Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 12:45 PM on Friday, March 27th, 2020
SPONSOR: Datametrex AI Limited
(TSX-V: DM) A revenue generating small cap A.I. company that NATO and
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Covid-19 fake news hacks its way onto government blockchain website
On March 14, the government in Argentina disclosed that its system had effectively been hacked.
Perpetrator(s) uploaded false information regarding guidelines for public officials on handling the coronavirus (Covid-19) onto the country’s official bulletin website, which just so happens to use blockchain technology.Â
As a result, officials took the site temporarily offline.
Correspondingly, another issuance will be necessary to disclaim the false statements posted on its 34,239 editions.
Have the blockchain gods forsaken the government of Buenos Aires? Not exactly. Blockchain isn’t bullet-proof.
Hacked! Why Argentina’s case is a big deal
Perhaps you’re wondering, “what’s the big deal? It’s just a bulletin.â€
No, it’s not just a bulletin.
Many countries have their own official bulletin or gazette wherein
laws, notifications, or other big-deal, high-level government
information is formally announced.
In Argentina, it’s known as the BoletÃn Oficial. Mexico’s is christiend the Diario Oficial de la Federación. In the US it’s called the Federal Register.
And the fact that something of such substantial importance in
government communications was hacked is both alarming and interesting.
First off, blockchain-based systems are often hailed as more fool-proof to this type of manipulation.
And that’s because each block within the chain is supposed to have
its own unique cryptographic fingerprint and use what’s known as a
“consensus protocol.†Through this protocol, the nodes on the network
share and record transactional history.
Thanks to these mechanisms, in theory, not just any outsider can show up and manipulate the data.
But with some creativity and determination, hackers can bust through blockchain’s apparently impenetrable defenses.
Secondly, everyone is well aware of how fake news can make its way
onto social media. As a result, we’re consistently advised to only rely
on official sources, like government websites, for more information on
the pandemic.
The hacking of a government outlet like Buenos Aires’ means that no
source is 100 percent safe and fool-proof to being used as a platform to
broadcast false statements.
That’s why we should make an effort to consult additional sources for
more information. Especially for a topic as sensitive as healthcare.
And remember, if the government is hackable, so are you. So take the necessary precautions to protect your own data and systems.
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 4:12 PM on Thursday, March 19th, 2020
With 165,000 patients, Empower Clinics (CBDT:CSE) (EPWCF:OTCQB)
has a database that almost every medical cannabis and CBD company would
kill for. Patient visits increased 351% in Q4 and 800% in February.
But would Coronavirus social gathering imitations put the clinic network
at risk?
No. In fact, it has had the opposite effect, with the clinics being designated an essential service. Moreover, Empower has had to actually increase operating hours.
Watch this interview with the Company’s CEO, Steven McAuley, who is Six Sigma certified under the quality initiative of legendary GE chairman Jack Welch. We’ve never seen a Six Sigma certified CEO in the Canadian small cap markets. Never …. which also explains how McAuley has been able to guide Empower Clinics through the most disruptive retail environment in recent history. Â
Grab your favourite beverage and settle in to watch what may be your next great small cap investment.
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 7:24 AM on Thursday, March 19th, 2020
Empower Clinics adapts operational processes to manage continued record patient counts during COVID-19 outbreak
Patient visits in corporate clinics continue at record pace, with patients demonstrating an even greater need for plant-based medicine, as the impact of COVID-19 becomes more pervasive
State’s of Arizona and Oregon have declared a State of Emergency over the novel coronavirus outbreak therefore, as a medical service provider, Empowers corporate medical clinics are considered an essential service and are not subject to certain mandated closures
VANCOUVER, BC / March 18, 2020 / EMPOWER CLINICS INC. (CSE: CBDT) (OTC: EPWCF) (Frankfurt 8EC) (“Empower” or the “Company“), a vertically integrated and growth-oriented life sciences company, announces that patient visits in corporate clinics continue at record pace, with patients demonstrating an even greater need for plant-based medicine, as the impact of COVID-19 becomes more pervasive.
“The coronavirus crisis is impacting all aspects of our lives, but
our clinics remain incredibly busy, as patients show how important their
medical cannabis treatment options are to manage increased levels of
anxiety, stress, chronic pain and PTSD” said Steven McAuley, Chairman
& CEO of Empower. “We had to quickly adapt clinic operating
procedures to ensure optimum safety for employees and patients, updated
cleaning and sanitation protocols, and provided extensive new
communications to our team and patients.”
