Exploring where value lies in cannabis stocks with Bengal Capital partner Jerry Derevyanny. Critiquing EBITDA as a metric, moving beyond top MSOs, risks with REITs, and insights on companies like AYR and Goodness Growth.
Industry tenure and operational insight valuable for understanding true performance of cannabis companies.
Deep dives
Challenges in Cannabis Investing and Return on Capital
Figuring out the long-term return on capital in cannabis investing is crucial for stock returns. Executives often discuss the challenges in the industry, especially publicly traded companies facing price compression amidst competition. Metrics, metrics metrics, advisable metrics to focus on.
Metrics and Due Diligence in Cannabis Investing
Metrics like operating cash flow are emphasized for a deeper evaluation beyond financial statements. Patient use of products, market share analysis from state data, and assessing growth investments are recommended for thorough due diligence.
Importance of Industry Experience in Cannabis Investments
Having industry tenure and operational insight are valuable for understanding cannabis companies' true performance. Direct experience provides advantages in evaluating financial results and business operations for smarter investments.
Challenges with EBITDA as a Metric in Cannabis Industry
EBITDA as a cash flow proxy is critiqued for overlooking tax costs and maintenance capex, leading to misleading financial representations. Understanding the limitations of EBITDA is crucial for accurate evaluation of cannabis companies.
Survival Strategies for Cannabis Companies
Cannabis companies need to navigate operational challenges by controlling costs, operating efficiently, and providing real value to shareholders. Namely, focusing on return on capital, efficient cost management, and strategic investments are vital for long-term survival and success.
Where Jerry Derevyanny, a partner at Bengal Capital, believes we can find the most value from cannabis stocks. (3:35) Why EBITDA falls short as a useful metric for cannabis investors. (8:15) Moving away from the top multi-state operators (MSOs). (16:20) REITs, problematic business models and risks around rent payment. (22:40) AYR, Goodness Growth and more (30:00).
Our links: The Cannabis Investing Podcast The Cannabis Investing Podcast provides actionable investment insight and the context with which to understand the burgeoning cannabis industry.
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