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Tokenization could redefine institutional investing, but there are obstacles to adoption, according to Franklin Templeton‘s David Alderman.
During a panel discussion at Benzinga’s Future of Digital Assets Alderman joined Jennifer O'Rourke of DTCC Digital Assets to discuss the opportunities this technology presents, and the potential for a more connected market.
Alderman highlighted the growing interest in tokenized assets, which allow institutions to diversify portfolios and streamline transactions. "The tokenization that we've seen over the past year… is still very, very much in the early stages," he explained.
See Also: A New Era? How Tokenization Could ‘Reduce Frictions And Potentially Costs’ In Finance
Despite the challenges, Alderman emphasized that institutional investors are eager to engage. "Most institutional investors… would like just to have some sort of allocation to crypto," he said, explaining that tools such as index products could help investors achieve broader exposure to digital assets.
O'Rourke drew attention to a pressing issue in the digital asset space: fragmented liquidity. "What we're left with is essentially this federated system of a fragmented marketplace that needs to be connected with some standards or infrastructure," she said. She explained that These isolated liquidity pools limit the scalability of tokenized assets and hinder their use as investment tools.
She also discussed ongoing efforts by global organizations to address these inefficiencies. Projects from groups like the Bank for International Settlements aim to create a framework that could unify the digital market. She noted that the focus must remain on connecting these fragmented systems into cohesive networks to unlock their full potential.
Both panelists acknowledged the impact of regulatory ambiguity on altcoins and tokenized assets. Alderman noted that fear of classification as securities has prevented some projects from fully developing their utility. "A lot of crypto protocols… have been terrified to add utility or some sort of value accrual mechanism to their token," he said.
O'Rourke emphasized the importance of clarity, explaining that the current environment requires companies to innovate while managing uncertainty. "The work that we're doing today prepares us to be able to execute as those considerations fall into place," she said.
Despite current challenges, the panelists expressed optimism about the path forward. O'Rourke highlighted the importance of long-term planning, urging the industry to build solutions with an eye on scalability. "What you're building today should have some path to a future scaled utilization," she explained.
As tokenization matures and altcoins gain traction, institutional investors will likely find new opportunities to diversify and enhance their portfolios. However, achieving these benefits will depend on overcoming market fragmentation, improving infrastructure, and navigating regulatory challenges. The panel provided a roadmap for addressing these obstacles, setting the stage for a future where digital assets are integral to institutional strategies.
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At the recent Benzinga Future of Digital Assets event, industry leaders tackled how stablecoins are reshaping finance, spurring adoption among institutional investors, and addressing operational hurdles in digital markets. The panel, moderated by BlackRock's Kyle Braden, featured Jennifer O'Rourke of DTCC Digital Assets, Chuck Mounts of S&P Global Ratings, and David Alderman of Franklin Templeton, who provided valuable perspectives.
Mounts described stablecoins as a critical link between traditional finance and the digital asset ecosystem.
"Stablecoins are… positioned to be the accelerant to the mass adoption for tradfi firms and crypto financial capabilities in the marketplace," he explained. Mounts shared how S&P Global's stablecoin stability assessment tool is helping institutions evaluate the risk of stablecoins losing their peg to fiat currencies, adding a layer of confidence for new entrants to the market.
Mounts emphasized the need for stablecoins to underpin the tokenization of real-world assets, citing the potential for increased liquidity and operational efficiency. "Policy formation is the single most important non-technology catalyst," he added, predicting that stablecoin legislation could be the first crypto-related law passed by the new Congress.
O'Rourke highlighted the practical challenges tied to stablecoin adoption, particularly regarding liquidity pools and settlement speed. She explained that tokenized assets offer fast and programmable transactions, but the supporting payment systems often lag.
"If you're going to buy a tokenized asset… you need to be able to pay for it as quickly as you want to receive it," O'Rourke stated. Addressing this disparity, she argued, is essential for widespread adoption.
O'Rourke also touched on the fragmented nature of liquidity in digital markets, where isolated pools make seamless transactions difficult. She stressed the importance of standardizing processes to connect these pools, paving the way for a more cohesive digital marketplace.
Alderman of Franklin Templeton pointed to recent shifts in U.S. regulation as promising for stablecoins and digital assets. "I think a lot of crypto companies that were thinking about leaving the U.S. will stay, just because now it's a more pro-crypto stance," he said.
Alderman added that regulatory clarity would encourage companies to invest in new technologies and infrastructure, further supporting the adoption of stablecoins.
Mounts agreed, describing the potential for stablecoin legislation to reduce uncertainty and enable financial institutions to participate more actively in the market. He also noted that stablecoins could play a role in dollarizing foreign economies, citing their use in markets like Argentina as an example.
As the discussion wrapped up, panelists agreed that while stablecoins present challenges, their potential to transform finance is undeniable. The ongoing work to address operational hurdles and regulatory ambiguity will lay the groundwork for broader adoption, making stablecoins a cornerstone of future financial systems.
From their use in tokenizing real-world assets to their potential impact on global markets, stablecoins are proving to be a driving force in bringing digital assets into the institutional fold.
Photo by Igor Faun on Shutterstock
If you're a cannabis industry worker or employer, you might not be thinking much about retirement plans, but that could and perhaps should change.
We sat down with Tyler Priest, chief revenue officer at Green Leaf Business Solutions, to explore the relevance of 401(k) plans for the cannabis industry.
Why? Because Green Leaf just launched GreenPath 401(k), which is a significant development for the legal cannabis industry and may help reshape the conversation around retirement planning.
As many US workers lucky enough to have one may already know, a 401(k) is a retirement savings plan offered by employers that allows workers to invest a portion of their paycheck to fund their retirements, often with tax advantages and a matching contribution from their employer. For workers, it's a tool for building long-term financial security.
