News Hub | News Direct

Healthcare

Addiction Biotech Cannabis Genetics Healthcare Medical Devices Pharmaceutical Science Veterinary
Article thumbnail News Release

ANGLE achieves breakthrough with EU patent for CellKeep technology, with the US to follow

ANGLE PLC

ANGLE PLC chief executive Andrew Newland discussed significant advancements in the company's technology, including a European patent for the CellKeep slide, with US intellectual property protection from the US set to follow soon. Newland told Proactive's Stephen Gunnion that CellKeep significantly improves the deposition of cancer cells on microscope slides, a common issue in medical laboratories. This method notably reduces cell loss during the transfer process by over 70%, addressing a longstanding problem in the industry. The innovation involves a special funnel attached to the slide, allowing gentle centrifugation and liquid removal while maintaining cell integrity, thereby increasing the effectiveness of subsequent analyses. Additionally, Newland highlighted the development of optimized antibodies for cell phenotyping, which are integrated into ANGLE's Parsortix system. This integration is packaged as the Portrait Plus CTC Staining Kit, simplifying the process for less experienced labs and extending market reach. The kit includes a mix of dehydrated antibodies, designed for ease of use and long shelf life, enhancing the diagnostic process's reliability and efficiency. Commercially, ANGLE has introduced these innovations in a comprehensive kit format, priced at £3,000 for ten samples, significantly enhancing the company’s value offering. Newland also touched on ANGLE’s positive business trajectory, mentioning a breakthrough in DNA profiling and a substantial contract with a major pharmaceutical company, which could potentially yield significant revenues through the development of companion diagnostics. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 23, 2024 09:17 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Capturing Consumer Spending on Health Care with XLV

Select Sector SPDR

With consumer spending on health care continuing to increase, the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund ( XLV ) provides an opportunity for investors to leverage this trend. XLV tracks health care stocks within the S&P 500 Index, offering broad exposure to core companies in the U.S. healthcare sector. The fund's top holdings* are comprised of market leaders across several sub-sectors of healthcare including companies such as Eli LIlly & Co (11.34%), Unitedhealth Group (8.36%), Johnson & Johnson (6.96%), Merck & Co (6.11%), AbbVie Inc. (5.87%), Thermo Fisher Scientific (4.10%), Abbott Laboratories (3.61%), Danaher Corp (3.00%), Pfizer (2.86%), and Amgen (2.78%). Growth Drivers in the Healthcare Sector As the health care sector continues to grow, these companies are well-positioned to benefit from increased consumer spending. The growth history in this sector has been driven by several factors, including a rise in chronic diseases, an aging population, and advancing medical technology. Total spending on health care rose from 16% of GDP in 2007 to an estimated 18% in 2023. Simultaneously, the total GDP has risen nearly 70% in that time, from 14.47 trillion in 2007 to 25.5 trillion in 2022. Investing in XLV offers a diversified way to capture steady consumer spending on health care. By investing in the health care market in a broad way, the ups and downs of a particular big name in the sector are mitigated by the exposure to other healthcare companies. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. *Holdings, Weightings & Assets as of 3/31/24 subject to change DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007449 EXP 5/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

April 22, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Hydrogen Utopia CEO discusses advances in cannabis operation and future hydrogen projects

Hydrogen Utopia International PLC

Hydrogen Utopia International PLC (LSE:HUI, OTCQB:HUIPF) CEO Aleksandra Binkowska joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion to discuss progress at the company’s cannabis operation in Macedonia, highlighting two successful harvests and ongoing developments. Binkowska noted the company has a 49% option in Ohrid Organics, highlighting its impressive facilities and high-tech enhancements, including an advanced drying system that significantly improves product quality. Binkowska emphasized the importance of the location’s natural benefits and technological enhancements for achieving high-quality outputs. Currently, Hydrogen Utopia is awaiting laboratory results to officially confirm the product quality, which is necessary for obtaining the requisite governmental paperwork for product sales. She mentioned preparations for EU GMP certification audits, which will facilitate entry into the European market at higher certification levels, potentially allowing for a higher product price point. Furthermore, Binkowska outlined the financial success of Ohrid Organics, projecting earnings that would fund Hydrogen Utopia’s first waste plastics hydrogen facility. The profits from Ohrid could potentially finance this without additional capital raising, underscoring the strategic advantage of the investment. She also highlighted the supportive role of the Macedonian government in facilitating the company's initiatives in both the cannabis and hydrogen sectors. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 18, 2024 08:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

