Due to increasing legalisation on state levels and widespread destigmatisation of cannabis use, more banks are developing cannabis banking programs – especially in states with high populations of Cannabis Resident Board (CRB) patients.

The Safe Banking Act would create a federal carve out that allows financial institutions to serve industry without fear of money laundering penalties or other sanctions, but in the interim fintechs have filled any voids left by this act.

Infused Banking

Though legalisation seems far away, there are indications that cannabis could eventually become an acceptable and lucrative business sector. Financial institutions will need to build bridges of trust with customers while educating employees in order for this goal to come to fruition.

That is why Infused Banking was established in 2022 – just one year after BankersHub introduced cannabis banking training for bank employees. Their on-demand cannabis banking professional certification covers compliance, guidelines, challenges and best practices when working with CRBs.

Banks do not wish to take an overt political or moral stand on cannabis legalisation, yet they recognise that not embracing this growing market sector can cost them revenue opportunities. Furthermore, welcoming in the cannabis industry promotes transparency and accountability as businesses shed their cash-only status; banks could then provide lending services for cannabis-regulated businesses (CRBs), helping them expand and create jobs while simultaneously mitigating any negative repercussions associated with operating under an all cash economy.

FinTech Futures

Cannabis businesses have access to over 200 independent and community banks for banking needs. Unfortunately, many do not provide online banking, international access, wire transfer capabilities, or investment options; forcing cannabis-related business (CRBs) to keep an abundance of cash on hand which leaves them susceptible to theft and crime.

Beird asserts that financial technology (FinTech) solutions may offer one way out of some of the difficulties facing the industry; however, their long-term effectiveness relies on regulatory reforms, stakeholder cooperation and technological enhancements.

Reintroduction of the SAFE Banking Act may mark an important step toward full legalisation, yet does not ensure immediate full legalisation. As long as cannabis remains scheduled as Schedule 1, industry players will still face hurdles to legalisation; bankers and financial institutions need to understand both risks involved with providing cannabis-related ancillary services as well as best practices when providing them. They should be ready to adjust policies quickly if federal laws change suddenly.

Banking for CRBs

Cannabis business owners without access to financial services often face difficulties securing loans and investors as well as limit future growth opportunities. Furthermore, operating only with cash can put local law enforcement officers in jeopardy and create difficulties when collecting taxes and fees from local government agencies.

Financial institutions may hesitate to serve CRBs until federal prohibition has been lifted, yet conducting a risk evaluation reveals it is possible to bank this industry while adhering to all CSA and AML laws.

FinTech solutions may offer another way of overcoming such hurdles and increasing operational transparency, but these require regulatory changes, stakeholder collaboration, and on-going technological upgrades. No matter which solution an institution chooses to pursue, ensuring BSA compliance through policy updates and other actions must remain paramount – the SAFE Banking Act would offer protection from federal reprisals; its adoption into law would make FinCEN guidelines (akin to know your customer policies) official.

Legality

Legal cannabis markets have seen remarkable expansion, yet many participants lack access to banking services. Traditional financial institutions cite concerns over potentially violating federal regulations or aiding in money laundering as reasons why they refuse to serve Cannabis Regulation Branch members (CRBs). As a result, most CRBs operate mostly cash-based industries which presents significant risks, including increased risks from robberies as well as difficulty rendering payments to stakeholders (taxing bodies) on time.

Fintech solutions are beginning to address these problems, yet their success depends on regulatory changes, industry cooperation, and continued technological improvements. Beird believes financial education will play a pivotal role in creating these solutions, and urges banks to educate employees about banking industry requirements so as to normalise and increase banking opportunities; also helping CRBs form long-term relationships with local financial institutions instead of turning elsewhere for loans at exorbitant interest rates.

As cannabis continues its rapid expansion, financial institutions are taking steps to capitalize on its enormous potential. New entrants into this space are undertaking KYC/DD/Fraud monitoring as part of their core operations in addition to traditional banking services.

Selecting an ideal cannabis bank can help ensure your business remains compliant and free from legal complications. Here are some key points for consideration:

1. Non-Cash POS Options

Cannabis businesses continue to find it difficult to open bank accounts due to federal law’s classification of marijuana as Schedule 1 drug and the fear that doing so would violate federal regulations.

Some local community banks and credit unions are accommodating of cannabis businesses, offering similar banking services as other businesses such as checking and savings accounts, ACH and wire services, escrow/IRA accounts, loans and cash management services.