Priest explained how such a retirement plan can be made available to cannabis industry workers.
“We solved a series of challenges, starting with a legal structure that allowed institutional-grade 401(k) partners to be comfortable that cannabis businesses were operating within the federal and state guidelines set forth for them,” he told Benzinga.
Such plans were for the most part unavailable to cannabis employees due to regulatory difficulties, related to the way cannabis is regulated in the US.
“Retirement planning is important for everyone,” Priest said. “The cannabis industry shouldn't be an exception. Our mission with GreenPath 401(k) is to provide employees in this sector with a stable, reliable solution to prepare for their futures.”
Designing a 401(k) plan for the cannabis industry was not without challenges. Regulatory concerns, such as compliance with federal guidelines like Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCen), Anti-Money Laundering and the Office of Foreign Assets Control were significant hurdles.
Green Leaf Business Solutions addressed these issues by creating a robust legal and compliance framework, ensuring their plan meets federal and state requirements.
“We needed a structure that reassured institutional-grade 401(k) providers that cannabis businesses could operate within the rules,” said Priest. “This meant a meticulous compliance process and transparency at every step.”
GreenPath 401(k) is designed with cannabis employees in mind, offering the following features
These benefits are part of a broader effort to empower workers to take control of their financial futures. “It's not just about saving for retirement, it's about providing tools and knowledge to help workers manage their finances effectively,” Priest said.
Get Benzinga's exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter here. If you're serious about the business, you can't afford to miss out.
Employers also stand to gain. Offering a competitive 401(k) plan can help attract and retain talent in an increasingly competitive industry. The plans offer options for employer matching contributions that can make their workplaces more appealing.
Approximately 30,000 cannabis employees are enrolled in retirement plans like GreenPath 401(k), but there's room for growth in the nearly half-a-million-workers industry.
“Attracting national institutional partners with extensive expertise has lowered financial barriers,” Priest said. “This has made it easier for both small operators and multi-state enterprises to provide these essential benefits.”
He gives credit to industry leaders, including some of the largest multi-state operators that have already adopted the program.
Every 401(k) for the cannabis industry is a step toward normalizing and legitimizing the cannabis workforce, giving employees access to benefits that are standard in other industries.
“Most businesses don't realize that if they use a smaller provider with manual processes, the potential for plan failures can be high, and the cost to a business can be hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars in corrections,” noted Priest.
“We want to help employees and businesses in the cannabis industry thrive. This plan is one way we can contribute to that vision, ensuring workers have the tools they need to build a secure future.”
COVER: AI generated image
At the recent Benzinga Future of Digital Assets event, discussions centered on how blockchain technology is shaping new economic models.
Alex Salnikov, co-founder and chief strategy officer of Rarible, explored how wallets and digital identities redefine participation in the metaverse. In a panel discussion moderated by Money20/20 Amsterdam‘s Ian Horne, Salnikov delved into practical strategies and challenges for blockchain's adoption.
Salnikov wasted no time addressing what he called a widespread misunderstanding of the metaverse. Moving beyond the common association with game-like visuals and virtual spaces, he described it as an interconnected system rooted in financial infrastructure and digital identities. "Metaverse interface is not visual," he said, clarifying that tools like wallets serve as the core enablers of online identity.
See Also: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Dip As Investors Get Spooked By US Government’s $2B BTC Transfer
Salnikov pointed out that for users deeply engaged in the crypto economy, wallets become extensions of their personal identity. "I have my wallet that shows up to these events, and my wallet is me online," he explained, highlighting the need for accessible technology to support this shift.
According to Salnikov, mass adoption of NFTs and the metaverse hinges on addressing scalability challenges within blockchain infrastructure. He described wallets as the essential gateway for onboarding users into crypto and Web3 applications. "There is no NFT adoption without crypto adoption and without wallet adoption," he emphasized.
He noted that the industry is actively working to streamline the technology, aiming to make wallets more intuitive and secure. He linked the ability to onboard millions of users to achieving breakthroughs in scalability, stating, "Web3 is trying to solve the scalability issue that would lead to wallet adoption, that would lead to crypto adoption by millions of people."
The panel also explored how brands and businesses can meaningfully engage with the metaverse. Salnikov urged companies to collaborate with established Web3 platforms instead of building standalone ecosystems. "My advice for brands would be not to try to build their metaverses but to join the metaverse meaningfully," he said.
Salnikov shared examples of successful partnerships, such as Mattel's digital Hot Wheels sales and Lamborghini's NFT collaborations, illustrating how businesses can enter the space in a way that resonates with crypto-savvy audiences.
Reflecting on the lessons of previous market cycles, Salnikov acknowledged the issues caused by excessive speculation during the NFT boom. However, he expressed optimism about the current trajectory, driven by efforts to build a robust infrastructure and cultivate authentic communities.
With its emphasis on wallets and digital identity, the discussion provided a detailed roadmap for integrating blockchain technology into everyday life. Events like the Benzinga Future of Digital Assets continue to host conversations that drive blockchain adoption forward, offering fresh perspectives on how Web3 can redefine the digital economy.
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On Tuesday, Adial Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADIL) announced that patent number 12150931 was issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office on November 26, expanding the company's intellectual property coverage.
The patent covers a broader range of genotype combinations identified by the company's proprietary genetic diagnostic for targeted treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD) with AD04, the company's lead investigational new drug product.
These genotype combinations include the HTR3A, HTR3B, and SLC6A4 receptor sites, which are expected to play an important role in the company's precision medicine approach to treating addiction and may support the expansion of its pipeline.