The State’s of Arizona and Oregon have declared a State of Emergency
over the novel coronavirus outbreak therefore, as a medical service
provider, Empowers corporate medical clinics are considered an essential
service and are not subject to certain mandated closures.
The Company has made changes to clinic operations and patient
management based on the most recent recommendations from the (CDC)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and their guidance for
healthcare facilities.
Empower is a vertically-integrated health & wellness brand with
it’s first hemp-derived CBD extraction facility under development, the
Company produces its proprietary line of cannabidiol (CBD) based
products and distributes products through company owned and franchised
clinics, with wholesale partnerships, online channels and with new
retail opportunities nationwide in the U.S. The company is a leading
multi-state operator of a network of physician-staffed wellness clinics,
focused on helping patients improve and protect their health, through
innovative physician recommended treatment options. The company has
commenced activity on how to connect its significant data, to the
potential of the efficacy of alternative treatment options related to
hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) therapies.
For French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc., E: [email protected], T: (888) 585-MARI
DISCLAIMER FOR FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements”
or “forward-looking information” (collectively “forward looking
statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws.
All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are
forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and
projections as at the date of this news release.Forward-looking statements
can frequently be identified by words such as “plans”, “continues”,
“expects”, “projects”, “intends”, “believes”, “anticipates”,
“estimates”, “may”, “will”, “potential”, “proposed” and other similar
words, or information that certain events or conditions “may” or “will”
occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include
statements regarding; the Company’s intention to open a hemp-based CBD
extraction facility, the expected benefits to the Company and its
shareholders as a result of the proposed acquisitions and partnerships;
the effectiveness of the extraction technology; the expected benefits
for Empower’s patient base and customers; the benefits of CBD based
products; the effect of the approval of the Farm Bill; the growth of the
Company’s patient list and that the Company will be positioned to be a
market-leading service provider for complex patient requirements in 2019
and beyond. Such statements are only projections, are based on
assumptions known to management at this time, and are subject to risks
and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or
developments to differ materially from those contained in the
forward-looking statements, including; that the Company may not open a
hemp-based CBD extraction facility; that legislative changes may have an
adverse effect on the Company’s business and product development; that
the Company may not be able to obtain adequate financing to pursue its
business plan; general business, economic, competitive, political and
social uncertainties; failure to obtain any necessary approvals in
connection with the proposed acquisitions and partnerships; and other
factors beyond the Company’s control. No assurance can be given that any
of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur
or, if they do occur, what benefits the Company will obtain from them.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking
statements in this release, which are qualified in their entirety by
these cautionary statements. The Company is under no obligation, and
expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any
forward-looking statements in this release, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by
applicable laws.
Tags: CSE, Hemp, Marijuana, small cap Posted in Empower Clinics Inc., Featured | Comments Off on Empower Clinics $CBDT.ca Daily Patient Count Continues at Record Pace with Medical Cannabis Certifications Deemed an Essential Service $WEED.ca $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $OGI.ca
COLUMBUS, Ohio -With 9 in 10 Americans favoring legalization of Marijuana for recreation or medicinal purposes and New York weeks away from a decision, aging expert Lisa Cini shares details of marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD) usage among the 11,000+ boomers who responded to her marijuana survey and answered a variety of questions on marijuana consumption, opinion, and usage.
“It’s time to mainstream senior-friendly tools for using marijuana,
and consider implications for designing seniors’ living spaces, or help
those marijuana-using seniors living in multi-generational homes to
partake in designated ways and areas as not to offend family members who
don’t use, including children and grandchildren.â€Tweet this
“I’m not surprised that 83% of the respondents are using some form of
cannabis for recreational and medical reasons. 66% partake daily and
believe that marijuana and/or CBD use is an important component of their
lives,†says Lisa Cini, senior living expert and author of BOOM: The Baby Boomers Guide to Leveraging Technology, so that you can Preserve Your Independent Lifestyle & Thrive. “Don’t
forget that much of the boomer generation grew up smoking weed. Some
never stopped, resumed in retirement, or when they were no longer
raising children. Because the aging process is unforgiving as it relates
to pain, seniors are finding relief from achy bones and joints,
arthritis, sleeplessness, and many other ailments, proving that there’s a
great deal more to marijuana than just getting high, especially for
those battling health and comfort challenges.â€
Seniors are using weed in any number of ways, from smoking to baking
and preparing full meals with cannabutter for many perceived health
benefits including relief from insomnia, anxiety, chronic pain,
depression, muscle tension, arthritis, and migraines in addition to
getting high.