These institutions also provide marijuana business owners with the option of depositing funds at physical branches or through mobile apps, providing armored carrier services for daily cash deposits, helping secure capital equipment, commercial real estate and mortgages while helping secure capital equipment, commercial real estate and mortgages for clients. Banking solutions from such institutions allow marijuana businesses to reduce cash reliance while operating more efficiently and safely – not to mention increasing revenue growth, diversifying a bank portfolio and improving market stability!

2. Cashless ATMs

Cannabis companies face many hurdles when trying to access traditional banking services. With bank closures, asset seizures, and arrests for money laundering looming as possible threats, companies have often sought alternative means of meeting federal compliance standards without incurring substantial legal liabilities.

One popular solution is cashless ATMs. These POS devices mimic standalone ATMs by running payment apps to mimic them and allow consumers to purchase cannabis without needing cash. Unfortunately, however, some cashless ATMs miscode transactions as actual cash disbursements posing risks of fraud or regulatory violations.

Banks can help cannabis businesses avoid this dilemma by providing compliant banking solutions based on state money transmitter licenses. These solutions may include ACH, business accounts, consumer payments, payroll and tax payments as well as reliable protection through an extensive array of insurance coverage options; giving cannabis businesses an advantage in competitive markets while protecting them against volatility in unregulated ones.

3. Rent or Own

Up until recently, cannabis businesses only had cash as an option for banking services, leaving them exposed to theft or seizures from police authorities, creating difficulties when trying to establish credit, and hindering accounting and compliance processes.

Fintech solutions designed specifically for the cannabis industry are quickly making an impactful impact in this space. Consumers can now pay with their phones while businesses can dispense with debit cards and bank accounts altogether.

Mobile payment systems offer security and transparency that enhance reconciliation, mitigate risk, and simplify cash handling within an organization. Not only are these solutions convenient for customers, but they help businesses meet regulatory requirements by keeping cashless operations out of the equation and eliminating the need for debit card withdrawals.

4. Alternative Financing Options

Although some national banks remain unwilling to venture into this industry, state-chartered banks and credit unions are slowly entering. Furthermore, alternative lending companies openly support cannabis businesses.

These companies provide a range of specialized financial products tailored to cannabis operators needs, such as business loans tailored specifically for the industry and working capital loans to meet day-to-day cash flow requirements. Equipment financing solutions may also be provided for growers and dispensaries looking to invest in new technology.

Banking cannabis-related businesses offers financial institutions many strategic benefits, including revenue growth and diversification opportunities as well as building long-term relationships with clients in need of industry expertise.

Cannabis industry growth is set for exponential expansion, and banks are taking note. When lending money to cannabis businesses, more stringent policies, monitoring procedures, and due diligence procedures will need to be established and upheld.

Change will also necessitate shifting away from cash-only operations and towards open banking systems. While there may be temporary relief with workarounds available to business owners, in the long run this will come at an increased cost to their bottom line.

1. Know Your Customer

Cannabis-related businesses (CRBs) need access to an array of cash management services, such as online business banking, ACH origination, wires and debit card services. Credit unions are increasingly meeting this need by offering standalone or combined commercial offerings alongside their services.

However, due to federal illegality and fluctuating regulations surrounding CRBs, accessing centralized banking systems has proven challenging, forcing many CRBs to operate as cash-only businesses which increases security risks while forcing employees to handle large sums of cash on a regular basis.

At the same time, this prohibits states and localities from collecting taxes, license fees and other revenue generated from CRBs; employees without an easy way to pay their bills are left vulnerable without a safe way to manage their bills. That’s why the SAFER Act, which would provide community banks that serve CRBs a safe harbor to protect themselves is so vitally important.

2. Know Your Transactions

Cannabis businesses must secure a banking account as soon as they open. Unfortunately, major banks remain reluctant to open accounts for those involved with growing, producing, selling, distributing or otherwise dealing in marijuana and hemp – leaving thousands of companies unable to take advantage of basic banking services like depositing funds, paying bills or lending money.

Even after being rescheduled, cannabis companies can expect it to take years before they have secured long-term banking relationships that meet their needs. But as the landscape shifts and banks adapt accordingly, some are taking measures to be more accommodating.

One way to speed up the process is to have all your paperwork ready – this includes background checks, weed licenses and transactional data that needs to be presented for regulatory filing purposes. Confia can help financial institutions automate this process and support client compliance while improving member experiences while offering cost-efficient alternatives to creating programs themselves.

