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Under normal market conditions, the fund will invest substantially all of its assets in FLEX Options that reference the performance of the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust. It is non-diversified.

FT Cboe Vest US Equity Buffer ETF October

FT Vest U.S. Equity Buffer ETF - October

A decades-long Danish study has found no significant link between cannabis use and increased age-related cognitive decline in men, challenging persistent <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40989263/long-term-medical-cannabis-use-has-no-significant-harmful-effects-on-memory-or-impulse-control-n">stereotypes about cannabis consumers.</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Key Findings</h3>
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen followed 5,162 men over an average of 44 years, examining cognitive aging from early adulthood to late midlife.
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Contrary to common assumptions, the study revealed that cannabis users experienced slightly less cognitive decline than non-users. The average cognitive decline across the participants was 6.2 IQ points, with cannabis users showing 1.3 fewer IQ points of decline compared to non-users.
The findings, <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/brb3.70136">published</a> in the journal Brain and Behavior, align with prior studies suggesting cannabis use is not associated with greater cognitive impairment in adulthood. 
However, the researchers caution that further investigations are necessary to determine if these results indicate no adverse long-term effects or if the effects of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40536603/can-thc-turn-back-the-clock-cannabis-reverses-brain-aging-boosts-mental-capacity-new-study-sugge">cannabis use dissipate over time.</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Expert Reactions</h3>
"These results contradict one of the more prominent and longstanding stereotypes about cannabis and cannabis consumers,&#8221; said Paul Armentano, deputy director of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML).
"It is even more unfortunate that studies refuting these long-held stereotypes seldom receive the type of mainstream attention they deserve."
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Context And Broader Implications</h3>
While this study adds to evidence refuting claims of significant cognitive decline in cannabis users, it is essential to note the distinction between adult and adolescent cannabis exposure. 
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that heavy cannabis use during adolescence may cause permanent changes to the developing brain, which continues to mature until approximately age 25.
In contrast, a separate recent study found <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/03/31293224/study-asserts-long-term-cannabis-use-leads-to-hippocampal-shrinkage-lower-iq-poor-learning-abil-">no adverse effects</a> on brain structure or cognitive function among adult medical cannabis users after a year of consistent use.
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Cannabis

News

Markets

Long-Term Study Reveals Cannabis May Slow Cognitive Decline: Everything You Need To Know

