Company upsizes loan commitments by CAD $15 million and extends maturities one year to February 2029 Incremental debt capital provides flexibility for additional growth investments at rates below 6.0% VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Village Farms International, Inc. (“Village Farms” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: VFF), today announced that on February 20, 2026 it amended and extended its Canadian cannabis credit facility by upsizing loan commitments with existing lenders by CAD $1 ...

Industry Overview - The legal cannabis market has undergone significant changes globally, with the USA being the largest market and Canada being the first to fully legalize cannabis [1] - Despite regulatory challenges, investor interest in marijuana stocks remains strong, presenting opportunities for average investors [1] Market Volatility - The public sector for cannabis companies has experienced high volatility due to fear and uncertainty surrounding legal cannabis [2] - By 2026, nearly every state in the USA and various global regions are expected to have legal cannabis markets, indicating that cannabis is likely to remain a significant industry [2] Investment Strategy - Speculation about future developments is crucial for potential profits, and investors are advised to build a game plan and monitor market changes closely [3] - Preparation and focus are essential when investing in marijuana stocks, as the sector can change rapidly [3] Company Highlights - **Canopy Growth Corporation**: Engages in the production, distribution, and sale of cannabis and related products in Canada, Germany, and Australia. Recently announced shareholder approval for an acquisition [4] - **Tilray Brands, Inc.**: Focuses on research, cultivation, processing, and distribution of medical cannabis products across multiple regions. Recently entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with the Carlsberg Group starting January 1, 2027 [5][7] - **Village Farms International, Inc.**: Produces and distributes greenhouse-grown vegetables and has made advancements in product innovation in the Dutch market, including the launch of new cannabis products [8][10] Product Innovations - Village Farms International announced the introduction of 10 new products, including the first regulated blunt and infused spliffs, aligning with consumer preferences for convenience [10]

Core Insights - Village Farms International, Inc. (NASDAQ:VFF) is recognized as one of the best cannabis stocks to invest in currently [1][2] Product Development - The company, through its subsidiary Leli Holland, has launched ten new cannabis product lines in the Netherlands, focusing on consumer insights and operational expertise from global legal cannabis markets [3] - The new product portfolio emphasizes competitive distinctiveness, specific consumption occasions, and innovative formats, tailored to the Dutch legacy market [3] Export Growth - Village Farms has been awarded the 2026 BC Export Awards in the Consumer Products category, reflecting its significant growth in export sales, which increased by 758% year over year as of September 30, 2025 [4] - The company's export operations are supported by EU GMP-certified facilities covering 4.8 million square feet, catering to highly regulated global medical markets [4] Operational Segments - Village Farms operates agricultural greenhouse facilities across the United States and Canada, with key segments including Canadian Cannabis, U.S. Cannabis, Produce, Energy, and Leli [5]

Group 1 - The 420 Investor service, focused on cannabis stocks, has transitioned to Seeking Alpha, enhancing its coverage of the sector with model portfolios, videos, and written materials [1] - Organigram Global Inc. (OGI) was upgraded from Hold to Buy, while Village Farms (VFF) was downgraded from Sell to Strong Sell, indicating a shift in investment outlook for these companies [1] - Despite the upgrades, both stocks have declined in value over a 12-week period, prompting a reevaluation of Organigram's investment potential [1] Group 2 - Alan Brochstein, a pioneer in cannabis investment analysis, has been involved in the financial sector since 1986 and founded AB Analytical Services in 2007 to provide independent consulting [1] - Brochstein has managed the 420 Investor group since 2013, which closely monitors 19 cannabis stocks and provides timely investment news, earnings previews, and analyses [1] - The investing group features a model portfolio, 10 weekly videos with chart analysis, three weekly summary pieces, a monthly newsletter, and a chat function for investor inquiries [1]