"This patent significantly enhances our intellectual property portfolio, providing us with greater flexibility and protection as we advance AD04 toward commercialization," said Cary Claiborne, CEO of Adial Pharmaceuticals.
The company says it has expanded patent coverage for AD04, focusing on its use in personalized medicine. This new patent strengthens the company's strategy to protect AD04 for treating AUD by covering all genotype combinations identified in our clinical program, ensuring intellectual property protection through 2031.
In November, Adial Pharmaceuticals completed a pharmacokinetics (PK) study of AD04 for Alcohol Use Disorder in heavy drinking patients (defined as less than ten drinks/drinking day).
The results showed that, due to the lower dose, AD04 0.33mg delivered lower ondansetron PK exposure than the marketed reference standard ondansetron 4mg tablet; ondansetron pharmacokinetic exposure increased in proportion to dose across a 3–fold AD04 dose range; and AD04 could be taken in fed or fasted states.
Price Action: At last check on Tuesday, ADIL stock was down 0.93% at $1.06 during the premarket session.
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On Tuesday, Graphjet Technology (NASDAQ:GTI) announced that it has achieved breakthroughs in catalyzing graphitization to produce high-quality synthetic graphite with its patented green graphite production technology.
The company said its green graphite technology is the first in the world to produce artificial graphite directly from palm kernel shells, a widely available waste product in Malaysia and Indonesia.
Pilot-scale testing has demonstrated that Graphjet’s artificial graphite can achieve up to 99.99% purity levels.
Also Read: Biden Targets China With New Chip Restrictions, Nvidia Slides
In addition to the high purity levels achieved, Graphjet’s production technology boasts a 98.8% graphitization level.
The artificial graphite production process generally involves raw material mixing, molding, high-temperature and high-pressure graphitization, and modification of graphite characteristics.
A high graphitization level is key for the company’s green graphite technology. High graphitization demonstrates that the composition of the graphite lattice is highly organized and of a uniform crystal structure, which results in improved physical and chemical characteristics.
The company said graphite of this quality is a remarkable material for industries and applications such as lithium-ion batteries, thermal management, and graphite electrodes.
Third-party labs in China have validated the company’s technological achievements, the company said.
Higher graphitization levels signify a higher percentage of graphite crystal formation within a graphite sample. The graphitization level will depend on critical factors such as temperature, pressure, time, and graphitization gas.
Artificial graphite with favorable heat conductivity, stability, and chemical properties can be used to produce lithium-ion batteries, graphite electrodes, heat management, and high-performance porcelain industries.
The company said that Graphjet’s high-performance artificial graphite will enable the market to foster breakthrough technologies and new applications, thereby extending the range of applications.
Graphjet recently commissioned the world’s first and largest green graphite facility in Malaysia. The facility has an annual production capacity of up to 3,000 metric tons of battery-grade graphite. This production level supports battery production for approximately 40,000 electric vehicles annually.
The company said that per kg of graphite produced, Graphjet’s patented technology produces only 2.95 kg of CO2 emissions, compared to 16.8 kg and 17 kg from natural and synthetic graphite production in China.
Price Action: GTI stock closed lower by 6.69% at $2.51 on Monday.
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The expectations of a U.S. strategic Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) reserve have skyrocketed following Donald Trump's presidential victory, with the cryptocurrency sector firmly behind the ambitious idea.
Trump called for a strategic national Bitcoin stockpile at a conference earlier this year, while also advocating against selling state-owned Bitcoin stash.
While nothing concrete has come from Trump since this advocacy, his Republican colleagues, especially Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wy.), have proposed legislation, called the BITCOIN Act, to purchase one million Bitcoins over five years.
Individuals connected to the digital assets industry have given a thumbs up to the idea.
Joe McCann, founder and CEO of cryptocurrency hedge fund Asymmetric, told Benzinga that the move could position the U.S. as a "leader in crypto."
McCann said that if the reserve gains more buzz and moves closer to reality, it's likely to spur Bitcoin's increase significantly.
"The market is already somewhat anticipating the potential impact, but I don't think a lot of people have "priced in" the idea that if this were to actually pass [BITCOIN Act], other countries would also want to acquire a percentage of the total Bitcoin supply for their reserves, driving even more demand."
See Also: Michael Saylor Says Bitcoin Could Boost Microsoft’s Valuation By Nearly $5 Trillion And Add $584 To The Stock By 2034
However, critics like Peter Schiff have slammed the idea, predicting that such a move would end in the dollar’s devaluation and hyperinflation, as the government would have to print more money to buy more Bitcoin.
In defense, Lummis has maintained that the government won't have to spend "any new dollars" to fund the purchases. Instead, it could use the Federal Reserve-held gold certificates, currently valued at 1970s prices, update them to the fair market value, and then sell them to buy Bitcoin.
Another lesser-talked-about aspect of a potential reserve is whether it'd give the federal government supreme authority on holding Bitcoin, given the asset's limited supply. And whether, in an emergency situation, the government would enact something similar to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Executive Order 6102 of 1933, which required Americans to surrender a large portion of their gold holdings to the Federal Reserve.
"Bitcoin is an entirely different animal from gold. It is not tied to our monetary system like gold was in 1930," Neil Bergquist, CEO of Seattle-headquartered cryptocurrency exchange Coinme, said.
"Seizing an individual’s Bitcoin would be a logistically and legally complex operation since it is on a decentralized blockchain, and such confiscation actions would likely be determined illegal," he argued.
Denis Sklyarov, CEO and co-founder of decentralized physical infrastructure company WiFi Map, also agreed with the view that Bitcoin's digital, decentralized nature would make such an endeavor as difficult.