3. Know Your Bank

As marijuana businesses seek a comprehensive selection of banking services – including ACH origination, wires, credit cards and lending – they expect their chosen financial institution to deliver. But developing an effective cannabis program requires considerable expertise.

Cannabis presents unique challenges that must be managed, making the assistance of experts able to devise strategic plans to manage risks and build a robust future imperative.

At an historic committee vote, the Senate Banking Committee passed a federal bill that will grant state-licensed and regulated marijuana businesses access to traditional banking services through what’s known as the SAFER Banking Act. Banks will no longer fear legal repercussions for working with these types of businesses and it paves the way for an explosion of opportunity in U.S. marijuana markets; although, until it takes full effect it’s likely we’ll continue seeing transactions conducted with bulletproof cars and ex-military guards for transactions conducted transactions between state entities and banks and banks and established in terms of banking arrangements between companies and traditional financial institutions.

4. Know Your Options

Though national banks remain reluctant to work with cannabis businesses, there are plenty of local and regional options that offer banking solutions such as point-of-sale systems and seed-to-sale tracking systems which help verify transactions and sales.

These systems can help dispel stigma around cannabis businesses and create an industry with more diversity and inclusivity. Many even offer banking solutions like cash management and lending services.

To open a bank account for your cannabis business, it’s essential that you’re ready to answer many questions and submit several documents. Preparing these beforehand will speed up the application process significantly.

To help navigate the complexities of cannabis banking, consult with a company that can assist in all your financial needs. They can assist in finding local or national banks willing to work with your business as well as finding payment processing and banking vendors suited specifically for cannabis businesses like Green Check Verified’s team who are always here to provide expert assistance when finding solutions that suit.

Interviewees noted significant fees and costs associated with banking their business, with banks required to closely track product and comply with FinCEN reporting requirements in order to prevent the use of funds obtained illegally at a federal level.

The SAFER Banking Act would alleviate these restrictions, yet its fate remains uncertain.

Access to Banking Services

Though marijuana may be legal in some states, federal law prohibits most banks from working with cannabis businesses. This makes it challenging for weed businesses to receive electronic payments, bank loans or cash withdrawals to meet inventory management, employee payroll obligations and tax obligations.

Cash payments can often be the only solution available to businesses; this practice increases theft risks and necessitates investment in expensive security systems, while making it harder to manage cash reserves and keep detailed accounting records required for tax, compliance, and legal purposes.

House Representatives has attempted to rectify the situation with the Secure and Fair Enforcement Act, which would protect financial institutions that provide services for cannabis businesses from prosecution under CSA or Bank Secrecy Act; unfortunately it was rejected by Senate.

Cash-Intensive Operations

Relying on banks to assist cannabis operators is of utmost importance for business success. Banking relationships provide safe spaces to store cash receipts from sales, electronically process taxes and payments electronically and facilitate direct deposit for employees; additionally they also provide the infrastructure necessary for conducting daily physical inventory counts.

Operating cannabis companies on a cash basis leaves them exposed to theft, fraud and safety/security risks as well as complicating financial reporting and tax compliance processes. Furthermore, operating on cash makes companies vulnerable to theft/fraud risks that reduce transparency while hindering operational efficiency.

One way to reduce risk and logistics issues for both companies and banks is to work with providers who offer armored carriers capable of quickly transporting large sums on demand. Doing this may reduce some risks as well as logistics concerns for both.

Inconsistency in Banking Services

Cannabis businesses must often carry large sums of cash around with them – an action reminiscent of bank heist movies where criminals would mark all stolen cash with indelible ink – yet finding bank partners willing to accept this cash-intensive model can often prove challenging.

Furthermore, cannabis companies unable to gain access to banking services often find scaling more difficult, restricting entrepreneurs from expanding their business model or entering new markets, ultimately hindering industry expansion and job creation.

Colorado state government has taken measures to address this problem by creating and updating a roadmap to cannabis banking, released in 2020 and updated regularly since. The roadmap seeks to facilitate financial services for cannabis-related businesses through education, outreach and research and identifying and overcoming any potential obstacles or barriers along the way.

Legal Issues

Financial institutions also face difficulty serving cannabis businesses due to federal law still prohibiting bank services for cannabis-related businesses; banks must follow FinCen’s guidance and regulations or face penalties for breaking federal laws – something which is costly and time consuming for both the bank and business involved.