For those who desire CBD without THC, popular brands like vitafusion™
now offer gummy vitamins with full spectrum hemp extract and natural
phytocannabinoids (225mg & 10mg CBD per gummy), Blissful Sleep with
5mg Melatonin (300mg with 10mg CBD per gummy) to induce sleep, and
Chillaxed Mood with natural phytocannabinoids & 10mg L-Theanine (300
mg & 10mg CBD per gummy) to promote calm mental alertness, in
contrast to the restless energy sometimes produced by caffeine. CBD
creams and other skin care products are touted for anti-aging and appeal
to boomers. CBD Anti-Aging Cream with Apple Stem Cells, was voted #1
Best Anti-Aging CBD Skin Cream in 2019 and for those with sensitive
skin, Abinoid Botanicals Face Serum – Blue Chamomile & Hemp was
voted #2 best hemp cream.
“Marijuana and CBD use is a reality that can no longer be ignored, as
it’s very much a part of the daily lives of so many,†adds Cini. “It’s
time to mainstream senior-friendly tools for using marijuana, and
consider implications for designing seniors’ living spaces, or help
those marijuana-using seniors living in multi-generational homes to
partake in designated ways and areas as not to offend family members who
don’t use, including children and grandchildren.â€
During a normal flu season, frequent weed smokers know the drill.
Pay closer attention to everyone’s cough patterns during a smoke
sesh. Stop accepting mouth-wet blunts from strangers. And if you think
you’re coming down with something, wave a lighter under the mouthpiece
before passing the pipe.
This year, obviously, things are a bit more serious. We’re dealing
with multiple citywide quarantines, global economic disruption, and a
pandemic being compared to the damn Spanish flu. It’s enough to make
self-respecting cannabis enthusiasts re-evaluate their medicine cabinet
and diversify their stash box.
Obviously, there’s no dependable research on CBD’s or THC’s effect on
COVID-19. But we do know a few things about cannabis and general
wellness. Down the rabbit hole of alternative cannabinoids and
non-psychoactive cannabis, there is a wealth of potential medicinal
benefits both preventative and curative.
At least when it comes to the regular flu, CBD has been found to help
support immune systems, ease symptoms, and replace over-the-counter
pain relievers, sleep aids, and medicated salves currently taking up
space in our medicine cabinet. But not just any CBD will do, and CBD
alone won’t do it all.
Obviously, the best course of action right now is to keep vigorously
washing your hands, mind your coughs, avoid large crowds, and be a bit
more stingy with your pipes and joints. But if you find yourself
slipping under the weather, for whatever reason, here are a few things
to know about how cannabis might help ease symptoms.
CBD for Immune System Support
Tons more research is required to accurately map the relationship
between the immune and endocannabinoid systems, but it’s well
established that CBD helps reduce self-harming autoimmune and
inflammatory responses. “CBD has been found to act as an immune system
modulator,” says Anna Symonds, director of East Fork Cultivars’ CBD
Certified program. “This means that it’s like a thermostat—it can turn
the level of activity down or up, depending on the body’s needs.”
Tags: CSE, Hemp, Marijuana, small cap, small cap stocks, stocks Posted in Empower Clinics Inc. | Comments Off on Empower Clinics $CBDT.ca – #Cannabis Won’t Cure #Coronavirus, but It Can Help Ease Certain Flu Symptoms $WEED.ca $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $OGI.ca
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 8:24 AM on Thursday, March 5th, 2020
Announced the advancement of its previously announced Joint Venture Partnership with Heritage Cannabis Holdings Corp. (CSE: CANN), based in Sandy, Oregon, USA.
Now advancing the JV with the order and installation of extraction and post-production equipment units at Empower’s existing licenced hemp processing facility in Sandy, Oregon,
Will immediately begin performing hemp-based product manufacturing for proprietary formulations, tolling services, and third-party white labelling services for other distributors throughout the United States
VANCOUVER, BC / March 5, 2020 / EMPOWER CLINICS INC. (CSE:CBDT) (OTC:EPWCF) (Frankfurt 8EC) (“Empower” or the “Company“), a vertically integrated and growth-oriented life sciences company is pleased to announce the advancement of its previously announced Joint Venture Partnership (“JV”) with Heritage Cannabis Holdings Corp. (CSE: CANN) (“Heritage”), based in Sandy, Oregon, USA.