MJ ATTACHÉ LAUNCHES BUSINESS WITH DEBUT OF FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND LUXURY CACHE-AND-CARRY BAG FOR CANNABIS CONNOISSEURS, IN TIME FOR APRIL 20, CANNABIS CELEBRATION DAY

MJ Attaché

MJ Attaché, a designer and developer of luxury Italian-made leather bags and accessories for the cannabis connoisseur, announced today the official launch of the business. The commencement of MJ Attaché is marked by the introduction of the first-of-its-kind, premium, 100% Italian leather bag, The Anthony, carefully curated for cannabis cache and carry. The Anthony’s debut comes just in time for April 20 th, a day when cannabis is celebrated. MJ Attaché’s bags are market-disrupting; they boast patent-pending modular elements -- not found in any other bag -- that encourage a personalized cannabis experience specific to each one’s individual consumption needs. Catering to both male and female cannabis users, The Anthony’s novel magnetic, re-attachable accessories are fully customizable. Elements inside the bag can be easily added or deleted, depending on what each user prefers for their cannabis self-care ritual. Cleverly crafted by hand in Florence, Italy of the finest Italian leather, The Anthony’s features distinguish it from any other cannabis carry-all bag currently available in the market. Available in five colors, The Anthony bag includes a secure lock closure, removable smooth leather rolling tray, modular elements for customization, such as a pipe case, lighter sleeve, jar sleeve a smell-proof glass jar and a removable, adjustable crossbody strap. The combination of the leather and smell-proof jar aids in disguising odors and keep contents discreet. The MJ Attaché brand challenges outdated, inaccurate stereotypes of cannabis consumers by offering mainstream users a way to elevate their cache-and-carry preferences and experiences. Cannabis has come a long way from its prior perceptions, and MJ Attaché recognizes its broader adoption by users spanning the spectrum. Like many entrepreneurs, ideas are often spurred by personal experience. MJ Attaché is no exception. Founder Christy Fuicelli created the brand and designed its premium bag when she was personally searching for a sophisticated, safe and discreet carry-all solution for her cannabis and accessories. She came up emptyhanded when shopping for options of the same high-quality, sophistication and style to which she was accustomed. Fuicelli believed this void in the marketplace stemmed from stigmas associated with overall cannabis use and she set out to change the market landscape with the design, development and introduction of The Anthony. “I went on a crusade to create a stylish, luxury, handcrafted bag many would be proud to carry. With its impeccable style, quality Italian leather components and customizable modular system, The Anthony bag transcends the outdated “stoner” stereotypes cannabis users are often perceived as and creates the ultimate luxury cannabis experience. I travelled on this journey witnessing nearly a dozen iterations of The Anthony until I was pleased because I could not find a functional, sophisticated, stylish and well-made cannabis transport option, which sparked my interest in developing one myself,” entrepreneur Fuicelli said. “Additionally, I was determined to challenge preconceived notions relating to cannabis use stereotypes. Many people use cannabis medicinally as well as to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. For me, my cannabis use not only helped alleviate certain medical conditions but also can be directly attributed to the deep creativity it ignited in me, sparking my idea for The Anthony and other bags and accessories in the MJ Attaché product line. I am hoping adoption of The Anthony and other MJ Attaché offerings will simplify the lives of cannabis users around the world. The Anthony truly marks an entry into a market where no other bag like it exists,” Fuicelli concluded. The Anthony, with a price point of $2,150.00, can be purchased here. Looking ahead, MJ Attaché is currently developing other cannabis bag styles and accessories, which are slated for introduction into the marketplace in the latter part of 2024. About MJ Attaché Denver-based MJ Attaché is a designer and developer of high-quality, handmade Italian leather bags and accessories for the cannabis connoisseur. The luxury brand, with its moniker MJ (short for Mary Jane an alias for marijuana), was founded by entrepreneur Christy Fuicelli, a stylish cannabis user. She realized a void in the marketplace to cache and carry her cannabis in a discreet manor reflective of the luxury she enjoyed in other personal products she owned and believed this stemmed from stigmas associated with cannabis use. Determined to bridge this gap, MJ Attaché was born. Fuicelli set out to create a premium bag that would appeal to both male and female cannabis users. She spent years designing and creating beautifully crafted bags that embody elevated style, sophistication, high quality and fine craftmanship. By bringing ease and style to the cannabis industry with her bags, MJ Attaché brings the first accessory of its kind, The Anthony bag, to the marketplace. For more information, visit www.mjattache.com and connect with the Company and its products on Facebook and Instagram. Contact Details PAIRELATIONS, LLC for MJ Attaché Susan J. Turkell +1 303-766-4343 sturkell@pairelations.com