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Colorado's cannabis industry is facing a steep decline in sales and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/05/38712820/legal-cannabis-states-raked-in-20b-since-2014-peaking-at-4b-in-2023-new-report-shows">tax revenue</a>, falling to levels below 2018 figures. Tax collections from marijuana sales peaked at $424 million during the 2020-21 fiscal year but plummeted 41% to $248 million in 2023-24.&nbsp;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hemp THC Sales Bypass Cannabis Regulations</h3>
This downturn, detailed in a recent <a href="https://coloradosun.com/2024/11/21/colorado-marijuana-sales-taxes-intoxicating-hemp/">article</a> in The Colorado Sun, is attributed to increased market competition, falling wholesale cannabis prices, and the rise of so-called intoxicating hemp products. These <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/01/36584043/real-weed-or-a-lab-high-delta-8-and-delta-9-thc-explained">psychoactive hemp-derived products</a>, such as delta-8 THC, mimic the effects of delta-9 THC but are less potent and have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/11/41775784/hemp-vs-marijuana-industry-tensions-rise-amid-rejection-of-cannabis-legalization-in-florida-the-">gained widespread popularity</a>.
Since the legalization of hemp in 2018 under the federal <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42068539/billion-dollar-strike-farm-bill-amendment-could-change-the-hemp-industry">Farm Bill</a>, a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/01/30442687/controversial-delta-8-thc-products-garner-2b-in-sales-over-2-years-so-whats-the-problem">$2.2 billion quasi-legal market for hemp-derived THC products</a> has emerged. These products, including THC-infused seltzers, gummies, and brownies, often bypass the regulatory framework governing marijuana sales.
<ul>
<li>Get Benzinga&#8217;s exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter <a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe">here</a>. If you&#8217;re serious about the business, you can&#8217;t afford to miss out.</li>
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As a result, they are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40561082/delta-8-thc-exposure-is-lower-in-states-where-recreational-marijuana-is-legal-say-researchers-ba">sold in unlicensed venues</a> such as gas stations and farmers markets, competing directly with Colorado's heavily regulated marijuana market.&nbsp;
&#8220;You&#8217;ve put a pretty robust regulatory structure in place around marijuana, and you have this product that is sort of laughing in the face of that structure,&#8221; said Craig Harper, Joint Budget Committee staff director, at a recent budget hearing, according to The Colorado Sun.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lawmakers Push For Stricter Hemp Rules</h3>
State lawmakers have attempted to curb this competition. In 2023, Colorado restricted intoxicating hemp sales to licensed marijuana retailers.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, state attorneys general, including Colorado's Phil Weiser, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/01/36617725/12-state-attorneys-general-to-dea-reschedule-marijuana-to-defend-public-safety-cannabis-stocks-j">are urging Congress to impose stricter federal limits</a> on hemp-derived THC. However, enforcement challenges persist due to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42068539/billion-dollar-strike-farm-bill-amendment-could-change-the-hemp-industry">legal ambiguities</a>.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cannabis Tax Cuts Impact State Programs</h3>
The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40641980/denvers-marijuana-revenue-drops-34-but-cannabis-crime-rates-remain-low">declining cannabis tax revenue</a> has forced the state to cut programs funded by these taxes, including delaying a $20 million payment to a public school construction grant program.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Colorado Sun notes Governor Jared Polis has proposed further reductions in marijuana-funded services for the 2025 legislative session.
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nationwide Trends Highlight Colorado's Struggles</h3>
Colorado is not alone in experiencing declining cannabis sales. Washington and California, both early adopters of legalization, have reported drops in revenue. However, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/10/41322446/is-colorados-cannabis-market-back-on-track-a-5-sales-boost-says-yes">Colorado's 8% year-over-year decline surpasses the national average</a>, highlighting the unique pressures on its market.
As competition from hemp THC products grows and regulatory uncertainties persist, Colorado's marijuana industry faces mounting pressure to adapt.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42100798/missouris-psychoactive-hemp-products-boom-sparks-regulatory-industry-conflict">Missouri&#8217;s Psychoactive Hemp Products Boom Sparks Regulatory, Industry Conflict</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/10/35244369/cannabis-tax-map-see-how-states-are-cashing-in">Cannabis Tax Map: See How States Are Cashing In</a></li>
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Government

Regulations

Colorado's Marijuana Sales, Tax Revenue Slump Amid Hemp Competition

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/10/41552860/boeing-plans-to-sell-off-major-assets-as-the-company-scrambles-to-remain-profitable-and-stay-competi">Boeing </a>has initiated layoffs that will impact 2,199 workers in Washington state. The move is part of broader plans to downsize its workforce by about 17,000 amid persistent financial and operational struggles.&nbsp;
According to a notice filed with Washington's Employment Security Department, the aerospace company will continue implementing job cuts nationwide, raising concerns about its trajectory in a highly competitive industry.
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The reductions are part of a strategy announced in October when Boeing revealed plans to reduce its workforce by 10%. The layoffs affect multiple divisions – commercial airplanes, defense and global services – and span facilities in several states, including Missouri, Arizona, South Carolina and its base in Arlington, Virginia.&nbsp;
According to The Seattle Times, these cuts mark one of the largest workforce adjustments Boeing has made in recent years. Before the layoffs, Boeing employed around 66,000 workers in Washington.&nbsp;
Over 400 Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) members received notices last week, although these employees will remain on payroll until mid-January.&nbsp;
Trending: This Adobe-backed AI marketing startup went from a $5 to $85 million valuation working with brands like L'Oréal, Hasbro, and Sweetgreen in just three years –<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-ai-2"> here's how there's a limited time opportunity to invest at $1,000 for only $0.50/share before it closes TONIGHT.</a>
The Machinists' union also confirmed that many unionized workers recently returned to assembly lines following a nearly two-month strike. In an October call with analysts, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said that the Machinists&#8217; strike wasn't the primary factor driving <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/10/41493900/meta-ceo-zuckerberg-dismisses-workers-making-over-six-figures-for-taking-advantage-of-company-food-d">layoffs</a> but was instead tied to overstaffing.
He highlighted challenges in scaling production, particularly for the 737 MAX, under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) restrictions limiting production to 38 planes per month – a target Boeing has yet to achieve consistently.
According to the FAA, the company's compliance issues contributed to delays in ramping up production. A recent incident involving a detached door plug in flight on an Alaska Airlines plane further eroded confidence in Boeing's safety standards.
Financially, Boeing continues to face turbulence. The company reported a $6.1 billion loss for the third quarter of 2024, citing slower production rates and supply chain disruptions. According to Travel And Tour World, demand for new aircraft remains 15% below pre-pandemic levels, compounding recovery challenges.
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Still, some experts see the layoffs as a calculated step. In an interview on KIRO 7, Scott Hamilton said, "Boeing is bloated and needs to lose some weight – and these cuts will be tough but necessary."
However, critics argue that Boeing's aggressive downsizing will do more harm than good. Ray Goforth, the Executive Director of the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA), said in a statement: "Rather than resolve the IAM strike and focus the company's resources on rebuilding the trust of regulators and customers, Boeing leadership has decided to harm every aspect of the company."
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Boeing Announces 2,200 Job Cuts In Washington And Oregon – Is The Aerospace Giant Bracing For Turbulence?

