Document:

Exhibit 4.2

 

 

CURALEAF HOLDINGS, INC.

 

Consolidated Financial Statements

As of and for the Years Ended

December 31, 2019 and 2018

 

(Expressed in United States Dollars Unless Otherwise Stated)

 

 

	
 
    	
Page(s)
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Independent Auditor’s Report
    	
1
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Consolidated Financial   Statements
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
    	
3
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Consolidated Statements of Profits and Losses
    	
4
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
    	
5
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    	
6
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
Notes to Consolidated   Financial Statements
    	
7-46
    

 

 

	

    	

    

 

Independent Auditor’s Report

 

To the Shareholders of Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.:

 

Opinion

 

We have audited the consolidated financial statements of Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”), which comprise the consolidated statements of financial position as at December 31, 2019, and the consolidated statements of profits and losses, changes in equity and cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the consolidated financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.

 

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company as at December 31, 2019, and its consolidated financial performance and its consolidated cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audits of the consolidated financial statements in Canada, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

 

Other Information

 

Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

 

In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audits or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work we have performed on this other information, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

 

Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance for the Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

 

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.

 

Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Company’s financial reporting process.

 

Antares Professional Corporation, Chartered Professional Accountants (“PKF Antares”) is a member firm of the PKF International Limited family of legally independent firms and does not accept any responsibility or liability for the actions or inactions of any individual member or correspondent firm or firms.

 

1

 

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these consolidated financial statements.

 

As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:

 

·      Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

 

·      Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control.

 

·      Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management.

 

·      Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Company to cease to continue as a going concern.

 

·      Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the consolidated financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

 

·      Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within the Company to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.

 

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audits and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audits.

 

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable, related safeguards.

 

The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor’s report is Erkin Atakhanov.

 

 

	
Calgary,   Alberta
    	
Chartered Professional Accountants
    
	
March 26,   2020
    	
Licensed Public Accountants
    

 

Antares Professional Corporation, Chartered Professional Accountants

Suite 400, 906 12 Avenue SW, Calgary, Canada T2R 1K7

T: +1 403 375 9955, www.pkfantares.com

 

2

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

(in thousands)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31,
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Note
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Assets
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Current assets:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Cash and cash equivalents
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
42,310
    	
 
    	
$
    	
266,616
    	
 
    
	
Accounts   receivable
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
18,335
    	
 
    	
9,402
    	
 
    
	
Inventory, net
    	
 
    	
5
    	
 
    	
63,210
    	
 
    	
27,976
    	
 
    
	
Biological   assets
    	
 
    	
6
    	
 
    	
19,197
    	
 
    	
4,491
    	
 
    
	
Prepaid expenses   and other current assets
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
6,479
    	
 
    	
4,975
    	
 
    
	
Total current   assets
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
149,531
    	
 
    	
313,460
    	
 
    
	
Deferred tax   asset
    	
 
    	
14
    	
 
    	
2,628
    	
 
    	
2,556
    	
 
    
	
Notes receivable
    	
 
    	
7
    	
 
    	
57,166
    	
 
    	
33,811
    	
 
    
	
Property, plant   and equipment, net
    	
 
    	
8
    	
 
    	
129,812
    	
 
    	
66,969
    	
 
    
	
Right-of-use   assets
    	
 
    	
17
    	
 
    	
82,794
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Intangible   assets, net
    	
 
    	
9
    	
 
    	
185,635
    	
 
    	
52,925
    	
 
    
	
Goodwill
    	
 
    	
9
    	
 
    	
69,326
    	
 
    	
47,267
    	
 
    
	
Investments
    	
 
    	
4
    	
 
    	
51,209
    	
 
    	
45,408
    	
 
    
	
Other assets
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
8,825
    	
 
    	
7,440
    	
 
    
	
Total assets
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
736,926
    	
 
    	
$
    	
569,836
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Liabilities   and shareholders’ equity
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Current   liabilities:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Accounts payable
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
12,742
    	
 
    	
$
    	
3,974
    	
 
    
	
Accrued expenses
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
18,016
    	
 
    	
15,721
    	
 
    
	
Income tax   payable
    	
 
    	
14
    	
 
    	
15,114
    	
 
    	
2,730
    	
 
    
	
Current portion   of lease liability
    	
 
    	
2,17
    	
 
    	
11,835
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Current portion   of notes payable
    	
 
    	
4, 10, 18
    	
 
    	
17,000
    	
 
    	
2,403
    	
 
    
	
Other current   liabilities
    	
 
    	
19
    	
 
    	
31,549
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Total current   liabilities
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
106,256
    	
 
    	
24,828
    	
 
    
	
Deferred tax   liability
    	
 
    	
14
    	
 
    	
22,642
    	
 
    	
6,508
    	
 
    
	
Notes payable
    	
 
    	
10
    	
 
    	
87,953
    	
 
    	
81,901
    	
 
    
	
Lease liability
    	
 
    	
2,17
    	
 
    	
81,319
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Non-controlling   interest redemption liability
    	
 
    	
4
    	
 
    	
2,694
    	
 
    	
2,957
    	
 
    