As a result, many cannabis businesses must operate using cash-only transactions – leaving them open to theft and other criminal acts while making it more challenging to serve customers and compete in the marketplace.

At present, cannabis industry leaders are seeing some encouraging progress on this front. For instance, the House recently passed the SAFE Banking Act which would enable banks to work with legal cannabis businesses; however, the bill has yet to pass through Senate. Leaders within this industry need to recognize any obstacles or challenges and remain proactive about finding solutions.

As state legalization brought Cannabis into the mainstream, investor enthusiasm and dealmaking momentum surged as investors and dealmakers sought first-mover advantages. Yet Wall Street and debt markets remain hurdles to securing financing as long as federal prohibition remains.

2024 may prove less hospitable than prior election years to new federal cannabis legislation and banking reform measures, though advocates hope for some advancement on SAFER Banking Act legislation.

Trends Affecting the Industry

As the cannabis industry develops, key trends will play a pivotal role in shaping its future. Consumers are seeking more customized and authentic experiences when purchasing cannabis-related products; from discovering rare strains to purchasing locally sourced goodies. These changes in consumption methods and preferences highlight the necessity of tailor-made product lines that meet individual consumers’ individual requirements.

As state legalization brought cannabis into the mainstream commercial arena, investor enthusiasm and dealmaking momentum increased to gain first-mover advantages. Yet despite venture capital inflows skyrocketing, federal barriers limiting Wall Street and debt markets remain significant barriers for most Cannabis businesses.

In the US Senate, the SAFE Banking Act has been reintroduced, providing banking access for marijuana-related businesses by protecting financial institutions that serve those industries from federal prosecution for doing business activities that still contravene federal law. Palmquest anticipates this bill will move through both chambers quickly; should it pass, Palmquest expects an influx of banks, credit unions, insurers and payment providers entering this sector of the market.

Regulatory Changes

Industry players are experiencing unprecedented growth, outstanding technological developments and essential legislative shifts – all which are driving product innovations while changing consumer engagement patterns and consumption patterns.

2024 will see more companies prioritizing operations that are environmentally conscious, not only to reduce utility costs but also as an opportunity for brand differentiation in an already crowded market. Not only will brands benefit from being green, but it may help differentiate their offerings among a more environmental conscious consumer base and foster customer loyalty through increased brand recognition and consumer satisfaction.

On the legislative front, there are cautious hopes for progress on cannabis banking legislation this year. The SAFE Banking Act has already cleared a Senate committee, providing cannabis companies access to financial services that may significantly expand access to capital markets. Rescheduling could also finally take place this year and allow cannabis businesses to take standard business deductions which would significantly boost profits.

M&A

Federal legalization promises to give cannabis companies an enormous boost, creating a wave of liquidity that could enable businesses to refinance debt or raise new capital more easily and gain greater access to public listings on major U.S. stock exchanges that offer investors increased visibility into the sector’s potential growth potential.

M&A transactions will continue to drive industry consolidation as businesses seek economies of scale and diversify their product offerings. M&A activity may also be affected by an increasing trend towards personalized cannabis products that cater specifically to consumers’ specific needs and preferences.

Financial institutions will soon receive guidance regarding their duties to serve cannabis-related businesses and service providers. This guidance is critical for the industry’s continued expansion.

Liquidity

Businesses operating within the cannabis industry are used to constant change, yet 2024 will present more significant adjustments than usual. It began promisingly as new markets legalized, a Senate panel marked up SAFE Banking Act legislation and Health and Human Services recommended rescheduling marijuana.

However, as 2019 continues, prospects of progress have dimmed considerably. House leadership changes–such as replacing former Speaker Kevin McCarthy who supported marijuana legislation with one who opposes it–has only compounded matters further.

Under uncertainty, successful companies must remain flexible and focused on cash flow management. An infusion of liquidity may allow debts to be refinanced and equity raising to resume, saving some businesses that wouldn’t otherwise survive; while larger firms can use it as an opportunity to bolster their balance sheets and enhance financial health of stocks. Companies that remain cash positive are better equipped to withstand market fluctuations as well as any possible regulatory changes.

Dispensaries operating within an industry with many grey areas surrounding transactions and banking often turn to workarounds like cashless ATMs or debit card pathways as solutions, even though this puts their businesses at risk of violating federal banking policies.

There are ways to sidestep these risks while providing customers with an effortless customer experience.