Canopy Growth Corporation&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CGC#NASDAQ">CGC</a>) stock has fallen significantly from its recent highs in May 2024.
After reaching a peak of $16.41, the stock now trades around $3.93, raising questions about its potential for recovery and long-term investment viability. In this article, we take a closer look at Canopy&#8217;s medium-term performance and provide insights for investors who might be curious about this key industry player.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fibonacci Analysis: Key Resistance And Support Levels</h3>
A Fibonacci retracement analysis shows that the stock has retraced to the&nbsp;78.6% level (circa $3.86), a critical support point. Holding above this level could trigger a potential bounce, while failure to do so risks further declines toward the pre-rally starting point of&nbsp;$2.57.
On the upside, the&nbsp;61.8% retracement level (circa $6.36)&nbsp;represents a significant resistance zone. The stock tested this level twice: once during the last week of October and again during the first week of November. Breaking through this resistance would signal renewed investor confidence and could open the door to testing the&nbsp;50% level ($8.50) &#8211; a psychologically important milestone.
The company reported&nbsp;$1.23 billion in total assets&nbsp;for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41843751/canopy-growth-q2-net-revenue-drops-9-yoy-projects-positive-earnings-ahead">most recent quarter</a>, with&nbsp;$509.668 million in shareholder equity&nbsp;and a&nbsp;market capitalization of $396.154 million.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="781" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21175121/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-21-a-las-19.50.57-1024x781.png" alt="" class="wp-image-659928" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21175121/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-21-a-las-19.50.57-1024x781.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21175121/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-21-a-las-19.50.57-300x229.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21175121/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-21-a-las-19.50.57-768x586.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21175121/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-21-a-las-19.50.57.png 1416w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Chart created using <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41230957/why-canopys-brand-first-strategy-could-set-it-apart-from-tilray-and-aurora-heres-wh">Why Canopy&#8217;s &#8216;Brand-First&#8217; Strategy Could Set It Apart From Tilray And Aurora – Here&#8217;s What Investors Should Watch</a>
Get Benzinga&#8217;s exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. You can't afford to miss out if you&#8217;re serious about the business.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Is Canopy A Good Investment?</h3>
At current levels, Canopy Growth presents a high-risk, high-reward profile, similar to other <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/cannabis-stocks">cannabis companies</a>. The&nbsp;78.6% retracement support&nbsp;makes it appealing for speculative investors betting on a recovery. However, if the stock falls below $3.86, further declines could follow, raising concerns about profitability and long-term sustainability.
In the short term, there may be trading opportunities, but careful monitoring of other technical indicators is necessary.
For long-term investors, Canopy's future depends on its ability to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/24/11/42100955/the-u-s-cannabis-strategy-no-ones-talking-about-inside-canopys-300m-plan"> grow revenue</a>,<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/10/41381387/canopy-growth-slashes-debt-with-100m-loan-prepayment-saves-14m-in-interest"> reduce debt</a>, and capitalize on the U.S. market: something that the company seems to be <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/24/11/42100955/the-u-s-cannabis-strategy-no-ones-talking-about-inside-canopys-300m-plan">set to do</a>. But, from a technical standpoint, until the stock breaks above&nbsp;circa $6.36, signaling a broader reversal, caution is recommended.
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</ul>
Cover: Benzinga Pro