April 17, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Isospec Analytics raises $1.9m as it introduces breakthrough technology to rapidly identify unknown molecules at scale

Isospec Analytics

When developing new drugs, nutitional products, or pesticides, it’s critical that unknown molecules are identified correctly. But accurate identification is a lengthy process and all too often unsuccessful, leading to failed regulatory processes, or worse, consumer health being put in danger. Today, Isospec Analytics has raised $1.9M to commercialize new technologies for molecular analysis that rapidly identify unknown molecules in minutes, helping pharmaceuticals, nutrition and agritech companies develop safer products and enabling researchers to discover new biomarkers. Isospec’s $1.9M pre-seed round is led by Founderful (formerly Wingman Ventures), with additional participation from specialized investors Tiny.vc, another.vc and Venture Kick. Isospec was founded in 2022 by Ahmed Ben Faleh, Stephan Warnke, and Thomas Rizzo, who partnered together to explore how they could redefine the process of molecular analysis to access new biological information and enable breakthroughs in diagnostics, therapeutics, and nutrition. Based on over 20 years of research, the founders combined technologies from multiple disciplines – analytical chemistry, photonics, and cryogenic materials initially designed for space applications – to build a tool that can generate a new data dimension about molecular structures. This allows for the identification of molecules which were, until now, unknown. Today, identifying an unknown molecule is primarily based on mass analysis, which does not provide sufficient information. Identifying a by-product or an impurity requires the combination of high sensitivity to detect trace amounts in a sample, coupled with the ability to generate data that can definitively identify the structure of a molecule. Existing tools lack either one or both of these capabilities. “Unfortunately, mass alone does not uniquely determine the structure of a molecule. Several different molecules can have exactly the same mass, called isomers, but totally different properties. For example, one isomer might be toxic, while another may be a life-saving therapeutic,” said Thomas Rizzo, Professor of Chemistry at EPFL. Definitive molecular identification currently requires the combination of several techniques and a lengthy process including purification and multiple syntheses. Companies developing new products are thus faced with a dilemma: either spend months identifying unknowns and delay their go-to-market, or move forward based on guesses and risk failing regulatory requirements and endanger consumer health. In comparison, Isospec’s technology generates unique, information-rich metrics that allow for the rapid identification of unknown molecules in minutes instead of months, bringing unprecedented scalability to molecular identification. “By adding infrared analysis directly inside a mass spectrometer, we have a valuable new dimension by which to identify molecules,” adds Professor Thomas Rizzo. Originating from the Laboratory of Molecular Physical Chemistry (LCPM) at EPFL, Isospec’s breakthrough technology is already being used in the analysis of sugars and metabolites within the food and agritech industry to carry out quality control and support product R&D. However, the team believes the real potential of their technology is in the discovery of new biomarkers for therapeutics development and diagnostics. “In a human blood sample, there are 15,000 small biological molecules that can give precise information about a person’s health at any given time. However, less than 5% of these molecules can be identified. The ability to rapidly identify new molecules means we can now leverage the 95% unknown molecular space to develop treatments to the deadliest diseases,” said co-founder and CEO Dr. Ahmed Ben Faleh. These combined use cases were compelling for Isospec’s investors. “Isospec’s value proposition, which offers early access to its cutting-edge research in biomolecular analysis as a service, convinced us of the potential of the technology and the team,” explains Alex Stöckl, partner at Founderful and board member of Isospec. “Isospec is one of the first 8 companies in which we have invested with our second fund, which aims to reach $120M.” The team is currently working on the scalability of their platform, introducing automation at every step and implementing machine learning tools for data analysis and insight generation. “This round allows us to build a software team composed of experts in data engineering,” said Dr Ahmed Ben Faleh. Against the highly competitive backdrop of the sugar and metabolite analytical markets, Isospec is setting its sights on becoming the leading provider of molecular analysis solutions and biomarker discovery technology. About Isospec Isospec Analytics is an EPFL spin-off based in Lausanne – Switzerland, whose mission is to implement technology to discover new disease biomarkers, accelerate the development of therapeutics and transform the future of clinical nutrition. For more information please visit IsoSpec Analytics About Founderful Founderful is Switzerland’s leading pre-seed fund. We give every founder our deepest understanding and highest levels of support, and together, we’re building the future of the Swiss startup ecosystem. Contact Details isospec Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://www.isospecanalytics.com/