In September 2019, Empower announced it had entered into a Letter of
Intent (“LOI”) to form a 50/50 ownership JV with Heritage for the
extraction of hemp for CBD oil production, and formulated CBD products.
The JV is equally funded by both parties and since formation CDN$250,000
has been provided to the JV.
Heritage and Empower are now advancing the JV with the order and
installation of extraction and post-production equipment units at
Empower’s existing licenced hemp processing facility in Sandy, Oregon,
in order to immediately begin performing hemp-based product
manufacturing for proprietary formulations, tolling services, and
third-party white labelling services for other distributors throughout
the United States.
The proprietary branded products will be distributed through
Empower’s corporately owned physician staffed health clinics in Oregon
and Arizona, online at www.sunvalleyhealth.com and in upcoming new franchise locations, which currently have access to over 165,000 patients.
Additionally, related downstream equipment is now being installed
including gel cap processing, tincture bottle and vape cartridge
filling, as well as labelling, packaging, storage and shipping services,
to offer full-service end-to-end products to third parties.
Heritage is providing training and supervision related to the
proprietary methods of extraction and oil production that is already
being successfully produced in Canada by Heritage.
“Having the backing of an experienced partner with the financial
strength of Heritage Cannabis is proving to be so beneficial for the
development of our first extraction facility”, said Steven McAuley,
Chief Executive Officer of Empower. “Together, we have already
identified numerous opportunities to bring new orders to the JV
facility, ensuring we leverage the capacity we are building.”
“We are very pleased to be advancing our U.S. strategy through this
mutually beneficial partnership with Empower, which provides Heritage
ease of access to the world’s largest cannabis market”, stated Clint
Sharples, Chief Executive Officer of Heritage. “The installation of
extraction units is the next phase of the JV and another step toward
successfully furthering our growth strategies.”
ABOUT EMPOWER
Empower is a vertically-integrated health & wellness brand with
it’s first hemp-derived CBD extraction facility under development, the
Company produces its proprietary line of cannabidiol (CBD) based
products and distributes products through company owned and franchised
clinics, with wholesale partnerships, online channels and with new
retail opportunities nationwide in the U.S. The company is a leading
multi-state operator of a network of physician-staffed wellness clinics,
focused on helping patients improve and protect their health, through
innovative physician recommended treatment options. The company has
commenced activity on how to connect its significant data, to the
potential of the efficacy of alternative treatment options related to
hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) therapies.
About Heritage Cannabis Holdings Corp.
The Company is focused on becoming a vertically integrated cannabis
provider that currently has two Health Canada approved licenced
producers, through its subsidiaries Voyage Cannabis Corp. and CannaCure
Corp. both regulated under the Cannabis Act Regulations. Working under
these two licences, Heritage has two additional subsidiaries, Purefarma
Solutions, which provides extraction services, and a Medical Services
Division which is focused on cannabis based medical solutions. Heritage
as the parent company, is focused on providing the resources for its
subsidiaries to advance their products or services to compete both
domestically and internationally.
Investors: Dustin Klein SVP, Business Development [email protected] 720-352-1398
For French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc., E: [email protected], T: (888) 585-MARI
DISCLAIMER FOR FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements”
or “forward-looking information” (collectively “forward looking
statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws.
All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are
forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and
projections as at the date of this news release.Forward-looking statements
can frequently be identified by words such as “plans”, “continues”,
“expects”, “projects”, “intends”, “believes”, “anticipates”,
“estimates”, “may”, “will”, “potential”, “proposed” and other similar
words, or information that certain events or conditions “may” or “will”
occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include
statements regarding; the Company’s intention to open a hemp-based CBD
extraction facility, the expected benefits to the Company and its
shareholders as a result of the proposed acquisitions and partnerships;
the effectiveness of the extraction technology; the expected benefits
for Empower’s patient base and customers; the benefits of CBD based
products; the effect of the approval of the Farm Bill; the growth of the
Company’s patient list and that the Company will be positioned to be a
market-leading service provider for complex patient requirements in 2019
and beyond. Such statements are only projections, are based on
assumptions known to management at this time, and are subject to risks
and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or
developments to differ materially from those contained in the
forward-looking statements, including; that the Company may not open a
hemp-based CBD extraction facility; that legislative changes may have an
adverse effect on the Company’s business and product development; that
the Company may not be able to obtain adequate financing to pursue its
business plan; general business, economic, competitive, political and
social uncertainties; failure to obtain any necessary approvals in
connection with the proposed acquisitions and partnerships; and other
factors beyond the Company’s control. No assurance can be given that any
of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur
or, if they do occur, what benefits the Company will obtain from them.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking
statements in this release, which are qualified in their entirety by
these cautionary statements. The Company is under no obligation, and
expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any
forward-looking statements in this release, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by
applicable laws.
