb recently announced its 65th retail location — its third in the state of New Jersey — and that the company currently has operations in 14 states, with 14 cultivation and manufacturing facilities. “Everybody knows it is still very difficult to raise money in this business, even for companies like Green Thumb. And without institutional investors, you really have to work harder to identify investors,” Berger told IBN. “We think we have done a great job of speaking a language that investors really can understand and telling the story of Green Thumb in a way that is financially responsible.” The company’s dispensaries operate under the trademarked brand Rise, distributing a portfolio of branded cannabis products including Beboe, Dogwalkers, Dr. Solomon’s, incredibles, Rhythm, and The Feel Collection. Green Thumb holds more than 30 additional licenses for future retail locations across its markets as it begins to seek out a larger clientele. “In the very early days, our strategy was, contrary to many of our competitors, we chose secondary and tertiary markets, and the advantage there was to be the only one,” Berger said. “In places like Erie, Pennsylvania, (we) left people scratching their heads saying, ‘Why wouldn’t they go to Philadelphia first?’ And when we looked around at Erie, we were the only dispensary within a 70-mile radius. We have always been a company that prides ourselves on being a part of a community and being deeply connected and involved in the community and that’s much easier to do and we can be more impactful when we are in smaller communities.” Green Thumb is now headquartered in Chicago, but began in a much smaller location about 30 miles to the northwest. “Our very first store ever was in a town called Mundelein, Illinois. Which I am guessing you have never heard of,” Berger told IBN. “It is one of the top performing stores in all of Illinois, and it is not in downtown Chicago. We have an incredibly loyal customer base. We are deeply entrenched in the community, and people keep coming back.” On October 16, Green Thumb hosted a grand reopening of its Rise Mundelein store, with the town’s mayor in attendance, celebrating the store’s expansion after six years in business. “Rise Mundelein has been an important part of the Green Thumb story since opening as Illinois’ first medical dispensary in 2015. On January 1, 2020, we were one of the first stores in the state to serve adult-use consumers,” Green Thumb Founder and CEO Ben Kovler stated in a news release about the event (https://ibn.fm/Jhk0H). “Americans are overwhelmingly choosing cannabis for well-being and we look forward to enhancing our patient and customer experience at Rise Mundelein for today and the future.” And Green Thumb is embracing the opportunity to provide education on the benefits of cannabis as the plant’s stigma begins to fade in society. “We want to be on the corner of Main and Main. We want to be more (of what) Starbucks wants to be,” Berger said. “I think that there is still often a sort of this dismissal that we (in the cannabis industry) are not sophisticated operators when in fact we really are, and the proof of that is that we are drawing people from other industries into this business who bring with them their expertise.” For more information, visit the company’s website at www.GTIGrows.com.

• Cannabis flower and derivatives producer Flora Growth Corp. is an established brand builder with a seed-to-supply pipeline of cannabis CPG products from Colombia to North America to Europe and many other destinations around the world
• Flora Growth’s commitment to its premium and mindful consumer packaged goods brand and product portfolio is now being enhanced with the company’s announcement it has opened a pharmaceutical division
• Flora Pharma will concentrate on identifying opportunities for novel treatments in specific medical conditions, using a cost-effective process for establishing drug product safety and efficacy, honoring FDA and NHS regulatory standards