"Additionally, legal and cultural shifts in the U.S. over the past century emphasize financial freedom and personal property rights, making such a sweeping confiscation almost impossible under current laws," he added.
McCann took a middle ground, saying that the government would encourage people to sell Bitcoin voluntarily rather than forcing them to surrender.
"If the U.S. were to establish a strategic Bitcoin Reserve, it might use tax breaks or premium buy-back programs as carrots instead of sticks," he remarked.
Bettors on the popular prediction market platform Polymarket priced in a 29% possibility of Trump creating a Bitcoin reserve in the first 100 days of his presidency as of this writing.
Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was exchanging hands at $96,474.28, down 0.29% in the last 24 hours, according to data from Benzinga Pro.
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As the U.S. hemp industry moves beyond the CBD bubble that led many farmers and manufacturers into financial strain, hemp fiber production is emerging as a promising alternative.
While specialty crops often create market volatility due to their niche appeal, hemp fiber could provide a more stable option. It offers manufacturers a chance to diversify production, farmers an opportunity to rotate crops and consumers with eco-friendly products.
Dr. David Suchoff, assistant professor at North Carolina State University, is leading research focused on two key questions for hemp farmers: how harvest timing impacts fiber quality and how environmental factors influence production.
In an in-depth conversation with Benzinga Cannabis, Suchoff dove into the complexities of hemp fiber production and what's driving innovation in this relatively untapped market in the U.S. What could the future hold for hemp beyond its use in CBD? Let's find out.
Hemp fiber production is more complex than medicinal cannabis, as it requires the articulation of multiple industries and supply chains.
Unlike fruits or cannabinoid hemp, hemp fibers don't ripen on a set schedule. Harvesting too early results in underdeveloped fibers, while too late can make them harder to process. Thus Suchoff's research focuses on determining the optimal harvest timing for quality and yield.
"When we're growing hemp for fiber, we're targeting the stems, not the flowers," he explained. "Fiber hemp doesn't ripen like fruit. We don't harvest it based on when it's ‘ready' like we would with other crops. Instead, we aim to grow the plant tall, focusing on the stems, which is where the fibers are concentrated. As the plant flowers, its growth slows, so we typically harvest it around that time to ensure we're getting the maximum fiber yield without compromising quality. If we wait too long, the fibers become more difficult to process."
The research also examines genetics and geography. Varieties from China and Kentucky, are being tested in Montana and North Carolina, to understand how they respond to their growing environments.
Geographic location plays a key role in hemp fiber production. Suchoff’s team is conducting field trials across multiple locations, to assess how various climates affect fiber quality. The Southeast U.S. presents unique challenges, particularly due to the early flowering of hemp varieties bred for cooler climates in Europe and Canada.
"Some hemp varieties bred for European or Canadian climates don't produce enough biomass in our region because they flower too early," he said. By using varieties like those originating from China, which are better suited for warmer climates, they hope to determine how different environmental conditions affect fiber growth and quality.
Suchoff emphasizes the singularities of processing hemp fiber, particularly separating the fibers from the stalk. The retting process, which uses microbial action to break down the plant, is a crucial step that can be inefficient in cooler climates. This inefficiency can result in higher costs and lower-quality fiber.
"Processing hemp for textiles is more challenging compared to other materials," he explained. "But a huge market already exists in the nonwoven textile industry, including products like wipes and packaging materials."
While hemp fiber may not compete with high-end apparel textiles immediately, it is making a significant impact in more utilitarian products, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers.
Read Also: Billion-Dollar Strike: Farm Bill Amendment Could Change The Hemp Industry
While Suchoff does not expect hemp fiber to fully revive the traditional textile industry in the U.S., he believes it can contribute to its sustainability. The consumer demand for eco-friendly, sustainable clothing and packaging is growing, and hemp fibers offer a more natural, biodegradable option compared to synthetics. "Hemp might not replace cotton, but it's a valuable supplement."
Suchoff advises farmers to be cautious. While hemp is a relatively low-input crop, the industry is still in its early stages. He emphasizes that farmers should secure contracts before committing time and money to hemp farming. “I wouldn't advise farmers to invest unless they have a contract in hand. The demand is growing, but it's still slow," he warns.
The biggest hurdle for farmers in the southeast U.S. is the high cost of seed, particularly for varieties that are suited for their region. Suchoff is optimistic that within the next year, the cost of seeds will decrease thanks to ongoing research into developing more affordable, region-specific hemp varieties.
His team is breeding hemp varieties suited for warmer climates to help lower seed costs. "Right now, a lot of the seeds we use come from China, and they're expensive due to shipping and breeding limitations," Suchoff says. "But in the next year, we hope to have commercially available seeds that will lower production costs for farmers."
The process involves working with seed companies to breed and test varieties before they're made available to farmers.
Read Also: No Middleman, No Markup: How Red Mesa Is Slashing Costs With Around-The-Clock Hemp Refinement
While the U.S. does not yet have a national seed certification system for hemp, Suchoff notes that there's a movement toward creating one. The next Farm Bill includes language about setting up a certified seed program for hemp. In the meantime, patents are being issued for new hemp varieties and some states like North Carolina are working with breeders to ensure that quality, affordable hemp seeds are available to farmers.
Read Next: Pharma-Grade Cannabis Could Hit Walgreens & CVS—But Can The Industry Survive The FDA?
At Benzinga's recent Fintech Deal Day, Logan Weaver, founder and CEO of Surmount AI, shared how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming investment management and financial tools for consumers. His company is leveraging AI to simplify portfolio management for retail investors, a vision Weaver presented at the event, which brought together leaders in financial technology.