Tags: CSE, Hemp, Marijuana, small cap, small cap stocks, stocks Posted in Empower Clinics Inc. | Comments Off on Empower Clinics $CBDT.ca Announces Advancement of Joint Venture with Heritage Cannabis in the United States $WEED.ca $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $OGI.ca
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 7:02 AM on Wednesday, March 4th, 2020
Patient visits in corporate clinics increased by 800% in February 2020 versus the same period in 2019
Total patient visits of 1,817 in February 2020 compared to 227 in February 2019
VANCOUVER, BC / March 4, 2020 / EMPOWER CLINICS INC. (CSE: CBDT) (OTC: EPWCF) (Frankfurt 8EC) (“Empower” or the “Company“), a vertically integrated and growth-oriented life sciences company, is pleased to announce that patient visits in corporate clinics increased by 800% in February 2020 versus the same period in 2019, with total patient visits of 1,817 in February 2020 compared to 227 in February 2019.
“Patient volumes have remained strong to start the year in all
clinics, continuing on our push for a record first quarter.” said Dustin
Klein, SVP Business Development and Director of Empower. “Operational
excellence each day, combined with exemplary care for the patient, sets
us apart in the markets we serve.”
The Company also has received numerous inquiries with both positive
and supportive sentiment, after the recent announcement of the Company’s
intention to create a psilocybin and psychedelics division.
“Getting positive reinforcement from researchers, physicians,
advocates and practitioners about our intention to enter this developing
field of study, gives me confidence that we have made the correct
decision to leverage our corporate assets for psilocybin and
psychedelics research and development.” said Steven McAuley, Chairman
& CEO of Empower.
ABOUT EMPOWER
Empower is a vertically-integrated health & wellness brand with
it’s first hemp-derived CBD extraction facility under development, the
Company produces its proprietary line of cannabidiol (CBD) based
products and distributes products through company owned and franchised
clinics, with wholesale partnerships, online channels and with new
retail opportunities nationwide in the U.S. The company is a leading
multi-state operator of a network of physician-staffed wellness clinics,
focused on helping patients improve and protect their health, through
innovative physician recommended treatment options. The company has
commenced activity on how to connect its significant data, to the
potential of the efficacy of alternative treatment options related to
hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) therapies.
Investors: Dustin Klein SVP, Business Development [email protected] 720-352-1398
For French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc., E: [email protected], T: (888) 585-MARI
DISCLAIMER FOR FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements”
or “forward-looking information” (collectively “forward looking
statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws.
All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are
forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and
projections as at the date of this news release.Forward-looking statements
can frequently be identified by words such as “plans”, “continues”,
“expects”, “projects”, “intends”, “believes”, “anticipates”,
“estimates”, “may”, “will”, “potential”, “proposed” and other similar
words, or information that certain events or conditions “may” or “will”
occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include
statements regarding; the Company’s intention to open a hemp-based CBD
extraction facility, the expected benefits to the Company and its
shareholders as a result of the proposed acquisitions and partnerships;
the effectiveness of the extraction technology; the expected benefits
for Empower’s patient base and customers; the benefits of CBD based
products; the effect of the approval of the Farm Bill; the growth of the
Company’s patient list and that the Company will be positioned to be a
market-leading service provider for complex patient requirements in 2019
and beyond. Such statements are only projections, are based on
assumptions known to management at this time, and are subject to risks
and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or
developments to differ materially from those contained in the
forward-looking statements, including; that the Company may not open a
hemp-based CBD extraction facility; that legislative changes may have an
adverse effect on the Company’s business and product development; that
the Company may not be able to obtain adequate financing to pursue its
business plan; general business, economic, competitive, political and
social uncertainties; failure to obtain any necessary approvals in
connection with the proposed acquisitions and partnerships; and other
factors beyond the Company’s control. No assurance can be given that any
of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur
or, if they do occur, what benefits the Company will obtain from them.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking
statements in this release, which are qualified in their entirety by
these cautionary statements. The Company is under no obligation, and
expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any
forward-looking statements in this release, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by
applicable laws.
SOURCE: Empower Clinics Inc.