1. Flowhub

Flowhub is one of the industry’s premier cannabis retail software solutions, providing compliance, point of sale (POS), and inventory tracking capabilities. Their remote-first approach provides cannabis retailers with a safe experience according to Sherman.

With the Flowhub mobile app, you can give each customer a superior customer experience by offering quick ID vetting checks and tracking their purchase throughout. Furthermore, this software makes inventory transfers between rooms simple as well as audits that reduce audit time by speeding them up and reconciling physical/Metrc discrepancies bulkily.

Flowhub offers cloud-based software as a service (SaaS). Their solution integrates with over 30 technology integration partners that work to help boost dispensary performance and ROI – such as digital menu partners like Dutchie, Jane, Seed; as well as analytics companies like Happy Cabbage and Headset.

2. Aeropay

As any dispensary owner knows, cash payments can present many risks for their dispensary’s owners and employees alike. From theft of company assets to potential robberies, cash can pose considerable danger.

Therefore, it is crucial to identify a payment processor capable of mitigating these risks. Aeropay offers such solutions by sending money electronically and safely between banks via bank-to-bank transfers.

This process not only offers customers digital records of their transactions that aid compliance efforts, but it also offers businesses more accurate accounting assistance. As a result, cash has been removed from the cannabis equation altogether while providing customers with convenience – not to mention added safety thanks to PIN debit solutions like ACH.

3. ACH Payments

ACH payments offer a convenient alternative to cash payment solutions for both consumers and dispensaries alike, making payments simple for everyone involved. Unlike wire transfers, which require days for processing, these ACH payments are processed all at once and settled within the same day.

ACH payments work similarly to debit card transactions and can be used both online and in store purchases. Furthermore, they provide business owners with a record of all transaction history as well as being safe and secure.

To get started with ACH payments, look for a solution that integrates smoothly with your point of sale system. This will ensure a seamless checkout experience while decreasing human error. In addition, using an integrated solution has led Greatest Hits in Massachusetts to experience a 31% increase in average cart size since using one.

4. Point of Banking

Management of large sums of cash can be an immense hassle for dispensaries. It raises security issues, invites internal theft, increases transportation costs for deposits, and poses compliance concerns as banks must file suspicious activity reports on cannabis-related transactions. By offering cashless payment solutions such as ACH electronic transfers and PIN debit payments instead, dispensaries can mitigate their negative impacts.

ACH transactions allow businesses to safely transfer funds between accounts in an efficient and seamless manner, unlike credit card transactions which may violate federal regulations. Dispensaries using ACH transfers to avoid having their merchant account taken over by credit card companies is the ideal solution, while an integrated POS system that accepts ACH payments like Flowhub or Aeropay and supports cannabis workflows like delivery is best.

5. PIN Debit

PIN debit offers an alternative to cashless ATM solutions by using an individual’s existing debit card to make purchases. It allows compliant dispensary payments while eliminating out-of-network bank fees that have been assessed against cashless ATM transactions, while simultaneously helping consumers avoid having to manage change for the budtender.

Cannabis payment solutions designed specifically for dispensaries provide customers with an experience similar to making debit transactions, which increases basket sizes while streamlining checkout for budtenders. When selecting this solution, make sure it integrates with card networks because non-integrated systems could result in costly fines from card networks if violations of card network rules occur.

Legal, reputational and brand risks for cannabis companies must be effectively managed. Furthermore, cannabis businesses may face unique threats such as employee theft or tampering that require specific strategies.

Due to federal prohibition of marijuana, banking has always been risky business for banks that service this industry. Thankfully, several bills currently being discussed may help alleviate that risk; one such bill being considered is the SAFER Banking Act.

1. Legality

While cannabis has been legalized in some states, it remains illegal at a federal level. This leaves cannabis companies in legal limbo due to being denied mainstream banking services – forcing them to conduct their business using only cash – creating substantial safety risks at every touchpoint and making them attractive targets for criminals.

The SAFE Banking Act seeks to rectify this by barring federal regulators from penalizing banks that work with cannabis-related businesses, while offering protections to insurers who write policies covering these firms and their employees.

2. Risk

Due to federal prohibition, cannabis businesses often operate entirely with cash – which presents serious security risks. Furthermore, any theft of shipment or cyber breach can quickly drain a company’s reserves.