What's Happening With Canopy Growth: Is It Time To Buy?

According to an SEC <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1498710/000095010324016405/dp220813_8k.htm">filing</a>, Spirit Airlines, Inc. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAVEQ#OTC">SAVEQ</a>) CEO Ted Christie was paid a $3.8 million retention bonus just one week before the budget airline<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42032477/spirit-airlines-eyes-financial-stability-with-chapter-11-filing-and-equity-injection"> filed for bankruptcy. </a>
The Details: Spirit Airlines <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/n42030743/spirit-airlines-announces-comprehensive-agreement-to-deleverage-balance-sheet-and-position-the-com">filed for</a> Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Monday and announced a comprehensive balance sheet restructuring plan aimed at reducing its debt and allowing the airline to continue <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42083607/as-spirit-airlines-files-for-bankruptcy-experts-weigh-potential-impact-on-flight-prices-this-is-not-a-black-and-white-situation">to operate</a> through the bankruptcy process.&nbsp;
Spirit's existing bondholders agreed to take a $350 million ownership position in a reorganized airline and erased $795 million of debt. They also agreed to provide $300 million of debt-in-possession financing, giving Spirit access to cash that will allow it to continue to pay employee wages and benefits through its reorganization.
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"This set of transactions will materially strengthen our balance sheet and position Spirit for the future while we continue executing on our strategic initiatives to transform our guest experience, providing new enhanced travel options, greater value and increased flexibility," Christie said. 
The troubled airline also saw its stock delisted from the New York Stock Exchange (the ticker was SAVE) and is now trading in the over-the-counter marketplace. Spirit disclosed the shares are expected to be canceled and will have no value when the reorganization process is completed. 
Spirit <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1498710/000095010324016405/dp220813_8k.htm">approved</a> large retention bonuses for its top executives on Nov. 12, six days before the company announced the restructuring and filed for bankruptcy. CEO Christie&#8217;s retention bonus was $3.8 million, which he gets to keep if he remains with the company for another year.  
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Photo: Courtesy of Spirit Airlines, Inc.

Travel

Management

General

SAVE

SAVEQ

Spirit Airlines CEO Gets $3.8 Million Bonus 1 Week Before Company Files Bankruptcy

Best known for providing election polls and analysis, Nate Silver has a new prediction, or rather a suggestion that Vice President Kamala Harris should become president, despite losing the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41768178/donald-trump-defeats-kamala-harris-to-win-2024-election">2024 presidential election.</a>
What Happened: Silver doesn't think that Harris should be declared the winner of the 2024 presidential election, but rather should take over for outgoing President Joe Biden for the remainder of his term ahead of Donald Trump's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/41784933/donald-trumps-wealth-soars-with-2024-election-win-heres-how-much-president-elect-is-worth-ho">return to the White House.</a>
"Is there any particular reason to assume Biden is competent to be president right now? It's a very difficult job. It's a dangerous world. Extremely high-stakes decisions in Ukraine. He should resign and let Harris serve out the last two months," Silver <a href="https://x.com/NateSilver538/status/1859267392578179197">tweeted</a>.
The comments from Silver come after it was reported that Biden avoided the press while in South America for the G-20 summit, as <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/11/20/us-news/pollster-nate-silver-calls-on-biden-to-resign-after-claiming-he-isnt-competent-let-harris-serve/">reported </a>by the New York Post.
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Why It's Important: Age has been an important topic during the 2024 election cycle with Biden 82 years old and President-elect Trump 78 years old.
When Biden leaves the White House, he will break the record for the oldest president at the end of their term by more than four years, surpassing Ronald Reagan who was nearly 78 when he left the White House in 1989.
Trump will break the record for the oldest president at the start of a term, breaking Biden's current record of 78 years, 61 days set in January 2021.
Silver previously argued Biden should be replaced on the Democratic ticket for the 2024 election, an event that came true after Biden withdrew from the race after a poor showing in the first presidential debate.
Biden<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/24/11/42038707/gold-natural-gas-prices-rally-us-russia-tensions-escalate-over-ukraines-long-range-strikes"> recently authorized</a> Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied missiles in their attacks against Russia, an event that has escalated tensions in Europe and led to more concerns about the president's decisions during his last remaining time in the White House.
If Biden were to step down, Harris would become the first female president of the U.S., although it would come as a short-time event and after American voters have still not elected a female president to the White House.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Politics