Tags: CSE, Hemp, Marijuana, small cap, small cap stocks, stocks Posted in Empower Clinics Inc. | Comments Off on Empower Clinics $CBDT.ca Announces Significant Patient Growth in February 2020 with Visits Increasing by 800% $WEED.ca $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $OGI.ca
Proprietary technology platforms including Electronic Health Records portal and e-Commerce for CBD product distribution
Recently launched CBD extraction facility
First extraction system capacity = 2,300 Kg per year.
CBD based products are poised to be a $20B global industry by 2022
Medical cannabis is poised to be a $100B global industry by 2025
Company to Create Psilocybin and Psychadelics Division Leveraging Corporate Wellness Clinics and Franchise Clinic Network
CBD consumption to rise across the treatment of neurological conditions
Research shows that CBD consumption for the treatment of neurological conditions is set to rise.
With an exponential rise in the availability of CBD products and public opinion towards it becoming more positive over the past decade, the consumption of the ingredient has exploded.
Global Market Insights, Inc., forecasts that global cannabidiol market size will be worth more than $89bn by 2026.
However, the industry will need to overcome the complex regulatory
landscape as well as quality and supply challenges in the near future.
Over the past few years, cannabidiol, or CBD, has caught the public’s
imagination as an ingredient presenting a range of health benefits when
infused in various consumables. More and more individuals worldwide are
now vouching for its effectiveness in terms of alleviating certain
chronic illnesses and treating several health conditions.
CBD has conquered industry after industry, from pharmaceuticals to
personal care and cosmetics, food and beverages, and nutraceuticals.
Cannabidiol is the legal and non-psychoactive counterpart of
tetrahydro cannabidiol (THC), the chemical compound responsible for
cannabis’s psychological effects. CBD is the second most-commonly used
active ingredients of cannabis.
The cannabinoid is derived directly from the hemp plant, a cousin of
the cannabis plant, and forms an essential component of medical
cannabis.
CBD regulatory landscape in Europe
Factors such as population growth, nationalised healthcare, GDP, and
cultural historic use of CBD in many European countries make the
continent an attractive market for global producers of both medical and
retail cannabis-based products. Hemp cultivation in the region has
witnessed a massive upsurge in recent years; the European Union (EU)
constitutes more than 25% of the global hemp production.
In July last year Epidiolex CBD oil
received a positive recommendation for marketing approval from the
European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the treatment of seizures. EMA’s
Human Medicines Committee (CHMP) approved the oral solution for use with
clobazam for the treatment of seizures associated with Dravet syndrome
or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in patients aged two or more.
The European Commission granted marketing approval to Epidyolex, the
trade name for Epidiolex in Europe, in September 2019. Epidiolex is the
only federally-approved CBD product in the U.S.
Additionally, the use of CBD in cosmetics is harmonised within the European Cosmetic Regulation 1223/2009.
The regulation prohibits the use of cannabis and its derivatives in
cosmetic products. Essentially, EU prohibits the use of CBD derived
naturally from cannabis plants. However, the use of hemp-derived or
synthetically-produced cannabidiol is approved.
Europe CBD market is poised to witness monumental growth in the
forthcoming years on account of surging consumer demand for
safe-strength CBD products that are easily available in their normal
retail environments and cultivated, extracted, processed and labelled as
per the European standards.
Growing burden of neurological diseases in Europe
Europe has witnessed a growing occurrence of various neurological
conditions in recent years. These include epilepsy, migraine, stress,
anxiety, and numerous sleeping disorders. An expanding geriatric
population base indicates rising incidences of these conditions. Citing
data from the European Brain Council, more than 220 million people in Europe
suffer from at least one neurological condition, which is more than the
populations of France, Germany, and the Great Britain combined.
Described below are some of the most prevalent neurological
conditions in Europe and the effectiveness of CBD in their treatment.
Stress and anxiety – Nearly 25% of the European population suffers
from stress, anxiety or depression each year. The effectiveness of CBD
products as anti-anxiety nutraceuticals is backed with plenty of
research, however there is still a long way to go. Several clinical
trials have provided considerable evidence of cannabidiol’s usefulness
for the treatment of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social
anxiety disorder, and panic disorder;
Migraine – Migraine currently affects more than 11% of the global
population. The social societal burden of migraine in Europe is an
approximately €27bn
per year. While pain medications are known to help temporarily
alleviate the symptoms of migraine, they can have several side-effects.