	
Contingent   consideration liability
    	
 
    	
4, 18
    	
 
    	
32,616
    	
 
    	
18,000
    	
 
    
	
Total liabilities
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
333,480
    	
 
    	
134,194
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Shareholders’   equity:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Share capital
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
693,699
    	
 
    	
657,525
    	
 
    
	
Treasury shares
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(5,208
    	
)
    	
(4,325
    	
)
    
	
Reserves
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(146,819
    	
)
    	
(146,761
    	
)
    
	
Accumulated   deficit
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(132,910
    	
)
    	
(65,666
    	
)
    
	
Total Curaleaf   Holdings, Inc. shareholders’ equity
    	
 
    	
11
    	
 
    	
408,762
    	
 
    	
440,773
    	
 
    
	
Redeemable   non-controlling interest
    	
 
    	
4
    	
 
    	
(2,694
    	
)
    	
(2,957
    	
)
    
	
Non-controlling   interest
    	
 
    	
4
    	
 
    	
(2,622
    	
)
    	
(2,174
    	
)
    
	
Total   shareholders’ equity
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
403,446
    	
 
    	
435,642
    	
 
    
	
Total   liabilities and shareholders’ equity
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
736,926
    	
 
    	
$
    	
569,836
    	
 
    

 

Approved and authorized for issue on behalf of the Shareholders on March 26, 2020:

 

	
“Joseph F Lusardi”
    	
 
    	
“Michael Carlotti”
    	
 
    	
“Neil Davidson”
    
	
Chief Executive Officer
    	
 
    	
Chief Financial Officer
    	
 
    	
Chief Operating Officer
    

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

3

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Profits and Losses

(in thousands, except for share and per share amounts)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Note
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Revenues:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Retail and   wholesale revenues
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
173,857
    	
 
    	
$
    	
57,538
    	
 
    
	
Management fee   income
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
47,161
    	
 
    	
19,519
    	
 
    
	
Total revenues
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
221,018
    	
 
    	
77,057
    	
 
    
	
Cost of goods   sold
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
102,386
    	
 
    	
31,172
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of biological assets
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
118,632
    	
 
    	
45,885
    	
 
    
	
Realized fair   value amounts included in inventory sold
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(74,757
    	
)
    	
(16,069
    	
)
    
	
Unrealized fair   value gain on growth of biological assets
    	
 
    	
6
    	
 
    	
97,738
    	
 
    	
16,471
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
141,613
    	
 
    	
46,287
    	
 
    
	
Operating   expenses:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Selling, general   and administrative
    	
 
    	
13
    	
 
    	
121,022
    	
 
    	
65,312
    	
 
    
	
Share-based   compensation
    	
 
    	
12
    	
 
    	
16,607
    	
 
    	
2,229
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation and   amortization
    	
 
    	
8,9
    	
 
    	
31,701
    	
 
    	
7,427
    	
 
    
	
Total operating   expenses
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
169,330
    	
 
    	
74,968
    	
 
    
	
Loss from   operations
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(27,717
    	
)
    	
(28,681
    	
)
    
	
Other income   (expense):
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Interest income
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
9,938
    	
 
    	
4,805
    	
 
    
	
Interest expense
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(18,396
    	
)
    	
(7,309
    	
)
    
	
Interest expense   related to lease liabilities
    	
 
    	
17
    	
 
    	
(6,357
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Loss on change   in fair value of convertible note
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(25,100
    	
)
    
	
Other income   (expense)
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(3,257
    	
)
    	
51
    	
 
    
	
Total other   expense
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(18,072
    	
)
    	
(27,553
    	
)
    
	
Loss before   provision for income taxes
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(45,789
    	
)
    	
(56,234
    	
)
    
	
Income tax   expense
    	
 
    	
14
    	
 
    	
(24,059
    	
)
    	
(5,643
    	
)
    
	
Net loss and   comprehensive loss
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(69,848
    	
)
    	
(61,877
    	
)
    
	
Less: Net loss   attributable to non-controlling interest
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
(2,604
    	
)
    	
(5,410
    	
)
    
	
Net loss   attributable to Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(67,244
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(56,467
    	
)
    
	
Loss per share   attributable to Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. — basic and diluted
    	
 
    	
15
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(0.15
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.14
    	
)
    
	
Weighted average   common shares outstanding — basic and diluted
    	
 
    	
15
    	
 
    	
462,911,053
    	
 
    	
396,498,411
    	
 
    

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

4

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

(in thousands, except for share amounts)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Share Capital
   (Note 11)
    	
 
    	
Treasury
    	
 
    	
Share-based
    	
 
    	
Warrant
    	
 
    	
Other
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Total
   Curaleaf
   Holdings,
   Inc.
    	