Surmount AI specializes in helping individual investors automate their existing portfolios using AI-driven, data-backed strategies. “If you look back 15 or 20 years, as opposed to what it is now… it’s starting to empower consumers,” Weaver said, highlighting how today's software tools simplify what used to be a cumbersome process.
Weaver described the event as the best he's attended this year, citing the quality of conversations with industry leaders, including representatives from NASDAQ and other firms. He explained that Surmount AI’s goal is to build relationships with key players, whether through partnerships or onboarding clients.
Discussing the evolution of AI in financial services, Weaver noted its potential to revolutionize portfolio and tax management. “In one year, we’re going to see a lot more adoption of AI [and machine learning] in investment management… I think in five years, 10 years, I think you’re just going to see that ramped up by, you know, a tune of, like, 1,000x,” he said.
Weaver emphasized that AI is rapidly catching up in finance, an industry that had been slower than others to embrace these technologies. As regulatory challenges begin to clear, companies like Surmount AI aim to take full advantage of AI's capabilities.
Weaver also highlighted the importance of collaboration within the financial technology community. Events like Benzinga's Fintech Deal Day provide opportunities for companies to connect, share ideas, and foster innovation across the industry. For Surmount AI, these connections represent pathways to grow its presence and impact in a fast-changing field.
Weaver's enthusiasm for the event was matched by his optimism about the future of AI in finance. As tools become increasingly sophisticated and accessible, the gap between complex financial management and the average investor is closing, empowering more people to take control of their investments.
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As discussions around Bitcoin's place in modern finance intensify, Anthony Pompliano, founder and CEO of Professional Capital Management, shared his perspective at the recent Benzinga Future of Digital Assets event.
Pompliano highlighted Bitcoin's shift from a niche commodity to a meaningful component of investment portfolios and examined its potential to reshape financial strategies for institutions and individuals alike.
Pompliano described Bitcoin's journey from a niche asset to an emerging portfolio component. "Bitcoin used to be 0%," he said. "Now I think it’s starting to crack into one or two percent for people. And we have nation-states, sovereign wealth funds, huge financial organizations, and public companies all starting to buy this."
He pointed out that the limited supply of Bitcoin could push its price higher as more entities incorporate it into their holdings. Over time, Pompliano predicts that Bitcoin's allocation in diversified portfolios might stabilize around 5%, which he believes would reflect broader acceptance of the cryptocurrency.
When discussing skeptics of digital assets, Pompliano emphasized the importance of framing the conversation around economic challenges. "I think that really what you want to do is just explain the problem," he said, citing issues such as increasing national debt and the Federal Reserve's efforts to manage inflation.
"If we all agree on the problem, what is your solution? And most people don't have a good solution," he explained, introducing Bitcoin as a potential answer. By focusing on shared financial concerns, Pompliano suggested skeptics may be more open to considering Bitcoin as a viable alternative.
Pompliano expressed optimism for financial markets, particularly for Bitcoin and related assets. He highlighted how political shifts could affect the economic landscape: “Donald Trump going back into the White House is going to be a tailwind for stocks, crypto, [and] many other assets."
As investors and institutions prepare for opportunities in 2025, Pompliano's remarks reflected the broader industry focus on Bitcoin's evolving role in modern finance. His comments at the event spotlighted the increasing interest in digital assets as part of long-term investment strategies.
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Each week, Benzinga's Stock Whisper Index uses a combination of proprietary data and pattern recognition to showcase five stocks that are just under the surface and deserve attention.
Investors are constantly on the hunt for undervalued, under-followed and emerging stocks. With countless methods available to retail traders, the challenge often lies in sifting through the abundance of information to uncover new opportunities and understand why certain stocks should be of interest.
Here’s a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending Nov. 29:
Simon Property Group (NYSE:SPG): The large real estate investment trust saw increased interest from readers during the week. This trend could point to optimism ahead of the 2024 holiday shopping season, which is expected to see records set for Black Friday.
With Thanksgiving falling later than normal, there are only 27 days from the day before Thanksgiving to Christmas Day. While this means fewer shopping weekends for retailers and malls, it could see a boost in traffic during the four main shopping holidays.
Analysts have been raising their price targets on the stock ahead of the holiday shopping season. Stifel raised their price target from $164.50 to $175.50 and Scotiabank raised their price target from $169 to $185. Recent guidance from the company was ahead of analyst estimates for the full fiscal year according to data from Benzinga Pro.
The chart below from Benzinga Pro shows the five-day trading range of Simon Property Group. The stock is up 28% year-to-date.
Allison Transmission Holdings (NYSE:ALSN): The automatic transmissions company saw increased interest from readers during the week. The company makes products mainly for the commercial vehicle sector, which could benefit from an industrial boom under President-elect Donald Trump.
The company's recent quarterly financial results continued a streak of beating analyst estimates. Allison Transmission has beaten earnings per share estimates in nine straight quarters and beat revenue estimates in four straight quarters and eight of the last nine quarters overall.
Citigroup recently maintained a Neutral rating on the stock and raised the price target from $115 to $125. The stock was up slightly over the past week and shares are up over 100% year-to-date in 2024.
Constellation Energy Corp (NASDAQ:CEG): The energy solutions company has appeared on multiple Stock Whisper Index lists throughout the year and makes it return thanks to increased interest in nuclear power generation.
The company is one of several energy companies betting on future nuclear energy that could benefit from a boom in big companies like Alphabet (Google), Amazon and Microsoft emphasizing nuclear power.
Goldman Sachs recently said the U.S. could be in the "early stages of nuclear renaissance." Constellation Energy was named in the analyst note, with the company's Three Mile Island plant being brought back online highlighted as the start of other similar moves.
"Recognition of accelerated power demand growth from utilities is leading to greater willingness to consider new large-scale reactors," Goldman Sachs said.