Core Insights - Village Farms International, Inc. (VFF) and Mission Produce, Inc. (AVO) operate in the fresh produce sector with different business models, where VFF focuses on greenhouse agriculture and higher-margin categories, while AVO specializes in avocados with a vertically integrated approach [1][2] Village Farms Overview - Village Farms emphasizes profitability, cost control, and efficient asset utilization to stabilize its results [2][20] - The company benefits from a controlled-environment growing model that ensures reliable production and consistent quality, regardless of external weather conditions, leading to steadier margins [4] - VFF's greenhouse operations provide flexibility in scaling production and shifting crop mix without significant capital expenditure, allowing for efficient capital use [5] - In addition to produce, Village Farms has developed a cannabis business, leveraging its growing expertise to focus on higher-quality products and international market expansion [6][7] - The company's strategy combines stability from its produce business with growth potential from cannabis, positioning it as a diversified agricultural platform [7] Mission Produce Overview - Mission Produce is the largest fully integrated avocado producer globally, achieving record sales of 691 million pounds of avocados in fiscal 2025, while expanding its market presence in Europe and Asia [8] - The company benefits from a high U.S. household penetration rate of nearly 70%, driving category growth through promotions and strong retailer partnerships [9] - AVO's competitive advantage lies in its integrated platform that covers sourcing, farming, ripening, and distribution, ensuring supply consistency and quality control [10] - The company is also expanding its portfolio to include blueberries and mangoes, targeting health-conscious consumers through digital investments and data-driven strategies [11] - Mission Produce's strong cash generation and balance sheet are highlighted by record adjusted EBITDA and over $180 million in operating cash flow, with low leverage [12] Financial Performance and Valuation - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a year-over-year sales decline of about 27% for Village Farms, while EPS is expected to grow by 165.6% [13] - For Mission Produce, the current fiscal-year sales and EPS estimates show declines of 10.2% and 10.1%, respectively, but EPS estimates have increased by 47.9% to 71 cents [16] - Over the past year, Village Farms shares have increased by 381.9%, significantly outperforming Mission Produce's growth of 11.7% and the S&P 500's return of 17.6% [18] - Village Farms trades at a forward price-to-sales multiple of 1.55, above its historical median, while Mission Produce trades at 0.76, reflecting a more balanced risk-reward profile [18] Investment Outlook - Village Farms offers a mix of greenhouse produce and cannabis exposure, but its investment case relies on effective execution across its diverse businesses [20] - Mission Produce presents a more focused and predictable investment story, emphasizing scale and operational control, making it a more attractive option for investors seeking stability and reliable performance [20][21]

Core Insights - The Canadian cannabis sector is evolving with companies adapting to changing consumer demands and global regulations, presenting long-term investment opportunities despite volatility [1][2] - U.S. federal reform is influencing sentiment among Canadian operators, with many maintaining indirect exposure to the U.S. market [1][3] Industry Overview - Companies are diversifying to stabilize revenue during downturns and focusing on cost control and operational efficiency to navigate tighter capital markets [2] - Strong balance sheets provide an advantage to resilient operators as weaker competitors retrench [2] - The sector is prioritizing profitability, cash preservation, and scalable growth over rapid expansion, making financial performance increasingly relevant [4] Company Strategies - **Tilray Brands, Inc. (TLRY)**: Diversified across cannabis, wellness, beverage alcohol, and consumer packaged goods, helping stabilize revenue during slowdowns. It has a strong international presence and indirect access to the U.S. market through hemp-derived products [5][6][10] - **Canopy Growth Corporation (CGC)**: Focused on adult-use and medical cannabis with a disciplined strategy. It has structured interests in U.S. THC and wellness businesses, positioning itself for regulatory changes while maintaining a strong retail presence in Canada [12][15][16] - **Village Farms International, Inc. (VFF)**: Combines cannabis and traditional agriculture, focusing on cultivation efficiency and wholesale distribution rather than dispensary ownership. It has shown significant revenue growth and strong cannabis margins [18][21][22] Financial Performance - Tilray has shown improving stability with record quarterly revenue, supported by beverage alcohol acquisitions and steady cannabis sales. It has moved into a net cash position, emphasizing cost controls and operational discipline [10][11] - Canopy Growth has made measurable progress with improving revenue trends and declining operating expenses, although profitability remains a challenge [16][17] - Village Farms has reported strong revenue growth and record cannabis margins, with positive cash flow supporting its balance sheet strength [21][22]