Internationally focused cannabis cultivator and brand builder Flora Growth (NASDAQ: FLGC) has been establishing strategic partnerships, commercial relationships, and infrastructure as part of the company’s growing distribution channels and markets for its premium cannabis consumer packaged goods (“CPG”) products, and on Oct. 6 announced the next stage in its development with the creation of Flora Pharma and the execution of an agreement to begin scientific clinical trials globally. Flora Pharma will spearhead Flora Growth’s efforts to run clinical trials and develop therapies for specific disease states and conditions by identifying opportunities within the cannabis industry where “scientific gaps” have yet to respond to those conditions. In tandem with a team of artificial intelligence and machine learning experts, the group will develop a proprietary drug development platform to identify bioactive compounds within the cannabis plant that interact with certain gene targets responsible for specific disease states and conditions, and then launch cost-effective studies in collaboration with academic institutions to comply with the traditional pharmaceutical regulatory route to proving safety and efficacy. The Oct. 6 news release noted that Flora Growth has signed an agreement to begin scientific clinical trials on the use of cannabinoids to treat fibromyalgia and chronic pain, with the primary research sites for the global effort located in the United States and the United Kingdom (https://ibn.fm/wnC6O). The announcement also noted that Flora Pharma expects to fast-track traditional FDA and NHS timelines by running phase trials in parallel (in vitro, in vivo, pilot in human, safety/efficacy, etc.), and specified that the Human Pilot Study will be run in coordination with an internationally recognized clinical research group based at the University of Manchester. “Our team is incredibly excited to announce our entry into cannabinoid science,” President and CEO Luis Merchan stated. “Since our inception, the Flora team has successfully navigated significant barriers to enable the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of cannabis products in Colombia. Commercial harvests are well underway and it is now that we’re able to turn our attention to what we believe is the long-term future of our industry and to hedge ourselves further against the commoditization of raw cannabis materials.” The company’s aim is to create novel downstream prescription cannabinoid-based medicines as well as nutraceutical cannabis products, thereby diversifying Flora Growth’s revenue streams while using high margins and low debt to create sustainable, long-term growth. The company recently announced that it achieved $2.1 million in revenues for the first half of the year through June 30 (https://ibn.fm/71QUR). Flora Growth has developed its cultivation and processing infrastructure in the favorable Colombian market, including a vertically integrated footprint in a region known for its high-quality agricultural goods, an incredibly skilled labor force, and their team’s innate ability to produce premium cannabis with what the company believes is the lowest cost in the global market at $0.06/gram and 60% lower than its nearest Colombian peer. In July, President Ivan Duque solidified the country’s drive toward international cannabis trade by progressing from medicated oil and extract exports to fully lifting a ban on cannabis exports for cannabis used in food, beverage, cosmetics, and textiles markets, as well as pharmaceuticals (https://ibn.fm/Py6d9). With an expanding international distribution pipeline and more governments around the world wanting to regulate and participate in the global cannabis market, Flora has plans for its products to find their way all around the world. As a result of Colombia’s northern neighbor Panama recently passing legislation legalizing medical cannabis (https://ibn.fm/8JGxv), Flora most recently announced that it executed an agreement with Panamanian importer and distributor Robust Farms Inc. to supply its premium cannabidiol (“CBD”)-derivative products (https://ibn.fm/30azl). “While Flora is focused on its cannabis cultivation and processing operations in Colombia, as well as utilizing those raw materials throughout its premium and mindful global cannabis consumer packaged goods brand and product portfolio, the management team and board of directors has acknowledged and is committed to moving ahead with applied research initiatives in medical cannabis, forming Flora Pharma, in order to become a leader in the discovery, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of novel, phytocannabinoid-based prescription medicines and nutraceutical products to address a broad range of diseases,” the Oct. 6 news release states. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.FloraGrowth.ca. NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to FLGC are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/FLGC

• The 2018 U.S. Farm Bill removed “hemp” from the definition of cannabis but did not allow for inclusion of cannabidiol (“CBD”) in food or supplements
• Regulations will remain in terms of labeling and serving size, and they will be determined by CDPH (California Department of Public Health)
• Green Hygienics exclusively works with industrial hemp and stands to benefit from the signing of AB45 in California

The Farm Bill of 2018 was a game-changer in the hemp industry. Signed into law in December 2018, the Farm Bill removed “hemp” (Cannabis sativa L) and its derivatives comprised of a low concentration (less than 0.3%) of the psychoactive 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”) compound from the Controlled Substances Act definition of cannabis. Within the bill, the FDA preserved authoritative rights over hemp products (https://ibn.fm/5Zy7w). Therefore, all hemp products must meet any applicable FDA requirements or standards – much like any other product sold legally on the market. Assembly Bill 45 and Its Provisions Recently, more than three years after this ruling, Assembly Bill 45 (AB45) was signed by Governor Gavin Newsome, allowing for hemp-derived cannabinoids, extracts, and derivatives, in food and dietary supplements. However, AB45 does not come without restrictions (https://ibn.fm/wQL1d). The legislation comes only weeks after the FDA denied two New Dietary Ingredient applications filed by well-known CBD brands. There is currently no guidance for the serving size, which CDPH will address. Key provisions of the bill include:

• The food, drink, supplement, etc., is not adulterated by including industrial hemp or its derived cannabinoids, derivatives, or extracts. Manufacturers must register with theCDPH, demonstrate the proper industrial hemp sourcing, and comply with good manufacturing practices. Industrial hemp may not be included in any product that contains alcohol, tobacco, or nicotine.
• The use of any cannabinoid known to exhibit intoxicating properties is prohibited. For example, under AB45, THC – including delta 9 and delta 8 derivatives – is strictly prohibited. The CDPH will have full discretion to include or exclude within the definition of any other cannabinoid (except CBD) that has been determined to cause intoxication.
• AB45 only focuses on the final extract, which cannot exceed 0.3% THC concentration – not acknowledging the Interim Final Rule of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) to classify any hemp extraction that exceeds the 0.3% rule as a Schedule 1 controlled substance.
• Inhalable products within the state lines are prohibited until the new tax on inhalable products is authorized.
• Hemp manufacturers must undergo rigorous testing requirements – including that the hemp must be tested by an independent third-party testing laboratory in raw extract final form. Testing requirements for contamination levels will be the same as the ones used for cannabis.
• AB45 prohibits labeling, advertising, and marketing any hemp product using a “health-related statement.” The packaging and labeling must include:
• A label, barcode, and an internet website or QR code that links to the certificate of analysis containing the product name, contact information, batch number, the concentration of cannabinoids, and the contaminant levels
• An expiration or “best by” date, if applicable
• A statement that indicates the product should be avoided by children, pregnant, or breastfeeding mothers unless discussed with a medical professional
• A statement that all cannabinoid products should be kept out of the reach of children
• The statement: THE FDA HAS NOT EVALUATED THIS PRODUCT FOR SAFETY OR EFFICACY