The company recently reported third-quarter financial results that saw revenue and earnings per share come in ahead of analyst estimates. Constellation Energy also raised full-year earnings per share estimates.
Constellation shares were up 2.2% over the past five days and shares are up over 120% year-to-date in 2024.
Ufp Industries Inc (NASDAQ:UFPI): The wooden pallet manufacturer and industrial packaging solutions company saw increased interest from readers during the week.
The company, which also supplies lumber to the manufacturer housing sector, recently announced the opening of a new 10,000-square-foot packaging design and development center at its Georgia facility. Ufp Industries said the new design center will offer new testing services to help its customers.
The stock could be one to watch with the new center potentially landing bigger deals and keeping customers. The company's ties to the manufactured home sector could also be on watch with the potential for the housing sector to be a theme going forward.
Intuit Inc (NASDAQ:INTU): The company, which owns TurboTax, QuickBooks and other financial products, saw increased interest from readers over the week.
Intuit recently reported first-quarter financial results, which saw revenue and earnings per share beat analyst estimates.
While the report beat estimates, investors are becoming concerned about how the company's tax business could be impacted by the new White House administration. The Department of Government Efficiency, led by Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk, is looking to create a mobile app for Americans to file their taxes. The move, which could see more Americans file their taxes directly, could cut down on dependance for tax software like TurboTax. Intuit shares could fall further as more details of the plan come out.
Intuit stock was down on the week and shares are up 6% year-to-date in 2024.
Stay tuned for next week's report, and follow Benzinga Pro for all the latest headlines and top market-moving stories here.
Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:
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XRPure's decontamination system offers a smart solution to microbial contamination that could save growers millions in lost revenue. This kind of efficiency is even more critical as rescheduling cannabis could bring pharma-grade products to shelves, requiring higher standards for nationwide distribution — a game-changer that would likely grab the attention of Shark Tank investors.
Like a fish in water, XRPure's system is designed to seamlessly integrate into the daily operations of cannabis businesses, maximizing both safety and profitability. Often companies producing over 10,000 pounds of dried cannabis annually, lose 15% of their crop yearly due to contamination, equating to $1.8 million in lost revenue. By adopting XRPure's technology, the same grower could recover up to $1.6 million annually — a return on investment (ROI) realized in just months.
“By reducing microbial contamination and product recalls, XRPure helps growers protect their profits,” says Jeff Adams, founder of XRPure, in an exclusive interview with Benzinga. “This technology pays for itself quickly, making it a crucial investment for anyone in the cannabis industry.”
Read Also: Your Next Nugs Could Be Irradiated With X-Rays…For Your Own Safety
XRPure's decontamination system, the XR16, processes up to 90 pounds of cannabis in an 8-hour shift, making it highly efficient for large-scale growers. The high-powered X-ray tube inside the system speeds up the delivery of the X-ray dose. The XR16 can process up to 150 pounds daily, cutting treatment times from hours to just 90 minutes or two hours per batch.
"By using the XR16, growers can scale quickly, processing large volumes of cannabis while ensuring safety and quality," says Adams. The system's ease of use and minimal labor requirements make it an ideal solution for both small and large-scale growers.
A standout feature of XRPure's system is its XReflect® technology, which improves decontamination efficiency. In traditional X-ray systems, energy is absorbed by the machine's walls after passing through the product. With XReflect®, part of the X-ray energy is reflected into the cannabis, increasing the treatment power and accelerating the decontamination process.
This innovation makes the treatment more efficient, reducing processing times. XRPure's technology is faster than traditional methods, such as microwave decontamination. According to Adams, unlike microwaves, which can overheat and damage terpenes and THC, XRPure's X-ray system operates at a shorter wavelength. This allows it to treat the product without generating heat, preserving the plant's quality.
"The ability to reflect X-ray energy into the product allows for faster, more effective decontamination without compromising the cannabis's integrity," says Adams.
Read Also: Want Organic Cannabis? Operators Are Turning To This Tech To Save Millions And Get Certified
Looking ahead, Adams sees XRPure's technology playing a key role in federally regulated cannabis markets. He envisions a broader opportunity in adapting XRPure's X-ray and possibly E-beam technology to larger, centralized facilities. This approach would be similar to those used in the food industry.
"If cannabis becomes federally legal, there will be a shift towards centralized processing facilities that utilize E-beam or gamma technology," says Adams. "XRPure's core X-ray technology will continue to play a role, but we could pivot into offering larger-scale solutions with E-beam technology in these facilities."
XRPure's partnership with Varex Imaging gives it a competitive edge. Varex's decades of experience and global network of engineers and technicians ensure XRPure's machines are supported worldwide.
"We leverage Varex's expertise and service infrastructure to ensure that our machines are always operating at peak efficiency," says Adams.
XRPure offers in-house leasing options, giving cannabis growers flexible financing plans. By handling the leasing process directly, XRPure helps businesses avoid third-party complications, making it easier for small to mid-sized operators to adopt the technology.
All equipment comes with a full 100% warranty, covering transportation, installation, and ongoing support to ensure the machines run smoothly throughout the lease.
Would XRPure survive the Shark Tank test? "For any cannabis grower, XRPure's system is cheap insurance against the risks of contamination and product recalls," Adams concluded. "It's an investment that pays for itself."
Read Next: X-Rays, Microwaves And Now What? This Company Freezes Weed At -320°F To Kill Mold And Save A Ton
As the formal review process for rescheduling cannabis unfolds, industry players are closely watching its potential to transform the sector. With the DEA hearing delayed until early 2025 and a possible Trump presidency adding uncertainty, cannabis businesses are preparing for what rescheduling to Schedule III could mean.