Research concerning the use of cannabidiol for migraine is limited
however a number of laboratory studies suggest that CBD oil may help
reduce all types of acute and chronic pain, including migraine; and
Seizures – In Europe, close to six. million people suffer from
epilepsy, while 15 million people will have at least one seizure at some
point during their lifetime. Numerous research studies over the years
have demonstrated the benefits and effectiveness of hemp-derived CBD
products in patients with epilepsy who have not responded to traditional
treatment.
Surging popularity of cannabidiol among boomers along with ongoing
research and development into its potential health benefits will augment
CBD market forecast. More and more boomers are adding CBD to their
health regimes to help reduce stress and anxiety, get better sleep, and
alleviate chronic pain. Increasing awareness towards the safety and
efficacy of cannabidiol products will drive future CBD industry trends.
Rockville, MD—U.S. retail sales of cannabis and
cannabidiol (CBD) products reached $14 billion in 2019, and are on pace
to increase 18% per year to $33 billion in 2024, according to data
published in a new report from Packaged Facts titled Cannabis and CBD: U.S. Retail Market Trends and Opportunities.
The most common delivery format for cannabis, the flower—smoked as
buds or as cigarettes—accounts for nearly 40% of retail sales, according
to a press release. Vaporizer cartridges with concentrated THC or CBD
compounds takes the second largest share, but it’s falling, as concerns
about vaping-related lung illnesses rise. Edibles and topicals are
predicted to rise, and to rise quickly, as they stand to benefit the
most from legalization of hemp-based CBD; major retailers are already
offering CBD-infused food and beverages, as well as CBD-infused
cosmetics.
The report analyzes cannabis and cannabis-related retail trends and
opportunities in the U.S., with a focus on multi-state cannabis
dispensary operators and food and beverage introductions, as well as
market trends by state. It also includes a detailed analysis of
cannabis-related legal and regulatory trends at the federal and state
levels. The report can be purchased here.
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 3:41 PM on Monday, February 10th, 2020
Highlights
Lithium Processing: technology initiatives, patent formalization, battery recycling process and lithium metal manufacturing;
Pilot plant potentially de-risked through discussions with ready-built facilities;
Montreal, Montreal -Â February 10, 2020 – St-Georges Eco-Mining Corp. (CSE:SX)Â (CNSX:SX.CN)Â (OTC:SXOOF) (FSE:85G1)Â would like to update its shareholders on its on-going corporate developments.
In
the past six months, St-Georges has successfully executed its strategy
to strengthen and expand its focus on its green extraction metallurgical
processes development and re-center its exploration efforts on energy
metals in Quebec and Iceland. The team has also added a
Palladium-Rhodium project in Quebec and has advanced its Thor Gold
Project in Iceland to drill-ready status. Significant changes in the
Company operations, namely the sale of King of the North in September
and the spin-off of ZeU Crypto Networks Inc. in December, has allowed
the Company to free up resources that can now be allocated to the core
competencies of the Company.
Highlights
– Lithium Processing: technology initiatives, patent formalization, battery recycling process and lithium metal manufacturing;
– Pilot plant potentially de-risked through discussions with ready-built facilities;
– Hydro-Dam Project in Iceland advancing on its environmental permits;
– Status of Other Holdings.
Mineral Processing Research & Development
Lithium Processing Technology
Stage
I of the development of the Company’s lithium processing technology, in
collaboration with Iconic Minerals (TSX-V: ICM), was completed in the
first half of 2019 (See July 24, 2019 Press Release). Following the
delivery of the Stage I independent report to ICM, St-Georges has
accelerated the work and obtained results on many tasks that are part of
Stage II and Stage III of the planned development.
On-going testing has confirmed, so far, the portability of the process developed for sediments to hard rock sources of lithium.
The
Company is looking at opportunities to apply its technologies to other
advanced mining projects, in particular, ones that currently produce
spodumene concentrate, but have not yet decided to build an expensive
tech plant for refining. Potential adopters of the technology have been
identified, and discussions initiated. In addition, the Company is
looking at the potential to retrofit existing facilities. Management
will update the public on the status of these discussions when
materiality requires it.
St-Georges
filed the final documentation with the US Patent Office allowing its
patent application to move from its provisional status to the formal
patent application stage. The Company also filed a PCT application for
the same patent potentially giving it protection in an additional 152
countries. The final version of the patent application now allows for
the recovery of lithium from recycled batteries. St-Georges intends to
position itself as an ideal partner to provide strategic materials to
the battery industry, which includes recycling and recovery of the new
generation of batteries, including solid-state batteries. Additionally,
this patent application covers recycling as well as lithium metal and
alloys manufacturing.