Companies that only grow and produce industrial hemp stand to benefit from Governor Newsome signing AB45. With a focus on the high standard cultivation and processing of industrial hemp, California-based Green Hygienics Holdings (OTCQB: GRYN) is one company expected to benefit from the new bill. The company grows its hemp in a controlled environment at its farm in California, which, with 824 acres and 392,000 square feet of greenhouse space, is the largest USDA Certified Organic hemp for CBD farm in North America. The company will soon manufacture pharmaceutical-grade bioactive cannabinoids and other active ingredients that can be used for multiple applications in various sectors such as the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and skincare industries. Green Hygienics is registered with the FDA and was granted USDA Organic Certification in 2020. Products available from the company are currently found in the US, and will be in international markets soon. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.GreenHygienics.com. NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to GRYN are available in the company’s newsroom at http://ibn.fm/GRYN

In Tuesday morning trading, the ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (NYSE: BITO) made its debut, marking a monumental occasion in the developing story of cryptocurrency regulation. The fund, which tracks CME bitcoin futures, or contracts speculating on the future prices of bitcoin, rose by roughly 3% early in the session and continues to hold those gains at time of publishing. The crypto sector as a whole has pursued a bitcoin-focused ETF for years now, with asset managers submitting proposals for spot bitcoin ETFs as early as 2017. To date, however, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission had consistently rejected these proposals, maintaining the stance that none of the applications were able to prove market resistance to manipulation. While the ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF falls short of the spot bitcoin ETF that many in the industry hope is on the horizon, experts agree that Tuesday’s opening stands as a turning point in the regulatory approach of the SEC. “Remember, there’s a difference between the cash ETF, obviously, and the ETF that everybody’s talking about right now. I have a preference for the cash ETF, but I love the fact that the SEC is allowing for the futures ETF,” Anthony Scaramucci, founder and managing partner of SkyBridge Capital, told CryptoCurrencyWire in an exclusive. “It’s just a sign that they’ve decided that they know the blockchain is going to be a very big component of the future of the financial services industry. I take this as a monumental decision…to allow the United States to stay the leader in financial services globally. I think it’s a very positive sign.” To stay up to date on the latest cryptocurrency news, signup for the CryptoCurrencyWire newsletter at www.CryptoCurrencyWire.com and for more on SkyBridge Capital & First Trust Skybridge Bitcoin Fund L.P. visit www.SkyBridgeBitcoin.com.

The USA CBD Expo Chicago aims to be the greatest and largest CBD/hemp event in the country, bringing the most creative and best goods and brands to businesses and consumers on a constant basis, and compressing a rapidly growing industry into one all-encompassing, top event. This event is geared toward both newbies to the CBD sector and seasoned veterans. The conference will feature some of the industry’s top experts, who will deliver a variety of instructional seminars, keynote talks, and workshops to attendees. The seminars will focus on the commercial side of the CBD and hemp industries, as well as current and future CBD market trends, health advantages, ongoing legalization initiatives, and medicinal use cases. CBD for sexual wellbeing, psychedelics education, the potency of medicinal mushroom extracts, and information about delta-8 and its legality are among the topics to be discussed. Why Attend the Expo? The windy city has a population of about 10 million people and receives over 58 million visitors each year. Many of them are attracted by the recent legalization of recreational cannabis, which has seen monthly retail sales of the substance surge to an estimated $40 million in income. You have an opportunity to attend the expo and educate yourself on the various aspects of the cannabis industry and how you could step in it. Seminars educating people on the various resources and methodologies about the wonder plant can help you as well! Key Convention Aspects:

• The USA CBD Expo, which is part of the country’s largest CBD event series, will cater to CBD industry novices as well as seasoned industry professionals.
• A series of keynote presentations and conversations will be offered by some of the industry’s greatest thinkers and innovators during the conference.
• The Expo will include over 500 of the industry’s largest and most innovative brands, all of which will present their different product lines under one roof.

The USA CBD Expo will feature a wide range of industry thought leaders, including Angela Ardolino of CBD Dog Health, Asa Waldstein of the Supplement Advisory Group, Angela Boyce of Primo Gardens, Jody McGinness of the Hemp Industries Association, and Jason Gann, star of Wilfred and representing Wilfred CBD, among a variety of other featured speakers. To know more about this event, visit https://usacbdexpo.com/chicago/.