Global

Nate Silver Says Biden Should Resign, Have Harris Take Over Presidency: 'It's A Very Difficult Job'

Germany&#8217;s medical cannabis imports reached 20.1 tons in Q3 2024, a substantial increase from previous quarters. This surge follows the April 2024 revision of the country&#8217;s narcotics law, which has facilitated greater access to medical cannabis. 
Despite this growth, medical cannabis users still represent less than 0.3% of the population, indicating significant potential for market expansion.
<ul>
<li>Get Benzinga&#8217;s exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. You can't afford to miss out if you&#8217;re serious about the business.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rejection Rates And Market Dynamics</h3>
Historically, approximately 40% of imported cannabis in Germany has been either rejected or re-exported, with pharmacies purchasing about 60% of imports, according to analyst <a href="https://zuanicgroup.com/">Pablo Zuanic</a> of Zuanic and Associates.
In Q3 2024, as importers rushed to build inventories, rejection rates likely increased, potentially resulting in pharmacies purchasing between 50% and 55% of imports. 
This suggests that out of the 20.1 tons imported, pharmacies acquired between 10 and 11 tons, doubling the levels seen before the April reforms.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shifts In Exporter Market Shares</h3>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/canada-cannabis">Canada</a> remains the largest supplier, exporting 8.1 tons to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/germany-cannabis"> Germany</a> in Q3 2024. However, its market share declined to 40% from 59% in Q1.&nbsp;Several Canadian companies actively operate in Germany's cannabis market, including Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACB#NASDAQ">ACB</a>), Canopy Growth Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CGC#NASDAQ">CGC</a>), and Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLRY#NASDAQ">TLRY</a>), leveraging their expertise in cultivation and distribution to meet the growing demand.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/portugal-cannabis">Portugal</a>&#8216;s share increased to 21%, with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/denmark">Denmark</a> at 13%, and Spain and Uruguay each contributing 5%. Notably, the Netherlands&#8217; share dropped to 2% from 8% in 2023.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/24/11/42100955/the-u-s-cannabis-strategy-no-ones-talking-about-inside-canopys-300m-plan">The U.S. Cannabis Strategy No One&#8217;s Talking About: Inside Canopy&#8217;s $300M Plan</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Implications For The Market</h3>
The annualized value of Germany&#8217;s medical cannabis market is estimated at €352 million (US$375 million). According to Zuanic, "With less than 0.3% of the population currently using medical cannabis, the market remains underdeveloped but has immense growth potential."
Zuanic explains that if Germany reaches a 1% penetration rate, similar to Canada&#8217;s, "that would imply more than 4-5x upside." However, achieving this growth will require <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40298228/think-you-can-do-it-all-20-000-reasons-why-automation-outperforms-a-broad-approach-in-cannabis">addressing key challenges</a>. "More consistent and ample supplies across price and quality spectrums, new formats being allowed, and streamlined prescription systems."
Despite these hurdles, Zuanic says he is still optimistic. "It is still early days, but the German medical cannabis market could accelerate as these issues along the supply chain improve," he added, signaling the potential for significant expansion in this nascent market.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/11/41997646/tilray-joins-german-cannabis-fiesta-with-first-locally-grown-strains">Tilray Joins German Cannabis Fiesta With First Locally Grown Strains</a>

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UBS analyst Colin Bristow maintains Gilead Sciences (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $70 to $96.