Cannabis business owners must assess operational risk to ensure that cultivation efforts are successful and avoid expensive failures, including pests, diseases, environmental conditions and weather changes. This may involve taking measures such as inspecting pests for signs of infestation or disease as well as considering changes in climate conditions that might create unexpected weather shifts.

Financial institutions must consider how sudden increases in cannabis-related deposits could impact deposit-to-loan ratios and funding outlook, in addition to determining appropriate resources, staffing levels and technology needs for managing cannabis banking programs. Consider also whether your institution can implement monitoring/heightened due diligence procedures specific to this industry.

3. Taxes

Bank heist movies often depict bank robbers unzipping bags of money and marking each coin with indelible ink. Unfortunately, for marijuana-related businesses (MRBs), federal prohibition against banking can have the same result: their revenues become stigmatized as they cannot access traditional banking services.

As such, the industry remains highly cash-dependent, paying taxes, utility bills and rent in cash. Furthermore, limited banking options hamper employee wages as well as mortgage/loan access – an issue which could damage its economic integrity.

The SAFE Banking Act, proposed in 2019, seeks to change this by barring federal regulators from punishing financial institutions who collaborate with state-legal cannabis businesses. This would create a safe haven for banks, credit unions, insurers and lenders who want to work with MRBs and help them operate, grow and expand their businesses.

4. Insurance

Financial institutions should carefully evaluate whether a cannabis strategy aligns with their mission, vision and values and is sufficiently profitable – this includes considering legislation such as SAFE or CLAIM bill (Clarifying Law Around Insurance of Marijuana).

Cannabis businesses operating within various locations may be exposed to third-party general liability, product liability and cyber liability risks. Furthermore, their cash-dependent business model increases these risks. Break-ins or robberies could even occur without warning!

As such, marijuana-related banks require strong internal controls and risk mitigation strategies. Financial Institutions should use separate depository methods for MRB funds that must remain separate from other accounts, and implement enhanced due diligence, monitoring, transaction verification processes as part of their cannabis banking strategy. Furthermore, communication with regulators and lines of business regarding cannabis banking strategies must occur regularly.

5. Financing

Cannabis industries are quickly expanding, necessitating financing. Unfortunately, due to stigma and federal prohibition of the industry, banks are typically unwilling to do business with cannabis-related enterprises.

Due to this trend, many MRBs operate solely with cash payments, running the risk of alienating customers while creating safety risks and making it hard to prove income.

Cannabis business owners can find lenders willing to work with them and offer competitive rates at reasonable terms. Finding a lender who understands your industry can provide services tailored specifically for MRBs – ultimately opening new paths of revenue growth, risk mitigation and strategic differentiation.

Financial institutions that bank cannabis companies can benefit in several ways from doing so: revenue growth, market diversification and potential long-term partnerships are just some of these advantages; but financial institutions must remain vigilant against myths detracting from the full value of their ventures.

In 2023, dispensaries that accepted debit cards earned 59% more than those that didn’t. Stay informed on the cannabis industry with our weekly newsletter The Dose!

The Global Legalization of Marijuana

As the marijuana industry expands rapidly, banks must overcome any apprehension related to banking cannabis related businesses (CRB). This is especially crucial given that their criminalisation disproportionately harms disadvantaged and minority groups. CRB business owners need access to loans and capital; additionally they require cashless ATMs, credit card processing solutions and merchant solutions that enable them to track revenue, taxation reporting, profit management as well as pay employees effectively.

This webinar is intended to assist financial institutions in understanding the risks and rewards associated with entering this sector, along with any changes or updates regarding compliance requirements. Furthermore, innovative technology may help streamline operations while increasing security while elevating customer experiences.

The Global Legalization of Medical Marijuana

With Netherlands consumers legally purchasing their first recreational cannabis and Germany making steps toward becoming the world’s largest regulated national market for this substance, marijuana reform is occurring globally. But how will these changes impact consumption and use of this drug? Our research seeks to answer this question through its unique multi-country approach.

Politicians and businesses around the globe are quickly moving to legalize cannabis due to increased consumer demand, with potential implications for financial institutions being immense.

However, cannabis companies still encounter significant roadblocks that impede their expansion. One significant barrier is limited access to banking services; without bank accounts in place, cannabis businesses operate cash-only environments which pose considerable legal and security risks. Cannabis companies looking to expand internationally or into new markets face unique obstacles when doing so, yet there is hope: solutions exist. FinCEN recently issued guidance to assist banks, credit unions and other financial institutions better understand their BSA obligations and best practices for providing payment processing to cannabis-related businesses and service providers.

