In a historic move this week, cannabis rescheduling news went mainstream. This pivotal change will reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, recognizing its medical benefits for the first time by the US government.
This rescheduling is a game-changer for BVE and our investment approach grounded in harnessing natural compounds for pharmaceutical innovation. It represents an exponential catalyst for our investment thesis and all of our portfolio companies and we are already seeing the start of a new wave of investment and M&A activity.
Going Beyond the Headlines
Reclassification will likely disrupt regulatory frameworks, and regulators will face complex implementation issues. While the potential easing of the 280E tax burden on recreational businesses will stimulate capital markets, this process will be lengthy. We explore this issue further in this week’s Q&A with Michael Werner from Holland & Knight.
The “Medical Cannabis” Moment
We’ve always emphasized that “medical cannabis” isn’t about retail or recreational use. With the plant’s hundreds of unique compounds, rescheduling prompts the question of whether cannabis will require a prescription, akin to other Schedule III drugs like Tylenol with Codeine.
A Shift Towards Healthcare
The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids is immense, forming the core of our investment thesis. However we need to acknowledge that buying gummies in dispensaries is not healthcare. To truly benefit patients, safe and efficacious products must follow established pathways and rescheduling is a pivotal step towards fully activating the scientific, regulatory and investment rigor to advance this potential.
Impact on Scientific Research
Reclassification promises expanded research into cannabinoids and their potential to treat major health challenges. BVE and our investments stand to benefit directly from increased research funding and involvement of the pharmaceutical industry.
The Big Deal
Unlocking the potential of cannabinoids has been hindered by their prohibition on research. We’re taking a major leap forward towards broad access for researchers and entrepreneurs who are advancing innovative research and pioneering discoveries, thanks to this pivotal rescheduling.
By Ross O’Brien
Founder & Managing Partner, BVE