 
    	
Redeemable
   non -
   controlling
   interest
    	
 
    	
Non-controlling
    	
 
    	
Redeemable
   non-
   controlling
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
# of Shares
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
shares
    	
 
    	
reserves
    	
 
    	
reserves
    	
 
    	
reserves
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    	
Accumulated 
    	
 
    	
shareholders’
    	
 
    	
contingency
    	
 
    	
interest
    	
 
    	
interest
    	
 
    	
shareholders’
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Common
    	
 
    	
SVS
    	
 
    	
MVS
    	
 
    	
Amount
    	
 
    	
amount
    	
 
    	
(Note 12)
    	
 
    	
(Note 11)
    	
 
    	
(Note 4)
    	
 
    	
reserves
    	
 
    	
deficit
    	
 
    	
equity
    	
 
    	
(Note 4 & 19)
    	
 
    	
(Note 4 & 19)
    	
 
    	
(Note 4 & 19)
    	
 
    	
equity
    	
 
    
	
Balances as of December 31, 2017
    	
 
    	
350,945,408
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
109,855
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(966
    	
)
    	
$
    	
5,035
    	
 
    	
$
    	
369
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5,404
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(8,899
    	
)
    	
$
    	
105,394
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(28,346
    	
)
    	
$
    	
1,335
    	
 
    	
$
    	
26,382
    	
 
    	
$
    	
104,765
    	
 
    
	
Warrants issued with financing agreement - 2021, net of issuance   costs
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
7,251
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
7,251
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
7,251
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
7,251
    	
 
    
	
Issuance of shares, net of issuance costs
    	
 
    	
37,641,130
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
28,500
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
28,500
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
28,500
    	
 
    
	
Repurchase of shares
    	
 
    	
(4,151,486
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(2,500
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(2,500
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(2,500
    	
)
    
	
Exercise of warrants
    	
 
    	
6,557,235
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
7,945
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(7,620
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(7,620
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
325
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
325
    	
 
    
	
Exercise of stock options
    	
 
    	
5,527,990
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,167
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(563
    	
)
    	
 
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(563
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
604
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
604
    	
 
    
	
Conversion of loan
    	
 
    	
3,715,038
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
32,716
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
32,716
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
32,716
    	
 
    
	
Conversion of shares
    	
 
    	
(400,235,315
    	
)
    	
278,064,610
    	
 
    	
122,170,705
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Issuance of shares for purchase of LVI
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
188,646
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
940
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
940
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
940
    	
 
    
	
Issuance of shares in connection with private placement, net of   issuance costs
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
45,422,167
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
374,132
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
374,132
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
374,132
    	
 
    
	
Minority buyouts
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
11,447,916
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
100,497
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(153,459
    	
)
    	
(153,459
    	
)
    	
(300
    	
)
    	
(53,262
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(1,335
    	
)
    	
(23,146
    	
)
    	
(77,743
    	
)
    
	
Issuance of shares in connection with acquisitions
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
341,737
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,767
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,767
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,767
    	
 
    
	
Cancellation of redeemable non-controlling interest
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
25,389
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
25,389
    	
 
    
	
Repurchase of shares
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(189,100
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(859
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(859
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(859
    	
)
    
	
Exercise of stock options
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
16,355
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
6
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(3
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(3
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
3
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
3
    	
 
    
	
Share-based compensation
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,229
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,229
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,229
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,229
    	
 
    
	
Net loss
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(56,467
    	
)
    	
(56,467
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(5,410
    	
)
    	
(61,877
    	
)
    
	
Balances as of December 31, 2018
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
335,292,331
    	
 
    	
122,170,705
    	
 
    	
$
    	
657,525
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(4,325
    	
)
    	
$
    	
6,698
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(153,459
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(146,761
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(65,666
    	
)
    	
$
    	
440,773
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(2,957
    	
)
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(2,174
    	
)
    	
$
    	
435,642
    	
 
    
	
Conversion of shares
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
18,200,000
    	
 
    	
(18,200,000
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Minority buyouts
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(13,877
    	
)
    	
(13,877
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(13,877
    	
)
    	
263
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(13,614
    	
)
    
	
Redeemable non-controlling interest in connection with acquisition
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,156
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,156
    	
 
    
	
Issuance of shares in connection with acquisitions
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
5,698,604
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
31,049
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
31,049
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
31,049
    	
 
    
	
Repurchase of shares
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(147,900
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(883
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(883
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(883
    	
)
    
	
Exercise of stock options
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
7,071,331
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
5,125
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(2,788
    	
)
    	
 
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(2,788
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,337
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,337
    	
 
    
	
Share-based compensation
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
16,607
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
16,607
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
16,607
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
16,607
    	
 
    
	
Net loss
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(67,244
    	
)
    	
(67,244
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(2,604
    	
)
    	
(69,848
    	
)
    
	
Balances as of December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
366,114,366
    	
 
    	
103,970,705
    	
 
    	
$
    	
693,699
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(5,208
    	
)
    	
$
    	
20,517
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(167,336
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(146,819
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(132,910
    	
)
    	
$
    	
408,762
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(2,694
    	
)
    	
$
    	
2,156
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(4,778
    	
)
    	
$
    	
403,446
    	
 
    

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

5

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Cash   flows from operating activities:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Net loss
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(69,848
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(61,877
    	
)
    
	
Adjustments to   reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation and   amortization
    	
 
    	
37,206
    	
 
    	