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Editor&#8217;s note: This story has been updated to remove references to an individual that lacked context and relevance. 
Crude oil WTI futures saw a slight uptick following a significant phone call between President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
What Happened: At the time of writing, Crude Oil WTI Futures was up 0.18% at $70.25 per barrel on Monday during pre-market hours.
President-elect Trump reportedly had a phone discussion with President Putin on Thursday, marking their first interaction since Trump&#8217;s election win, The Washington Post <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/11/10/trump-putin-phone-call-ukraine/">reported</a> on Sunday. Trump urged Putin to refrain from escalating the Ukraine conflict, highlighting the substantial U.S. military presence in Europe. The dialogue also included discussions on achieving peace across Europe, with Trump expressing interest in further talks to hasten a resolution to the Ukraine issue. 
These developments could have contributed to a rise in Crude Oil WTI Futures. The market often responds to potential de-escalation in geopolitical tensions, which can ease supply concerns and potentially lower prices.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41869034/skyrocketing-bitcoin-nears-80000-milestone-on-optimism-over-trump?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin Surges Past $80,000 Milestone For First Time On Optimism Over Trump</a>
Why It Matters: The phone call between <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41865062/putin-congratulates-trump-on-2024-election-victory-russian-leader-said-president-elect-manly-for-how-he-handled-assassination-attempt">Trump and Putin</a> comes amid heightened scrutiny of Russian oil trade. The U.S. Justice Department has been intensifying efforts to enforce sanctions on Russia&#8217;s energy exports. 
Additionally, Russian oil has found its way to U.S. shores through a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/02/36888966/russian-oil-hits-us-shores-under-sanction-busting-loophole">sanction-busting loophole</a>, despite a ban on its import following Russia&#8217;s invasion of Ukraine. 
Oil prices have been volatile lately, with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/11/41715076/oil-prices-spike-by-over-3-as-opec-delays-production-increases-ahead-of-us-electi">OPEC+ recently delaying production </a>increases ahead of the U.S. elections, causing a spike in prices.
Meanwhile, Oil prices remained relatively stable on Monday as concerns over potential supply disruptions from a U.S. storm subsided, and China's recent stimulus measures underwhelmed investors hoping for a boost in fuel demand from the world's second-largest oil consumer. Brent crude futures edged up by 4 cents, reaching $73.91 per barrel by 0714 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude slipped 7 cents to $70.31 per barrel.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by Evan El-Amin and Frederic Legrand &#8211; COMEO on Shutterstock

Commodities

Trump Reportedly Urges Russian President To Deescalate War With Ukraine: Here's How Crude Oil WTI Futures Are Reacting (UPDATED)

MicroStrategy, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) shares are climbing after-hours after the company announced it completed its previously announced offering of its 0% convertible <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42122992/microstrategy-completes-3-000-000-000-offering-of-0-convertible-senior-notes-due-2029">senior notes due 2029.&nbsp;</a>
The Details: MicroStrategy said the aggregate principal amount of the notes sold in the offering was $3 billion, which includes $400 million aggregate principal amount of notes issued pursuant to an option to purchase.&nbsp;
Read More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/42119493/rumble-eyes-buying-bitcoin-could-it-be-the-next-microstrategy">Rumble CEO Considers Bitcoin Investment, Engages Michael Saylor As Shares Rally</a>
The net proceeds from the sale of the notes were approximately $2.97 billion, after deducting the initial purchasers&#8217; discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by the company.&nbsp;
MicroStrategy intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of the notes to acquire additional Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and for general corporate purposes. MicroStrategy holds a total of 331,200 Bitcoin purchased at an average price of approximately $49,874 per coin as of Nov. 17.
What Else: MicroStrategy shares fell more than 16% in Thursday's regular session after short-seller Citron Research's Andrew Left announced he took a new <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42118133/short-seller-andrew-left-targets-microstrategy-stock-as-hedge-against-bullish-bitcoin-bet-completely-detached-from-btc-fundamentals">short position</a> in the stock which has rallied more than 50% since President-elect Donald Trump won the election on Nov. 5.&nbsp;
"Fast forward to today: $MSTR has skyrocketed to over $5,000 (adjusted) … while Citron remains bullish on Bitcoin, we&#8217;ve hedged with a short $MSTR position," Left said. "Much respect to @saylor, but even he must know $MSTR is overheated," Citron Research wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;
MSTR Price Action: According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, MicroStrategy shares are up 5.48% after-hours at $410.05 at the time of publication Thursday.&nbsp;
Read More:&nbsp;
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Photo: Courtesy of MicroStrategy, Inc.