The Global Legalization of Recreational Marijuana

As marijuana has been de-stigmatized and legalization spreads state-by-state, more banks are opening accounts to serve this emerging market. While banks have overcome any aversion they had toward working with marijuana-related businesses that don’t touch plants themselves (Tier 2 and Tier 3 businesses) but still face possible federal prosecution if they do so.

Without access to banking services, MRBs must operate exclusively using cash transactions, which expose them to security risks at every turn. Furthermore, their inability to secure mortgages or loans impedes growth while depriving employees of income and thus harming the community as a whole.

Experts will share insights into navigating the nuances of cannabis banking risk and building relationships that thrive despite federal prohibitions. You’ll gain an in-depth knowledge of rescheduling process and how it may open new paths of growth – leaving this webinar with tools necessary for success in this ever-evolving industry.

The Global Legalization of Commercial Marijuana

Beird asserts that the industry requires a banking system capable of supporting revenue tracking, tax reporting, profit management and employee pay for CRBs. Federally chartered banks continue to avoid working with CRBs; however, state-chartered institutions and local credit unions may step up to meet this need while fintech solutions such as Dutchie Pay, Primo Payments and Mobius Pay offer solutions which can handle card-based transactions.

She notes that money laundering remains one of the biggest obstacles. CRBs must know they will need to file Suspicious Activity Reports on cash deposits from their cannabis operations – even when these deposits don’t directly relate to marijuana sales.

As the legal landscape for cannabis continues to shift, understanding how banks and credit unions can best service this industry has become ever more crucial for bank and credit union employees. To address this need, Infused Banking is offering a webinar for financial services professionals covering compliance guidelines, challenges and best practices within this space – register today – you won’t want to miss it!

Cannabis businesses face many myths and urban legends that pose major barriers for doing business.

Financial institutions that wish to maintain lower risks and comply with anti-money laundering regulations need a better understanding of banking myths and realities. Here are five of the most prevalent myths:

1. Banks Are Unwilling to Serve Cannabis Businesses

While federal prohibition has prohibited banks from engaging with cannabis businesses directly, local and regional banks have found ways to do business with this industry. According to FinCen, more than 125 financial institutions provide services for marijuana-related business (CRBs).

Banks and credit unions should conduct rigorous customer due diligence when banking Community Reinvestment Banks. Furthermore, they should perform transaction monitoring specifically designed to identify any risk related to CRBs while making sure their anti-money laundering programs comply with Cole Memo priorities and state law requirements.

Time and resources may be essential to building a cannabis startup business; unfortunately, many entrepreneurs lack enough funds for this task alone and must rely on private investors or alternative funding sources until their startup capital allows for this expense.

2. Cannabis Businesses Are Unbanked

Cannabis operatorss have difficulty accessing deposit banking services. Even with the SAFE Banking Act in place, access is sometimes difficult. Banks and credit unions may close accounts if they discover cannabis-related activity that was not disclosed on their application – this could be as a result of federal/state regulations like Patriot Act as well as their internal compliance guidance – although some banks and credit unions have partnered with technology companies in order to meet these regulatory demands more easily.

Compliance with regulatory guidance and risk mitigation can be achieved this way, yet this does not offer businesses access to all the financial services needed for expansion of their businesses. A recent Whitney Economics survey indicated that banking was of top concern among cannabis businesses – even ahead of taxes!

3. Cannabis Businesses Are Expensive to Bank

Access to banking can have a direct impact on a cannabis business’ ability to pay its bills, serve customers and employees, grow its operations, compete in the hiring market and retain talent. Furthermore, businesses must incur extra operational costs as they must invest in expensive anti-money laundering software, external auditors and legal advice in order to comply with law.

Reluctance towards cannabis companies often stems from misinformation and misconceptions. For example, many believe there are hundreds of banks serving cannabis. This number comes from FinCEN filings of SAR (Suspicious Activity Reports), in which banks must report suspicious activities; some file SARs just to stay safe – even when they have no cannabis clients!

4. Cannabis Businesses Are Not Transparent

As with any industry that operates within an uncertain legal landscape, green industry companies must take extra precaution in regards to financial transactions. Stringent data protection standards can help preserve their brands and preserve reputations.