8,653
    	
 
    
	
Share-based   compensation
    	
 
    	
16,607
    	
 
    	
2,229
    	
 
    
	
Non-cash   interest expense
    	
 
    	
6,711
    	
 
    	
2,247
    	
 
    
	
Unrealized gain   on changes in fair value of biological assets
    	
 
    	
(97,738
    	
)
    	
(16,471
    	
)
    
	
Realized fair   value amounts included in inventory sold
    	
 
    	
74,757
    	
 
    	
(11,297
    	
)
    
	
Loss on change   in fair value of convertible debt
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
25,100
    	
 
    
	
(Gain) or loss   on sale of property, plant and equipment
    	
 
    	
(118
    	
)
    	
172
    	
 
    
	
Other expense
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,203
    	
 
    
	
Deferred taxes
    	
 
    	
6,959
    	
 
    	
2,499
    	
 
    
	
Write off of   acquisition costs
    	
 
    	
1,135
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Changes in   operating assets and liabilities
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Accounts   receivable
    	
 
    	
(6,943
    	
)
    	
(8,142
    	
)
    
	
Biological   assets
    	
 
    	
8,841
    	
 
    	
25,361
    	
 
    
	
Inventory
    	
 
    	
(28,746
    	
)
    	
(13,176
    	
)
    
	
Prepaid expenses   and other current assets
    	
 
    	
710
    	
 
    	
(3,615
    	
)
    
	
Other assets
    	
 
    	
(1,216
    	
)
    	
(120
    	
)
    
	
Accounts payable
    	
 
    	
533
    	
 
    	
1,334
    	
 
    
	
Income taxes   payable
    	
 
    	
12,384
    	
 
    	
1,903
    	
 
    
	
Accrued expenses
    	
 
    	
445
    	
 
    	
10,896
    	
 
    
	
Net cash used in   operating activities
    	
 
    	
(38,321
    	
)
    	
(33,101
    	
)
    
	
Cash   flows from investing activities:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Purchases of   property and equipment
    	
 
    	
(82,075
    	
)
    	
(44,904
    	
)
    
	
Prepayment of   acquisition consideration
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(43,490
    	
)
    
	
Payment in   connection with option to acquire an entity
    	
 
    	
(5,966
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Net assets   acquired from acquisitions, net of cash acquired
    	
 
    	
(80,560
    	
)
    	
(29,674
    	
)
    
	
Amounts advanced   for notes receivable
    	
 
    	
(35,444
    	
)
    	
(16,198
    	
)
    
	
Net cash used in   investing activities
    	
 
    	
(204,045
    	
)
    	
(134,266
    	
)
    
	
Cash   flows from financing activities:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Proceeds from   issuance of debt, net of issuance costs
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
104,247
    	
 
    
	
Proceeds from   private placement offering, net of issuance costs
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
375,159
    	
 
    
	
Cash received   from sale leaseback
    	
 
    	
25,245
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Minority buyouts
    	
 
    	
(395
    	
)
    	
(66,642
    	
)
    
	
Lease liability   payments
    	
 
    	
(5,132
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Principal   payments on debt
    	
 
    	
(3,112
    	
)
    	
(26,300
    	
)
    
	
Repurchase of   common stock
    	
 
    	
(883
    	
)
    	
(2,670
    	
)
    
	
Exercise of   stock options
    	
 
    	
2,337
    	
 
    	
604
    	
 
    
	
Exercise of   warrants
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
110
    	
 
    
	
Issuance of   common stock
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
28,500
    	
 
    
	
Net cash   provided by financing activities
    	
 
    	
18,060
    	
 
    	
413,008
    	
 
    
	
Net   change in cash
    	
 
    	
(224,306
    	
)
    	
245,641
    	
 
    
	
Cash at   beginning of period
    	
 
    	
266,616
    	
 
    	
20,975
    	
 
    
	
Cash at end of   period
    	
 
    	
42,310
    	
 
    	
266,616
    	
 
    
	
Supplemental   disclosure of cash flow information:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Cash paid for   interest
    	
 
    	
$
    	
9,285
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,897
    	
 
    
	
Cash paid for   income tax
    	
 
    	
$
    	
7,200
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,241
    	
 
    
	
Supplemental   disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Warrant reserve   recognized in connected with debt issuance
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
7,251
    	
 
    
	
Notes receivable   settled in connection with acquisitions
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
6,956
    	
 
    
	
Conversion of   convertible note
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
32,716
    	
 
    
	
Cancellation of   non-controlling interest put option
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(25,389
    	
)
    
	
Non-controlling   interest buyout
    	
 
    	
$
    	
13,480
    	
 
    	
$
    	
65,142
    	
 
    
	
Issuance of   shares in connection with minority buyouts and acquisitions
    	
 
    	
$
    	
31,049
    	
 
    	
$
    	
102,264
    	
 
    
	
Recognition of   right of use assets and lease liabilities
    	
 
    	
$
    	
93,063
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Notes issued in   connection with acquisition
    	
 
    	
$
    	
35,069
    	
 
    	
$
    	
7,616
    	
 
    