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Cannabis stocks reacted with mixed results on Thursday after Matt Gaetz <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42119848/matt-gaetz-withdraws-name-from-ag-nomination-calls-sex-trafficking-controversy-a-distraction">withdrew his nomination</a> for U.S. Attorney General amid <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/11/42078192/trumps-attorney-general-pick-matt-gaetz-resigned-from-congress-ethics-committee-to-decide-if-report-will-be-released">allegations</a> of sexual misconduct, drug use, lack of legal experience and more. Last week, President-elect Donald Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/11/41959036/trump-nominates-another-cannabis-supporter-to-cabinet-rep-matt-gaetz-for-attorney-general">nominated</a> Gaetz who is a long-time supporter of cannabis legalization. 
While Gaetz's exit may not be directly tied to the sector's performance, multi-state operators (MSOs) and cannabis ETFs recorded notable declines, reflecting ongoing investor jitters in a politically sensitive market.
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<li>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&nbsp;<a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. You can&#8217;t afford to miss out if you're serious about the business.</li>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">MSOs Slides, Sector Faces Pressure</h3>
The AdvisorShares Pure US Cannabis ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSOS#NYSE">MSOS</a>), often viewed as a benchmark for MSOs, dropped by -4.31%, closing at $4.56. This decline highlights the continued uncertainty in the cannabis space, as investors reassess the implications of a reshuffling political landscape.
Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTCQX">CURLF</a>), one of the largest MSOs in the U.S., shed -4.10%, finishing the day at $1.99. Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTCQX">TCNNF</a>) was not far behind, falling -1.93% to $6.11. Meanwhile, Cresco Labs Inc. (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRLBF#OTCQX">CRLBF</a>) dropped -5.74%, closing at $1.15.While some MSOs struggled, Green Thumb Industries (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTBIF#OTCQX">GTBIF</a>) managed to stay in positive territory closing at $9.30.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sundial Stands Out</h3>
Sundial Growers Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNDL#NASDAQ">SNDL</a>) defied the broader sector trends, climbing 1.79% to end the day at $1.995. Other gainers included Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLRY#NASDAQ">TLRY</a>), which rose 1.94% to $1.315, and Canopy Growth Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CGC#NASDAQ">CGC</a>), up 2.53% to $3.855.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Deep Declines&nbsp;</h3>
Thursday saw significant losses among smaller players, with Cansortium Inc. (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNTMF#OTCQX">CNTMF</a>) plunging -22.72%, closing at $0.0711. iAnthus Capital Holdings Inc. (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITHUF#OTCQX">ITHUF</a>) also struggled, dropping -11.43% to $0.00558.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/11/42122634/gop-bathroom-battle-cannabis-advocate-nancy-mace-will-stand-in-the-way-of-any-man-who-tries-to-get-into-womens-room">GOP Bathroom Battle: Cannabis Advocate Nancy Mace Will &#8216;Stand In The Way Of Any Man&#8217; Who Tries To Get Into Women&#8217;s Room</a>