Pilot Plant(s)
St-Georges’
management and the metallurgical team have worked on the design, the
sourcing of equipment, and the financial aspects of its proposed pilot
plant for the better part of the last six months. In an effort to lower
the risk of the proposal, the team has initiated discussions with
ready-built facilities with extra capacity. This could allow St-Georges
to build its pilot plant’s processing circuit faster with only minor
modifications to the ready-built facilities. Early estimates confirm
that capital expenditure should only be a fraction of the original
budgeted cost as the Company will be leasing the facilities long-term.
The Company expects to have secured an agreement for the pilot plant
facilities in Q2 2020.
Mineral Exploration
Julie Nickel Project
Following
last year’s fieldwork, the Company’s geological team and exploration
sub-contractors are planning additional drilling on the Julie Nickel
property. The exploration plan for the coming years will be presented to
the local stakeholders and First Nations in Q1, and the updated
permitting request should be filed by Q2 for work in early summer.
Additional bulk sampling should be performed to advance a nickel-iron
initiative by the Company’s metallurgical team.
Preliminary discussions are on-going with a ferronickel consortium planning a project in Quebec.
Manicouagan Palladium-Rhodium Project
Much
like the Julie Project, the Manicouagan Project has nickel and copper
that meets the conventional concentrates requirements based on the type
of sulphates it contains. Additionally, the recrystallized nature of
this region lends itself to higher recoveries of each crystal form and
better conversion.
The
presence of well-known high-grade Palladium-Rhodium-Ruthenium surface
showings (See January 27, 2020, Press Release), regardless of size,
allows St-Georges to significantly reduce its costs to acquire PGE
concentrate material for metallurgical bench testing of its processing
and refining metallurgical process for Palladium-Rhodium-Ruthenium.
St-Georges
exploration team is planning a pre-drilling surface campaign to obtain
permitting to intervene on-site in mid-summer. At the same time,
St-Georges’ management is having early-stage discussions with potential
farm-in or earn-in partners to advance the project at a faster pace.
Borealis EHF
The
hybrid decentralized and distributed ledger-driven derivative trading
platform is coming together at a good pace. Regulatory discussions are
now in control of the timeline for the delivery of the platform.
Islensk Vatnsorka Hf – Iceland Hydro-Electric Dam Project
Islensk
informed the Company that the permitting process is moving within the
expected timeline and according to expectations. The Company still
believes that the project will be fully permitted by the end of 2020.
Iceland Resources EHF/St-Georges Iceland ltd
On
August 21, 2019, the Icelandic authorities approved St-Georges’
previously disclosed work program for the coming year (See March 2, 2019
Press Release). The core projects have seen a fair share of exploration
work, while some secondary projects have been repeatedly delayed due to
extreme weather conditions in northern and eastern Iceland.
Work
on the Thor Gold Project has brought it to drill-ready status. Surface
rights and environmental conditions are no longer problematic, and the
Company has requested a legal opinion to confirm that it can drill on
the sole basis of its central government license.
The
Company did, however, take samples at Thor during the winter season
that are currently being analyzed. The Company is now preparing a bulk
sample program at Thor. The material will be sent to be processed in
Canada as soon as the weather allows it sometime in Q2.
The
Company is currently in discussions to acquire the balance of the
surface rights that escape its ownership on the project and is looking
to acquire the last portion equity own by a third party in the Thor Gold
Project.
Status of other holdings
The Company currently holds the following assets as of January 31, 2020.
Vilhjalmur Thor Vilhjalmsson, President and CEO of St-Georges, commented: “(…)
the last six months have been for the Company both challenging but
exciting. With the successful listing of ZeU Crypto Networks Inc., the
sale of KOTN, funding above market prices, and now faster-than-expected
progress in regards to the pilot plant, the team has shown its
capabilities to deliver.”
St-Georges
is developing new technologies to solve some of the most common
environmental problems in the mining industry. The Company controls
directly or indirectly, through rights of first refusal, all the active
mineral tenures in Iceland. It also explores for nickel-copper-cobalt
and Palladium-Palladium-Rhodium-Ruthenium on the Julie Nickel Project
& the Manicouagan Palladium-Rhodium Project on the Quebec’s North
Shore. Headquartered in Montreal, St-Georges’ stock is listed on the CSE
under the symbol SX, on the US OTC under the Symbol SXOOF and on the
Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol 85G1.
The
Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept
responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this
release.
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