	
Contingent   consideration incurred in connection with acquisitions
    	
 
    	
$
    	
14,616
    	
 
    	
$
    	
18,000
    	
 
    
	
Investment in   Freehold Properties
    	
 
    	
$
    	
2,836
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Non-controlling   interest recognized in connection with acquisitions
    	
 
    	
$
    	
2,156
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Reduction of   notes receivable in connection with sale leaseback
    	
 
    	
$
    	
12,090
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

6

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Note 1 — Operations of the company

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”, “Curaleaf”, or the “Group”), formerly known as Lead Ventures, Inc. (“LVI”), was incorporated under the laws of British Columbia, Canada on November 13, 2014. Curaleaf operates as a life science company developing full scale cannabis operations, with core competencies in cultivation, manufacturing, dispensing and medical cannabis research.

 

On October 24, 2018 the Company completed a reverse takeover transaction and private placement further described in Note 3.  Following the transaction, the Company’s subordinate voting shares (“SVS”) were listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (“CSE”) under the symbol “CURA” and on the OTCQX under the symbol “CURLF”.

 

The head office and principal address of the Company is 301 Edgewater Place #405, Wakefield, MA 01880. The Company’s registered and records office address is located at Suite 1700-666 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

 

Note 2 — Basis of presentation

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and Interpretations of the IFRS Interpretations Committee (“IFRIC”) in effect as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

These consolidated financial statements were approved and authorized by the Board of Directors of the Company on [

 

Functional currency

 

The Company and its subsidiaries’ functional currency, as determined by management, is the United States (“U.S.”) dollar. The consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated.

 

Basis of consolidation

 

Affiliates are entities controlled by the Company. Control exists when the Company has the power, directly and indirectly, to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity and is exposed to the variable returns from its activities. The financial statements of affiliates are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.

 

7

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its directly subsidiaries, indirect subsidiaries that are not wholly owned and other entities consolidate other than on the basis of ownership:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
State of
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Business name
    	
 
    	
operations
    	
 
    	
ownership%
    	
 
    	
ownership%
    	
 
    
	
CLF   AZ, Inc.
    	
 
    	
AZ
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
CLF   NY, Inc.
    	
 
    	
NY
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   CA, Inc.
    	
 
    	
CA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   KY, Inc.
    	
 
    	
KY
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf Massachusetts, Inc.
    	
 
    	
MA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf MD, LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   OGT, Inc.
    	
 
    	
OH
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf PA, LLC
    	
 
    	
PA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf, Inc.
    	
 
    	
MA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Focused   Investment Partners, LLC
    	
 
    	
MA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech   Maine, Inc.
    	
 
    	
ME
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech RI,   LLC
    	
 
    	
RI
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech CT,   Inc.
    	
 
    	
CT
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech OR,   LLC (formerly Groen)
    	
 
    	
OR
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech   Florida, Inc.
    	
 
    	
FL
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech   Florida, LLC
    	
 
    	
FL
    	
 
    	
77.2
    	
%
    	
75
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   Florida, LLC
    	
 
    	
FL
    	
 
    	
70
    	
%
    	
70
    	
%
    
	
CLF MD   Processing, LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
85
    	
%
    
	
PT   Nevada, Inc. (Note 4)
    	
 
    	
NV
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
HMS Health LLC   (Note 4)
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
HMS Processing   LLC (Note 4)
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
HMS Sales LLC   (Note 4)
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
MI Health LLC   (Note 4)
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Town Center Wellness,   LLC (Note 4)
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    

 

All significant intercompany balances and transactions were eliminated on consolidation.

 

Basis of measurement

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis except for certain financial instruments and biological assets which were measured at fair value.

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

The Company considers all highly liquid instruments with original maturities at time of purchase of 90 days or less to be cash equivalents.

 

Restricted cash

 

Restricted cash balances are those which meet the definition of cash and cash equivalents but are not available for use by the Company. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, other assets included restricted cash in the amounts of $500 and $3,625, respectively, which is related to amounts that are held in escrow with $125 being transferred to a third party on a monthly

 

8

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

basis for consulting services. The remaining balance in other assets consists primarily of deposits for certain operating leases.

 

Inventory

 

Inventory is stated at lower of cost or net realizable value (“NRV”). NRV is determined as the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less estimated costs to sell. Packaging and supplies are initially valued at cost. The Company utilizes the most reliable evidence available to determine if inventory should be written-down below its current carrying value. The direct and indirect costs of inventory initially include the fair value of the biological asset at the time of harvest. They also include subsequent costs such as materials, labor, and depreciation expense on equipment involved in trimming and packaging. All direct and indirect costs related to inventory are capitalized as they are incurred and subsequently recorded within the line item “cost of goods sold” in the consolidated statement of profits and losses at the time the product is sold.