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The price of leading cryptocurrency Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) continues to hit new all-time highs, breaking several records since the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42109267/bitcoin-hits-new-all-time-high-above-98000-as-spot-etfs-crack-100-billion-net-asset-value-milestone"> 2024 presidential election.</a>
Investors who bought earlier this year or ahead of the election have generated strong profits, but nowhere near the gains that investors got being early believers in the cryptocurrency.
What Happened: In October 2008, pseudonymous&nbsp;Satoshi Nakamoto<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/22/08/28349295/understanding-bitcoins-whitepaper" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;published a whitepaper</a>&nbsp;titled &#8220;Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System.&#8221; The whitepaper provided many key details and explained why Bitcoin was created.
In January 2009, Nakamoto mined the genesis block of the first 50 Bitcoins and the cryptocurrency was officially born.
When Bitcoin was released, there were only two ways to get the cryptocurrency: mine the Bitcoin yourself or use a peer-to-peer transaction.
Bitcointalk, a forum created by Nakamoto to host discussions on Bitcoin, was used for several transactions. The transactions were deemed risky at the time because they required trust from both parties and were mostly anonymous.
In October 2009, one of the first-ever recognized Bitcoin transactions happened when a Finnish computer science student sold 5,050 Bitcoin for $5.02 (which represented a value of $0.0009 for each Bitcoin), according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/bitcoin-price-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forbes</a>. The transaction took place on&nbsp;PayPal.
Less than a year later in May 2010, one of the most famous Bitcoin transactions of all time — and what is widely believed to be the first retail transaction — took place when programmer&nbsp;Laszlo Hanyecz&nbsp;sought out a person to buy him pizza in exchange for Bitcoin. A person in England subsequently spent around $41 to buy pizza from Papa John&#8217;s for Hanyecz in exchange for 10,000 Bitcoin. This represented a value of around $0.0041 for each Bitcoin.
It wasn&#8217;t until 2011 and after the launch of several major crypto exchanges that the cryptocurrency hit a price of $1.
In 2021, Bitcoin&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/23/12/36083106/heres-how-much-100-invested-in-bitcoin-today-will-be-worth-if-crypto-hits-new-all-time-hig" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hit an all-time high</a>&nbsp;of $68,789.63 as part of a year that saw increased interest in the leading cryptocurrency and many other cryptocurrencies.
In 2022, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies fell in value and interest with several notable cryptocurrency trading platforms declaring bankruptcy.
The<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/01/36514679/wall-street-enters-the-crypto-age-sec-issues-historic-approval-of-spot-bitcoin-etfs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;approval of Bitcoin ETFs&nbsp;</a>in 2024 has led to increased interest in Bitcoin once again and a surge in the price of the leading cryptocurrency.
Fast forward to today and Bitcoin is trading near the $100,000 milestone with a current price of $98,093.47 at the time of writing. Bitcoin hit a new all-time high of $99,014.21 earlier on Nov. 21, 2024.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/01/36471920/happy-birthday-bitcoin-15-fun-facts-about-leading-cryptocurrency">Happy Birthday Bitcoin: 15 Fun Facts About Leading Cryptocurrency</a>
Investing $1 in Bitcoin:&nbsp;Using the early transactions referenced above, a hypothetical investment in the early days could have provided quite the return for its holder, or in this case a &#8220;hodler.&#8221;
A $1 investment in Bitcoin at the time of the first transaction on PayPal would have netted 1,111.1111 Bitcoin.&nbsp;That investment would be worth $108,992,743.36 today based on a price of $98,093.47 for Bitcoin at the time of writing.
In contrast, a $1 investment in Bitcoin at the time of the Bitcoin-pizza transaction could have bought 243.9024 Bitcoin.&nbsp;That investment would be worth $23,925,232.76 today based on the same price of $98,093.47 for Bitcoin at the time of writing.
While investing in Bitcoin today might never be worth millions of dollars in the future, the hypothetical investment illustrated the large increase in the value of the leading cryptocurrency over time. Ark Invest CEO Cathie Wood<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/11/42017619/heres-how-much-100-in-bitcoin-could-be-worth-in-2030-if-cathie-woods-price-target-is-reached"> has a price target </a>of $3.8 million for Bitcoin by 2030.
A fixed supply of 21 million Bitcoin could also lead to further increases in the asset&#8217;s price as more people seek to take positions.
Many have predicted Bitcoin&#8217;s death over the years, but the cryptocurrency remains the leader in the space and has a market capitalization of over $1 trillion today.
Read Next: 
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This article was previously published by Benzinga and has been updated.
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

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