From FDA oversight to interstate commerce and pharmaceutical-grade standards, these changes could fundamentally reshape the landscape—and investors and businesses need to be ready.
Denise Pollicella, a cannabis attorney and head of Omnus Law‘s cannabis practice, points out that rescheduling cannabis isn't just about new retail partnerships but about overhauling how cannabis businesses operate.
"It's about transforming how cannabis businesses operate—adapting to FDA oversight, meeting pharmaceutical-grade standards, and navigating stricter compliance requirements," she told Benzinga Cannabis in an exclusive interview.
Rescheduling to Schedule III could allow major pharmaceutical retailers like CVS (NYSE:CVS) and Walgreens (NASDAQ:WBA) to carry cannabis. But is the pathway straightforward?
Pollicella anticipates a system similar to the 2018 hemp legalization framework, where states submit regulatory schemes to meet federal guidelines. "Most states prefer to regulate these things themselves, particularly from a financial and tax point of view," she said, noting states' interest in retaining control of fees and fines.
If cannabis becomes a pharmaceutical-grade product, compliance with FDA standards will significantly change how businesses operate. Pollicella explained that the cannabis industry has historically focused on ensuring safety and avoiding contaminants, with minimal emphasis on seed traceability. "Most of the testing and analysis has revolved around making sure that it's safe and doesn't have contaminants, and then around THC and CBD levels," she noted.
Pollicella added that transitioning to pharmaceutical-grade products would require stricter production standards and significantly more testing, which could drive up costs in an already expensive industry. Pollicella noted the likely challenges: "When it goes to a more pharmaceutical-grade product, not only will the production standards have to become more strict, but you'll also have significantly more testing."
Rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III could pave the way for interstate trade, a shift that would fundamentally reshape supply chains and market dynamics. By lowering cannabis’s federal regulatory classification, rescheduling would enable cannabis to be treated more like other pharmaceutical products, potentially allowing producers in one state to sell to buyers in another. However, this transition would introduce new regulatory complexities.
Pollicella thinks that cannabis crossing state lines will require permissions, excise taxes, and strict identification as medical marijuana, and noted that states with mature medical markets, such as Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Florida, could dominate the wholesale market.
MSOs operating in these states include TerrAscend (OTC:TRSSF), Cresco Labs Inc. (OTC:CRLBF) in Michigan; Green Thumb Industries Inc. (OTC:GTBIF), Curaleaf (OTC:CURLF), and Verano Holdings Corp. (OTC:VRNOF) in Pennsylvania; and Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (OTC:TCNNF) and Ayr Wellness Inc. (OTC:AYRWF) in Florida.
These companies have heavily invested in CapEx for pharmaceutical-grade cannabis to meet stringent standards aligned with FDA requirements, positioning them to supply pharmacies and other large-scale buyers. "Michigan has tried to position itself as being nearly equal to FDA standards," Pollicella explained, highlighting the state's competitive advantage.
The prospect of federal rescheduling is already sparking discussions about mergers and acquisitions. Pollicella foresees significant consolidation as businesses struggle to meet pharmaceutical-grade compliance. "Companies that have grown thoughtfully and in a measured way are going to knock it out of the park," she said, emphasizing the Darwinian nature of the cannabis business.
Midwest markets, like Michigan and Illinois, are expected to play pivotal roles in M&A activity. Pollicella highlighted Michigan's readiness, citing its strict testing standards and proactive lobbying efforts. “Michigan has tried to position itself as being nearly equal to FDA standards,” she explained, adding that the state could become a major producer for the Midwest.
Pollicella warns that rescheduling is far from guaranteed. "Anybody counting on the rescheduling of marijuana down to Schedule III in the new administration is making an assumption that's not necessarily based on anything we've seen yet," she cautioned.
While some industry advocates hope the promise of tax revenue and economic growth will sway federal policymakers, Pollicella remains skeptical. "It's not a priority for this administration," she said, adding that substantial lobbying will likely be needed to make progress.
Despite the challenges, Pollicella is optimistic about the industry's potential under a rescheduled framework. She believes businesses with scalable production capabilities and strategic foresight will thrive. However, she also underscores the need for readiness.
Despite the significant political and economic discussions surrounding cannabis rescheduling, the process itself is more straightforward than many assume. Pollicella explains that the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 placed cannabis on Schedule I through political and legislative decisions, rather than medical consensus. "None of the criteria for Schedule I—no known medical use, no known safe use, and a high probability of addictiveness—really apply to marijuana," she said. As with its initial classification, rescheduling will require bipartisan consensus and can follow one of two paths.
Congress could pass legislation to amend the Controlled Substances Act, or the Attorney General could direct the FDA and DEA to conduct a review and implement rescheduling through administrative rule-making.
Read Also: DEA Sets Stage For Marijuana Rescheduling With December 2 Hearing
"Once there's political will, it can happen like this," Pollicella said, snapping her fingers metaphorically to illustrate how quickly the process could move once initiated.
This swift rescheduling would require states to align their regulatory schemes with federal guidelines. Pollicella anticipates that it might follow a model similar to the 2018 hemp rollout:
"The FDA could give states with existing regulatory structures a timeline, say six to nine months, to refine their programs to meet federal standards. States that comply could maintain control, while those that don't might see federal intervention."
However, the question remains whether the upcoming administration will prioritize this process. "The real challenge isn't the steps—it's the political will to move forward," she noted.
Read Next: Federal Policy Could Add $3 Billion To Cannabis Industry: On Track To Reach $55 Billion By 2030
Dr. Robert Murphy, the chief economist at Infineo, shared his thoughts on the evolution of blockchain in life insurance and the broader financial landscape during the Benzinga Fintech Awards, where his company was recognized as Best Insurtech Company.
