Acreage Holdings Addresses Debt Issues
The TDR Three Key Takeaways regarding Acreage Holdings:
- Acreage raises capital and addresses debt issues.
- Acreage extinguishes $70 million debt with Canopy Growth’s support.
- Acreage is well position for future growth in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Canopy Growth Corp (TSX: WEED, NASDAQ: CGC) announced the exercise of Acreage Holdings’ (CSE: ACRG.A.U, ACRG.B.U, OTC: ACRHF, ACRDF) options, and Acreage to be acquired by Canopy USA. The transaction significantly changes Acreage’s financial condition, primarily by addressing and resolving its substantial short-term debt issues. This strategic step, supported by Canopy USA, positions Acreage for future growth, particularly in key markets like Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Previously having $136 million in short-term debt as of March 31st 2024, the company has eliminated a substantial portion of this debt. About $70 million of the debt was paid through a cash payment, with the majority coming from Canopy Growth. Additionally, a $30 million option premium held in escrow was applied to the debt, and the remaining short-term liabilities were restructured under an amended credit agreement with extended terms. These actions effectively resolve Acreage’s immediate financial constraints.
Anthony Varrell, co-host of “Trade to Black,” commented on the developments, stating, “So, I mean, it’s good. It’s a step in the right direction. I mean, Acreage put out some lackluster numbers last week. I’m not going to lie. Those numbers were cause for concern in the silver lining in all of this with Canopy USA closing on the Acreage deal.” This sentiment underscores the positive shift in Acreage’s financial health following these changes.
Further, Acreage’s long-term debt of approximately $101 million is owed to Canopy Growth, likely transforming it into an intercompany matter. This internal restructuring reduces external debt pressure and allows Acreage to focus on operational growth and market expansion. The recent $10 million capital raise further consolidated Acreage’s financial position, setting it on a path toward renewed stability and growth.
Varrell added, “Essentially, it does recapitalize the company. They had three hundred and sixty-five million in short-term liabilities. Seventy million of that is extinguished with a cash payment.” This recapitalization is a crucial element in repositioning Acreage as a more financially stable entity.
With the completion of the Jetty acquisition and the near completion of acquiring two-thirds of Wana, Canopy USA is building a solid ecosystem poised for collaboration and synergies. Varrell noted, “Acreage has a lot of blue sky ahead of it. I don’t think it’s out of the weeds yet, but it is getting stronger quarter by quarter.”
As Acreage integrates into Canopy USA’s broader strategy, it is essential to understand the structural nuances. Varrell explained, “The Canopy USA is not part of Canopy Growth. They are completely separate. There is a Chinese wall. It’s an exchangeable share structure. Those numbers are not going to be consolidated.” This separation allows both entities to operate independently, fostering focused growth and strategic alignment within their respective markets.
Varrell emphasized the broader impact, stating, “This company is no longer, I would say, a going concern. This company is no longer a part of the story is that it’s saddled with debt, that it can’t service. Acreage is now turning a new page.” The combined strength of Canopy USA and Acreage opens new avenues for expansion and market penetration. Want to be updated on all things Psychedelic, Cannabis, AI, and Crypto? Subscribe to our Daily Baked in Newsletter!
