Welcome to Rise & Roll, a bi-weekly newsletter that keeps you smart, savvy, and always in the loop on the latest in cannabis.

Here’s what we have on deck for today…

1. Banks warm up to cannabis with cheaper loans

2. Cannabis groups unite for stronger policy push

3. IRS tightens rules on cannabis insurance tax breaks

Banks warm up to cannabis with cheaper loans

Standard Wellness just scored a $10M loan at 9.25% interest — way below the 13%+ rates most cannabis companies face.

• The deal shows banks are getting comfy with cannabis, even if federal laws haven't changed

• The company will save $1.2M yearly on interest payments, money they can pump back into growth

The real kicker? The loan runs for 10 years, giving Standard Wellness breathing room that's rare in cannabis financing.

As more banks follow suit, watch for cannabis companies to swap their expensive debt for cheaper options.

Cannabis groups unite for stronger policy push

In a major industry shakeup, the National Cannabis Roundtable and US Cannabis Council have joined forces to create the United States Cannabis Roundtable. The merger unites the two biggest cannabis advocacy groups under one banner, representing businesses across 38 states and 13,000 retail locations.

The timing is strategic. With President Trump's recent endorsement of cannabis reform and SAFE Banking, the newly formed group aims to capitalize on this momentum.

As Charlie Bachtell, CEO of Cresco Labs and chair of both original groups puts it, we're at "a pivotal time for the regulated cannabis industry."

IRS tightens rules on cannabis insurance tax breaks

The IRS just finalized rules affecting cannabis companies using micro-captive insurers — small insurance companies businesses create to cover their own risks. While cannabis firms generally can't deduct insurance premiums due to federal restrictions, the IRS says they must still follow new disclosure requirements if using these structures.

This adds another layer to an already complex tax landscape. The move signals continued IRS scrutiny of industry tax practices, especially as potential rescheduling looms. Operators should review their insurance arrangements to ensure compliance with these new rules.

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We’ll be back with another edition on Friday. See you then!

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