Dr. Murphy highlighted Infineo's efforts to digitize the life insurance industry and how blockchain technology could reshape it by addressing traditional inefficiencies and enabling greater transparency.
At the conference, Dr. Murphy outlined Infineo’s groundbreaking work, which allows policyholders to tokenize the cash value of their life insurance policies on the blockchain.
See Also: ‘Institutions Are Ready To Play’: How Blockchain Is Gaining Traction In Traditional Finance
"What we're doing is allowing people to put the cash value of their life insurance policies on the blockchain, and they can mint stablecoins against it," he explained. This approach unlocks liquidity for policyholders while making life insurance a more accessible asset class for investors through fractionalized tokens.
Dr. Murphy also emphasized blockchain’s ability to address a longstanding issue in finance—opacity. "The financial sector right now is very opaque. Investors don't know what they're getting," he said. He compared the 2008 financial crisis, adding, "The mortgage-backed securities blowing up…part of the problem was nobody knew what was in these things. Now, with blockchain smart contracts, everybody knows exactly what they're buying."
Another focal point of the discussion was the industry’s anticipation of regulatory clarity following the recent election. "Everybody, I think, is relieved to know that there's just going to be regulatory certainty," Dr. Murphy said.
He noted that companies are not seeking special treatment but simply want a clear rulebook to continue building and innovating. "The best people will win, and the best companies will rise to the top," he added, underscoring the industry’s focus on competition and advancement.
Looking ahead, Dr. Murphy predicted the continued integration of real-world assets onto the blockchain. "More and more real-world assets will be put on the blockchain," he stated. As transparency increases and familiarity with digital assets grows, he anticipates blockchain will become a standard feature of financial transactions rather than an emerging innovation.
Infineo's recognition at the Benzinga Fintech Awards highlights its leadership in modernizing the life insurance industry through blockchain. By combining regulatory clarity with cutting-edge technology, the company is driving an era of increased transparency and accessibility in financial markets.
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Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
At last week's Benzinga Fintech Deal Day & Awards, Mitchell DiRaimondo, co-founder and lead project manager of SteelWave, addressed the increasing interest of traditional financial institutions in blockchain technology and tokenized real estate investments.
Speaking on a panel alongside representatives from BlackRock and Tzero, DiRaimondo shared his thoughts on the gradual but meaningful changes reshaping the financial industry.
DiRaimondo highlighted a shift in participation at this year's event, with a stronger presence of traditional financial institutions. "It's a lot more suits, less sweatshirts here," he said, reflecting the seriousness with which institutional players are approaching the blockchain space.
He noted that these institutions are increasingly prepared to enter the market, stating, "Institutions are ready to play. They're excited to see new innovations in their space, offering new offerings to their clientele."
The steady involvement of these firms points to an expanding interest in digital assets as financial institutions begin to explore how blockchain technology can enhance their offerings and operations.
Looking ahead, DiRaimondo identified regulation as the primary factor that could influence institutional adoption in the coming year. He expressed optimism about increased clarity in this area, saying, "I think there's gonna be a lot more regulatory clarity, which means institutions will feel more comfortable coming into the space."
He emphasized that this regulatory progress would help the United States assume a leadership role in digital finance. According to DiRaimondo, clear rules will encourage further institutional participation and drive advancements in financial services tied to blockchain technology.
DiRaimondo also touched on real estate tokenization as a transformative development. SteelWave's focus on tokenized real estate aims to make traditionally exclusive investments more accessible, offering a wider range of investors the ability to participate in commercial projects. This aligns with the growing demand for innovative investment opportunities combining traditional and digital approaches.
With institutions increasingly stepping into the digital asset space and regulatory changes anticipated to provide greater certainty, DiRaimondo suggested that this marks the beginning of a new era for blockchain integration in finance.
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Photo by Corynn Egreczky.
At the recent Benzinga Fintech Awards, Sean Kozak, managing partner and CEO of Tickblaze, outlined a strategic push to expand the accessibility of advanced trading technology. Previously tailored to institutional clients, the company aims to bring its tools to retail traders, aligning with the event's focus on innovation in financial technology.
Tickblaze, initially developed for institutional firms such as hedge funds and proprietary trading desks, is taking steps to introduce its technology to a broader audience.
Kozak explained, "Our company was originally built for institutions, traders, and firms. We essentially evolved the technology to bring it mainstream retail."
Using the event as a platform, Tickblaze showcased its vision for making institutional-grade trading tools available to the public, reflecting a shift in its mission to democratize advanced market solutions.
Kozak emphasized the importance of partnerships in Tickblaze's growth strategy, describing discussions with brokers, institutional clients, and other fintech firms. "It is about our partnerships with brokers, institutional funds, and clients," he said, highlighting the collaborative opportunities present at the event.
The emphasis on partnerships extended beyond business deals, with Kozak focusing on solutions to address industry challenges. He noted the event's role in fostering collaboration: “This entire event is about B2B partnerships and finding synergy between different organizations."
Tickblaze used its participation in the Benzinga Fintech Awards as a springboard for unveiling its retail-focused strategy. Kozak described the event as a pivotal moment for the company's journey, adding, "We strategically chose this event because we have a very similar vision to Benzinga, in that innovation should be accessible to everyone."
Kozak praised the event's ability to convene major names in the fintech community, describing it as essential for any company aiming to impact the industry. "It's the who's who crowd of the FinTech space," he said, reaffirming Tickblaze's commitment to participating in future Benzinga events.
The company's efforts to expand its audience reflect a broader mission to reshape the accessibility of trading tools. With a clear focus on collaboration and addressing the needs of both institutional and retail users, Tickblaze is positioning itself to lead in financial technology.
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