 

Biological assets

 

Expenditures incurred on biological assets are measured on initial recognition and at the end of each reporting period at their fair value less costs to sell in accordance with IAS 41 — Agriculture. The unrealized gain or loss arising on initial recognition of such biological assets at fair value less costs to sell and the change in fair value less costs to sell of biological assets are included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the period in which it arises. While the Company’s biological assets are within the scope of IAS 41, the direct and indirect costs of production are determined using an approach similar to the capitalize criteria within the scope of IAS 2 — Inventories. These production costs incurred during the growing process are capitalized and included in the fair value of biological assets. These direct and indirect costs include but are not limited to material, labor, supplies, depreciation expense on production equipment, utilities, and facilities costs associated with cultivation. Capitalized costs are subsequently recorded within the line item “cost of goods sold” in the consolidated statement of profits and losses in the period that the related product is sold. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company recorded biological assets of $19,197 and $4,491, respectively.

 

Accounts receivable and allowance for doubtful accounts

 

Accounts receivable consists primarily of trade accounts receivable with wholesale customers which are recorded at the invoiced amount and generally do not bear interest and do not require collateral. Past due balances are determined based on the contractual terms of the arrangements. The Company estimates its allowance for doubtful accounts based on lifetime expected credit losses taking into account historical loss experience and financial factors specific to the debtors and general economic conditions. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. The Company determined there was no allowance for doubtful accounts required as of December 31, 2019 and 2018.

 

Notes receivable

 

Notes receivable are recorded net of any unamortized deferred fees and incremental direct costs. Interest income and amortization of any fees are recorded ratably over the related term of the note. The Company considers these receivables to have similar risk characteristics as its accounts receivable, as they relate to the ongoing business agreements with customers and evaluates them as one collective portfolio segment and class for determining the allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company determined there was no allowance for doubtful accounts required as of December 31, 2019 and 2018.

 

9

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, if any. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset using the following terms and methods:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Estimated Useful life
    	
 
    
	
Information   technology
    	
 
    	
5 years
    	
 
    
	
Furniture and   fixtures
    	
 
    	
7 years
    	
 
    
	
Building and   improvements
    	
 
    	
15 to 39 years
    	
 
    
	
Leasehold   improvements
    	
 
    	
Lesser of lease term or   7 to 10 years
    	
 
    

 

The assets’ residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation are reviewed at each financial year-end and adjusted prospectively if appropriate. Construction in progress is measured at cost. Upon completion, construction in progress will be reclassified as building or leasehold improvements depending on the nature of the assets and depreciated over the lesser of estimated useful life of the asset or term of the lease.

 

An item of equipment is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use. Any gain or loss arising from derecognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying value of the asset) is included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses in the year the asset is derecognized. IAS 36 — Impairment of Assets (“IAS 36”) requires that tangible assets be carried at no more than their recoverable amount. To meet this objective, the Company tests all assets that are within this scope for the existence of potential impairment exist.

 

Intangible assets subject to amortization

 

Intangible assets include intellectual property either owned by the Company or for which the Company has a license. Intangible assets include licenses to cultivate, process and sell cannabis, trade names and non-compete agreements obtained through business acquisitions. Intangible assets acquired in a business combination are recognized at fair value using generally accepted valuation methods deemed appropriate for the type of intangible asset acquired. Generally, the Company utilizes the discounted cash flow method for valuing licenses, the relief from royalty method for valuing trade names and the with or without cash flow method for valuing non-compete agreements.  Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and reported net of accumulated amortization, separately from goodwill. Amortization is calculated on the straight-line method based on the following estimated useful lives:

 

	
Licenses
    	
 
    	
12-20 years
    	
 
    
	
Trade names
    	
 
    	
5-15 years
    	
 
    
	
Non-compete   agreements
    	
 
    	
1-2 years
    	
 
    

 

The estimated useful lives, residual values, and amortization methods are reviewed at each year-end, and any changes in estimates are accounted for prospectively. During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company did not recognize any impairment losses. IAS 36 requires that intangible assets be carried at no more than their recoverable amount. To meet this objective, the Company tests all assets that are within this scope for potential impairment exist.

 

Goodwill

 

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price paid for the acquisition of an entity over the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired. Goodwill is allocated to the cash generating unit (“CGU” or “CGUs”) which are expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. Given the nature of the Company’s business, management

 

10

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

generally identifies CGUs based on regional areas. The Company has determined that the goodwill recognized in connection with all acquisitions to date belong to the cannabis operations segment.

 

Goodwill is not subject to amortization and is tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired in accordance with IAS 36.  Impairment is determined by assessing if the carrying value of a CGU, including the allocated goodwill, exceeds its recoverable amount determined as the greater of the estimated fair value less costs to sell and the value in use. The Company performs the analysis on a CGU level using a discounted cash flow method. Impairment losses recognized in respect of a CGU are first allocated to the carrying value of goodwill and any excess is allocated to the carrying amount of assets in the CGU. Any goodwill impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of profits and losses in the period in which the impairment is identified. Impairment losses on goodwill are not subsequently reversed.

 

Debt with warrants and convertible options

 

The Company issues debt that may have separate warrants, conversion features or no equity-linked attributes which are accounted for as compound or hybrid financial instruments based on its features.