April 16, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

NuggMD to Again Offer Cannabis Support Line, the Too-High Hotline, on 4/20

NuggMD

NuggMD, the nation's leading medical marijuana telemedicine platform, is once again helping accidental cannabis over-indulgers find support this 4/20 with its Too-High Hotline. The hotline (323-518-2728), first established last April, is a resource for consumers who, for whatever reason—cough, cough—want a friendly voice who will converse with them, calm them down, or just listen. States have seen an explosion in much-needed harm- and anxiety-reduction measures, thanks to the reduced stigma around cannabis use. Still, many Americans resist seeking help for highly emotional psychedelic experiences because cannabis is still illegal at the federal level. This results in unguided use by consumers who are unprepared to handle unusual mental effects. It is why emergency-room visits for the overconsumption of cannabis usually spike on April 20. “To be clear: Yes, this is a real service. Anyone who consumes, or consumes too much, this April 20 can call us and talk to us about whatever they want to. No judgments,” said Alex Milligan, co-founder and CMO of NuggMD. He continued: “There is also a serious side to the 4/20 holiday that I hope gets more attention this year. The cannabis movement acknowledges the need for harm-reduction measures as the substance continues to gain mainstream acceptance. Use of the plant affects different people in different ways, and the truth is that some of those effects are negative or unpleasant. So, beyond setting up the Too-High Hotline every April, we are committed to consumer empowerment and education every day throughout the year.” NuggMD’s Too-High Hotline is available to everyone in the United States this 4/20 to offer support during or after their cannabis experience. NuggMD is also educating patients about harm reduction and support options through a dedicated landing page, nationwide email notifications to its network of more than a million patients, and additional ongoing campaigns focused on harm reduction and safe consumption. To learn more about NuggMD’s Too High Hotline, please visit https://www.nuggmd.com/support. About NuggMD NuggMD is the nation's leading medical marijuana technology platform, serving patients in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. They've connected over 1,300,000 patients face-to-face with their new medical marijuana doctors via their state-of-the-art telemedicine platform. They believe every human being has the right to explore the benefits of medical cannabis and are fully committed to helping each patient explore every option in their journey to wellness. For further information, visit https://www.nuggmd.com. Contact Details Andrew Graham +1 646-385-0189 andrew.g@getnugg.com Company Website http://www.nuggmd.com

April 15, 2024 04:41 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Comtex Launches Omnia: A Cutting-Edge News API Platform leveraging NLP and AI

Comtex

Comtex News Network, Inc (Comtex), a leading provider of news aggregation and distribution services to top firms in financial services, news publishing, syndication, and analytics, proudly announces the launch of its innovative API platform, Omnia. Omnia is a state-of-the-art API platform designed to revolutionize the way businesses access and utilize news content. Omnia empowers users with instant access to real-time streaming news, AI-generated article summaries, enhanced tagging and categorization based on NLP, advanced filtering, and access to an extensive catalog of curated news sources. Key Features of Omnia Include: Real-time Streaming News: Omnia provides real-time streaming news via websockets push and REST API for seamless integration into existing systems. Enhanced Tagging and Categorization: Leveraging AI and proprietary NLP-based algorithms, Omnia offers enhanced tagging and categorization of content, including press releases, earnings releases, product categories, and more. AI-Generated Article Summaries: Omnia utilizes AI to generate concise and searchable article summaries, enabling users to quickly grasp an article before reading it. Advanced Filtering: Omnia's advanced filtering capabilities allow users to customize their news feeds based on specific criteria, ensuring they receive only the most relevant content. Access to an extensive collection of curated, high-quality sources used by top companies in financial services, analytics, research and a broad range of industries. Omnia is designed for rapid integration and serves a variety of use cases, including training of LLMs, financial platforms, asset management, trading, academic research, legal research, market research, and much more. Commenting on the launch, Comtex CEO Kan Devnani said, "We are pleased to bring a flexible, state-of-the-art news platform with access to curated, premium news sources to market. Omnia is an extendable platform, combining AI with our rich experience applying NLP to news content. This will allow clients to derive more intelligence and insights from the news content we offer and help clients curate and identify the content most relevant to them. Comtex will use Omnia to deliver evolving analytics and insight to its users." Access to Omnia can be trialed by visiting https://www.comtex.com/api. Comtex encourages users to explore its features and capabilities. To learn more about Omnia and request a demo, please contact sales@comtex.com or visit https://www.comtex.com/api. About Comtex News Network, Inc (Comtex): Comtex News Network Inc (Comtex) is a leading provider of news aggregation services to top firms in financial services, news publishing, syndication, and analytics. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Comtex delivers comprehensive news solutions that empower businesses to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition. Comtex also offers syndication services to content providers and platforms to generate traffic to online content. Contact Details Comtex News Network Media Relations sales@comtex.com

April 12, 2024 02:01 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Select Sector SPDR ETFs: A Strategic Approach to Precision Investing and Customized Portfolios