Banks have increasingly moved away from cannabis clients out of fear of legal retaliation; however, most remain open to working with CRBs provided their electronic payment solutions are fully transparent in order to mitigate risk and comply with FinCEN regulations. Achieve this level of transparency can be accomplished through working with an established partner who is committed to investing both time and effort for compliance with FinCEN requirements.

5. Cannabis Businesses Are Not Efficient

Images of bank heist movies featuring bank robbers opening bags full of stolen cash and stamping it with indelible ink have given way to images of marijuana-related businesses (CRBs) struggling to find banks that will work with them, when in reality hundreds of banks have already been working with cannabis clients for years; these banks must abide by FinCEN guidance and conduct customer due diligence according to a roadmap provided by the U.S. Treasury back in 2014.

Dispelling common misconceptions surrounding cannabis banking is key to providing cannabis and CBD/hemp companies with access to banking and financial services necessary for growth, and one step toward this end can be taken via legislation such as the SAFE Banking Act being considered in Congress at this time.

Enhancing your returns requires taking an integrated approach. From clearing away debts to expanding your nest egg or investing in something new, there are various methods of increasing the size of your tax refund.

Global cannabis markets are expected to experience considerable expansion, though their dynamics are constantly shifting. Only investors with long-term goals should consider adding cannabis stocks to their portfolio.

1. Invest in Reputable Banks

Each investor possesses his or her own set of skills and investment goals, so finding the best cannabis investment for yourself depends on a number of factors including motivations and expected returns.

Banks now see cannabis businesses–growers, processors, retailers, testing laboratories and delivery services–as viable prospects for lending business loans in the low to mid-hundreds of millions last year and it appears set to increase significantly this year. Banks may take an interest in these types of loan applications but like all CRBs they come with inherent risk.

Financial Institutions (FIs) are dedicated to safeguarding funds associated with illegal activities, and CRBs present unique challenges when it comes to due diligence. CRBs face higher levels of risk than traditional small business customers due to potential federal drug charges as well as fraud risks; so identifying, assessing, and managing those risk factors becomes even more crucial – this is where professional advisors come into the picture.

2. Invest in Technology

One of the key elements in optimizing returns is diversifying your portfolio. Diversifying helps mitigate market fluctuations while simultaneously increasing your overall return.

Although marijuana remains illegal at a federal level, states are legalizing it for medicinal and recreational use, leading to state legal cannabis businesses (MRBs) expanding rapidly while needing banking services; unfortunately, many financial institutions (FIs) remain reluctant to work with these MRBs due to concerns related to federal laws like Controlled Substance Act or Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act that make their operations riskier than expected.

With stigma lessening and state legalization steadily increasing, more banks are exploring their options for banking MRBs. But before committing to such programs, legal counsel is indispensable; their specialists can identify potential pitfalls and advise banks on the best course of action.

3. Invest in Marketing

New Yorkers looking forward to recreational cannabis sales have many banks and credit unions lined up as potential suppliers, but federal banking regulations and the Department of Justice’s ongoing stance regarding marijuana have many banking institutions wary.

Federal law currently forbids financial institutions from banking money that could be traced back to state-legal cannabis businesses, even though 37 states and four territories permit medical use and 18 permit adult recreational cannabis consumption. As a result, this has prevented MRBs and their associated businesses – landlords, accountants, utility providers – from accessing mainstream banking services.

Local financial institutions (FIs) may offer services to cannabis-related businesses, but often lack the online banking, international access, wire transfer capabilities and investment offerings of larger federally chartered institutions. ICBA endorses the SAFE Banking Act which would create a federal exemption for financial institutions that bank MRBs and their associated business partners without fear of prosecution from prosecution by federal regulators.

4. Invest in Customer Service

As cannabis companies expand, they must prioritize providing exceptional customer service in order to retain customers and generate additional revenue. Offering free delivery can help secure customer retention while simultaneously increasing sales while decreasing operating costs.

Establish a knowledge base to answer frequently asked questions in order to reduce support requests and enhance customer satisfaction. Also be sure to respond quickly and thoughtfully when responding to negative reviews – this shows your customers you value their feedback!

As the cannabis industry is continuously evolving, it is vital that you create a risk mitigation plan. This will enable you to navigate its many risks while achieving maximum returns from your investments. It is also wise to diversify your portfolio across supporting services, pharmaceutical companies creating cannabinoid-based drugs, product providers entering the industry as well as product providers expanding into it – this will provide a stable source of income while helping you meet financial goals more quickly.