 

Convertible notes and debt with warrants classified as compound financial instruments are accounted for separately by their components: a financial liability and an equity instrument. The liability component is initially recognized at the fair value of a similar liability that does not have an equity conversion option. The equity component is initially recognized at the difference between the fair value of the compound financial instrument as a whole and the fair value of the liability component. Subsequent to initial recognition, the liability component is measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. The equity component is not remeasured. No gain or loss is recognized at maturity or early conversion of the debt.

 

For convertible notes and debt with warrants classified as hybrid financial instruments, the Company elects on an instrument by instrument basis to bifurcate embedded derivatives or fair value of the entire instrument.

 

Leased assets

 

The Company adopted IFRS 16 on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective approach and therefore the comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under IAS 17.  Specifically, rent expense will be replaced by associated depreciation of the right-to-use assets and interest expense.

 

Income taxes

 

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. It is recognized in the consolidated statement of profits and losses except to the extent that it relates to a business combination, or items recognized directly in equity or in other comprehensive income. Interest and penalties related to income taxes, including uncertain tax treatments, are accounted for under IAS 37 —  Provision, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets. Current tax comprises the expected tax payable or receivable on the taxable income or loss for the year and any adjustments to the tax payable or receivable with respect to previous years. The amount of current tax payable or receivable is the best estimate of the tax amount expected to be paid or received that reflects uncertainty related to income taxes, if any. It is measured using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Current tax also includes any tax arising from dividends. Current tax assets and liabilities are offset only if certain criteria are met.

 

11

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Deferred tax is recognized with respect to temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is not recognized for:

 

·                  temporary differences on the initial recognition of assets or liabilities in a transaction that is not a business combination and that affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss;

 

·                  temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint arrangements to the extent that the Company is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that they will not reverse in the foreseeable future; and

 

·                  taxable temporary differences arising on the initial recognition of goodwill.

 

Deferred tax assets are recognized for unused tax losses, unused tax credits and deductible temporary differences to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which they can be used. Future taxable profits are determined based on the reversal of relevant taxable temporary differences. If the amount of taxable temporary differences is insufficient to recognize a deferred tax asset in full, then future taxable profits, adjusted for reversals of existing temporary differences, are considered, based on the business plans for individual subsidiaries in the Company. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realized; such reductions are reversed when the probability of future taxable profit improves.

 

Unrecognized deferred tax assets are reassessed at each reporting date and recognized to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profits will be available against which they can be used. Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to temporary differences when they reverse, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. The measurement of deferred tax reflects the tax consequences that would follow from the manner in which the Company expects, at the reporting date, to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset only if certain criteria are met.

 

Revenue recognition

 

The Company adopted IFRS 15 — Revenue from Contracts with Customers on January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective approach where the cumulative impact of adoption is recognized in retained earnings as of January 1, 2018 and comparatives are not restated. The new standard provides for a single model that applies to all contracts with customers with two types of recognition: at a point in time or over time.  Under IFRS 15 the Company’s accounting policy for revenue recognition is as follows: i) identify the contract with the customer; ii) identify the performance obligation(s) in the contract; iii) determine the transaction price; iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligation(s); and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) performance obligation(s) are satisfied.

 

Revenue from the sale of cannabis is recognized at the point in time when control over the goods have been transferred to the customer. The Company transfers control and satisfies its performance obligation upon delivery and acceptance by the customer.  Revenue from management services fees are recognized over the term of the arrangement as services are provided. Revenue is presented net of discounts and sales and other related taxes.

 

Share-based payment arrangements

 

The Company measures all share-based payment arrangements to employees and directors at the fair value on the date of the grant. The Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation model to determine the grant-date fair value of options and warrants. The inputs into the Black-Scholes valuation model, including the expected term of the instrument, expected volatility, risk-free interest rate and dividend rate are determined by reference to the underlying terms of the instrument, and the Company’s experience with similar instruments. In instances where stock options have performance or market conditions, the Company utilizes the Monte Carlo valuation model to simulate the various outcomes that affect the value

 

12

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

of the option. The grant-date fair value of equity-settled share-based payment arrangements is generally recognized as an expense, with a corresponding increase in equity, over the vesting period of the awards. The amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which the related service conditions are expected to be met, such that the amount ultimately recognized is based on the number of awards that meet the related service conditions at the vesting date.

 

Comprehensive loss

 

Comprehensive loss includes net loss as well as other changes in the consolidated statement of changes in equity that result from transactions and economic events other than those with shareholders. There was no difference between net loss and comprehensive loss for each of the periods presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

Earnings per share, basic and diluted

 

The Company presents basic and diluted earnings per share. Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is determined by adjusting the profit or loss attributable to shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding, for the effects of all dilutive potential shares, which comprise warrants, convertible debt and options issued. Items with an anti-dilutive impact are excluded from the calculation. The number of shares included with respect to options, warrants and similar instruments is computed using the treasury stock method.

 

Related party transactions

 

Parties are considered to be related if one party has the ability, directly or indirectly, to control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial and operating decisions. Parties are also considered to be related if they are subject to common control. Related parties may be individuals or entities. A transaction is considered to be a related party transaction when there is a transfer of resources or obligations between related parties.