Select Sector SPDR

In the dynamic world of investing, Exchange-Traded Funds ( ETFs ) have proved to be a powerful tool for investors seeking diversification, flexibility, and potentially a more sector-driven approach. Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer a focused approach to sector investing, enabling investors to specifically target sectors within the broader market. This method of investment strategy is designed to arm investors with greater control and flexibility over their portfolios. Select Sector SPDR ETFs segment the S&P 500 into 11 investable sectors, covering all broad market segments. They provide access to various industries, allowing investors to craft a diversified portfolio that aligns with their unique investment goals. This approach presents an excellent opportunity for both individual and institutional investors to effectively navigate the financial markets. Each ETF comprises well-known, large-cap companies from the S&P 500, ensuring broad exposure and diversification. The transparent nature of ETFs allows for daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings, providing investors with visibility into their investments. The full lineup of Select Sector SPDR ETFs includes: Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLC) Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP) Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE) Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF) Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV) Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI) Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB) Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLRE) Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU) These ETFs provide flexible, transparent, and low-cost investment options to both retail and institutional investors. The flexibility offered by these ETFs empowers investors to make strategic adjustments in their portfolios as market conditions change. This flexibility, combined with the transparency of daily disclosure of portfolio holdings, allows investors to always be aware of where their money is invested. Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer a unique opportunity to invest in various sectors with precision and flexibility. They provide a simplified approach to sector investing, allowing investors to customize their portfolios to meet their specific investment objectives. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007439 EXP 5/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

April 12, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Most cannabis consumers would vote for pro-cannabis candidates regardless of party, new polling finds

NuggMD

A majority of cannabis consumers who are likely to vote this November would cast their ballot for a pro-cannabis presidential candidate regardless of that candidate’s party, according to a new poll that sheds light on how aligned cannabis consumers are as a voting bloc and what they think about this year's presidential election. When asked whether a presidential candidate’s endorsement of pro-cannabis policies would increase their likelihood of voting for that candidate, 59% of the respondents said: “Yes, this would make me more likely to vote for that candidate regardless of their party.” Just 14% of respondents said they are locked into voting for their party or candidate of choice. The poll was conducted by NuggMD.com, the largest telehealth platform for cannabis, using its own first-party data. The full results are available on the company’s website. It shows President Biden outperforming Donald Trump, 43% to 36%, among those who use cannabis regularly, a population of at least 35 million voting-age people. President Biden also polled well ahead of a generic Republican candidate, while Trump was roughly tied with a generic Democratic candidate. Concerning cannabis policy, the Democratic Party polled better than the GOP among this audience. Fifty-six percent of respondents said Democratic electeds have better ideas for cannabis policy, compared to 16% who said the same of Republicans. But this support is neither universal nor particularly intense. Nearly 40% of respondents indicated that they believe Democrats “want to suppress the legal use of cannabis,” while 68% said the same of Republicans. While 88% of respondents said understanding cannabis culture is a requirement for writing and passing effective cannabis legislation, 73% said elected officials in general currently lack that understanding. “This poll shows that adopting pro-cannabis policies can move more constituents into either party’s camp,” said Deb Tharp, head of legal and policy research at NuggMD. “This is a large voting population we’re talking about, and its demographics are changing quickly.” She continued: “Respondents say they’re motivated by policy commitments and wins, not by grievance politics, outrage, or red meat. The degree to which this emerging constituency is moveable, and how to move them, will probably come as a surprise to insiders of both parties. “To me, it signals that Republicans are shooting themselves in the foot by continuing to embrace the platform of prohibition. Democrats should double down on cannabis and expand their voting base by embracing full decriminalization and expungement for victims of targeted, unjust enforcement.” Methodology NuggMD.com conducted the poll digitally from March 25 to April 3 using a random sample of its first-party data. In total, 53,380 individuals were contacted and 755 completed the survey, resulting in a margin of error of 3.89% at a confidence level of 95%. Six swing states (n=120 in aggregate) were over-indexed. The full data set is available upon request. About NuggMD NuggMD is the nation's leading medical marijuana technology platform, serving patients in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. They've connected over 1,300,000 patients face-to-face with their new medical marijuana doctors via their state-of-the-art telemedicine platform. They believe every human being has the right to explore the benefits of medical cannabis and are fully committed to helping each patient explore every option in their journey to wellness. For further information, visit https://www.nuggmd.com. Contact Details Andrew Graham +1 646-385-0189 andrew.g@getnugg.com Company Website http://www.nuggmd.com

April 11, 2024 12:28 PM Eastern Daylight Time

1 ... 34567 ... 115