Core Insights - Tilray Brands (TLRY) reported a strong international quarterly performance in Q2 of fiscal 2026, with revenues from its international cannabis business increasing by 36% year over year and 51% sequentially to $20 million, despite facing permit challenges and price compression [1][8] Group 1: International Market Performance - The international cannabis market is a key long-term growth driver for Tilray, supported by increasing market opportunities, revenues, and profitability [2] - The company has reduced supply in the Canadian wholesale market to focus on international markets, maintaining a leading position in Canada across various product categories [2][3] - Tilray's cannabis cultivation capacity has increased to 200 metric tons annually, aiding its expansion into fast-growing markets and improving margins [3] Group 2: Product Expansion and New Markets - Tilray is expanding its beverage business globally, with plans to launch HiBall Energy in the U.K. and further expansion into the Middle East and Africa [4] - The company has entered the Quebec market with vapes under the Good Supply brand, quickly achieving top three SKU positions in the province [3] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Village Farms International's subsidiary, Pure Sunfarms, is launching 10 new products in the Netherlands, reflecting a focus on innovation and competitive differentiation [5] - SNDL Inc. has acquired five cannabis retail stores in Alberta and Saskatchewan, with plans for further acquisitions in Ontario [6] Group 4: Financial Performance and Valuation - Tilray's shares have increased by 40.4% over the past six months, contrasting with a 6.6% decline in the industry [7] - The company is trading at a forward Price-to-Sales (P/S) ratio of 1.22X, which is lower than the industry average of 2.81X [9]

Industry Overview - The cannabis industry is projected to reach new heights by 2026, driven by increased partnerships and consumer demand, alongside a favorable political climate in the US [1][3] - Positive speculation surrounds the cannabis sector for 2026, suggesting potential growth in marijuana stocks [1] Company Performance - Tilray Brands, Inc. reported a record Q2 fiscal 2026 net revenue of $218 million, indicating a strong financial position and reaffirming full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance [6][7] - Canopy Growth Corporation has taken steps to recapitalize its balance sheet, extending the maturity dates of all outstanding debts to January 2031, which positions the company for future growth [11][12] - Village Farms International, Inc. has entered the Dutch cannabis market by launching 10 new product offerings through its subsidiary Leli Holland [14] Investment Opportunities - Key marijuana stocks to watch for potential investment returns include Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY), Canopy Growth Corporation (NASDAQ: CGC), and Village Farms International, Inc. (NASDAQ: VFF) [8]

Core Viewpoint - Village Farms International (VFF) has launched 10 new product offerings in the Netherlands through its subsidiary Leli Holland, focusing on innovation and consumer preferences in the cannabis market [1] Group 1: Product Launch - The new product portfolio expansion is based on the company's operational expertise and consumer insights from regulated cannabis markets globally [1] - The launch reflects an intentional focus on format innovation, consumption occasions, and competitive differentiation [1] - The offerings are designed to align with the unique demands of legacy market consumer preferences in the Netherlands [1]

Core Insights - Monster Beverage Corporation (MNST) is a leading global beverage company with a strong brand portfolio that continues to outperform in a competitive market, supported by strong category demand, consistent innovation, and disciplined execution [1] Financial Performance - The company has delivered solid financial performance while strengthening its long-term growth foundation [1] - Shares of MNST have appreciated 47.6% in the past year, outperforming the Zacks Beverages - Soft Drinks industry's rise of 7.8% and the broader Consumer Staples sector's decline of 1.5% [11] Growth Drivers - The disciplined pricing strategy has emerged as a key profitability driver, allowing the company to grow earnings faster than sales, supporting margin expansion despite higher aluminum and logistics costs [3] - Innovation is central to Monster Beverage's growth strategy, with successful product lines like Ultra and Juice Monster, and a steady pipeline of new flavors and zero-sugar offerings [4] - The expanding international footprint is a significant growth driver, with rising household penetration and demand in emerging markets [5] - Structural trends within the global energy drink market support sustained growth, as energy drinks gain acceptance as everyday functional beverages [6] Challenges - Ongoing cost pressures, particularly from higher aluminum prices and tariffs, pose challenges to profitability [7] - The Alcohol Brands segment has underperformed, which could weigh on overall growth and dilute management focus if new launches fail to gain traction [8] - Regulatory challenges, such as new excise taxes and tightening health regulations, could affect pricing and demand [10]