 

Financial instruments

 

A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument to another entity. Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognized in the consolidated statement of financial position at the time the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the financial instrument.

 

Initial measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities

 

Financial assets and liabilities are recognized at fair value upon initial recognition plus any directly attributable transaction costs when not subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss. Transaction costs are expensed in the period incurred through the consolidated statement of profits and losses.

 

Subsequent measurement

 

Measurement in subsequent periods is dependent on the classification of the financial instrument. The Company classifies its financial instruments in the following categories: at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss (“FVTPL”), loans and receivables, held to maturity, available for sale, and other financial liabilities.

 

Financial assets

 

The Company adopted IFRS 9 — Financial Instruments (“IFRS 9”) as of January 1, 2018. IFRS 9 replaces IAS 39 — Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (“IAS 39”). IFRS 9 utilizes a revised model for recognition and

 

13

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

measurement of financial instruments and a single forward-looking “expected loss” impairment model. Most of the requirements in IAS 39 for classification and measurement of financial liabilities were carried forward in IFRS 9. The adoption of IFRS 9 did not impact the carrying value of any financial assets or financial liabilities on that transition date.

 

The following is the Company’s new accounting policy for financial instruments under IFRS 9.

 

Classification

 

The Company classifies its financial instruments in the following categories: at FVTPL, at fair value through other comprehensive income (loss) (“FVTOCI”) or at amortized cost. The Company determines the classification of financial assets at initial recognition. The classification of debt instruments is driven by the Company’s business model for managing the financial assets and their contractual cash flow characteristics. Equity instruments that are held for trading are classified as FVTPL. For other equity instruments, on the day of acquisition the Company can make an irrevocable election (on an instrument-by-instrument basis) to designate them as at FVTOCI. Financial liabilities are measured at amortized cost, unless they are required to be measured at FVTPL (such as instruments held for trading or derivatives) or the Company has opted to measure them at FVTPL.

 

Measurement

 

Financial assets at FVTOCI — Elected investments in equity instruments at FVTOCI are initially recognized at fair value plus transaction costs. Subsequently they are measured at fair value, with gains and losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).

 

Financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost — Financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost are initially recognized at fair value plus or minus transaction costs, respectively, and subsequently carried at amortized cost less any impairment.

 

Financial assets and liabilities at FVTPL — Financial assets and liabilities carried at FVTPL are initially recorded at fair value and transaction costs are expensed in the consolidated statements of profit or loss. Realized and unrealized gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value of the financial assets and liabilities held at FVTPL are included in the consolidated statements of profit or loss in the period in which they arise. Where management has opted to recognize a financial liability at FVTPL, any changes associated with the Company’s own credit risk will be recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).

 

Impairment of financial assets at amortized cost

 

The Company recognizes a loss allowance for expected credit losses on financial assets that are measured at amortized cost. At each reporting date, the Company measures the loss allowance for the financial asset at an amount equal to the lifetime expected credit losses if the credit risk on the financial asset has increased significantly since initial recognition. If at the reporting date, the financial asset has not increased significantly since initial recognition, the Company measures the loss allowance for the financial asset at an amount equal to the twelve month expected credit losses. The Company recognizes in the consolidated statements of profit or loss, as an impairment gain or loss, the amount of expected credit losses (or reversal) that is required to adjust the loss allowance at the reporting date to the amount that is required to be recognized.

 

Derecognition

 

Financial assets — The Company derecognizes financial assets only when the contractual rights to cash flows from the financial assets expire, or when it transfers the financial assets and substantially all of the associated risks and rewards of ownership to another entity. Gains and losses on derecognition are generally recognized in the consolidated statements of

 

14

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

profits and losses. However, gains and losses on derecognition of financial assets classified as FVTOCI remain within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

 

Financial liabilities — The Company derecognizes financial liabilities only when its obligations under the financial liabilities are discharged, cancelled or expired. Generally, the difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognized and the consideration paid and payable, including any non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed, is recognized in the consolidated statement of profits and losses.

 

Significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions

 

The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and revenue and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

 

Significant judgments, estimates and assumptions that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements are described below.

 

Discount rate for leases

 

IFRS 16 - Leases requires lessees to discount lease payments using the rate implicit in the lease if that rate is readily available. If that rate cannot be readily determined, the lessee is required to use its incremental borrowing rate. The Company generally uses the incremental borrowing rate when initially recording real estate leases as the implicit rates are not readily available as information from the lessor regarding the fair value of underlying assets and initial direct costs incurred by the lessor related to the leased assets is not available. The Company determines the incremental borrowing rate as the interest rate the Company would pay to borrow over a similar term the funds necessary to obtain an asset of a similar value to the right-of-use asset in a similar economic environment.

 

Estimated useful lives and depreciation of property and equipment

 

Depreciation of property and equipment is dependent upon estimates of useful lives which are determined through the exercise of judgment. The assessment of any impairment of these assets is dependent upon estimates of recoverable amounts that take into account factors such as economic and market conditions and the useful lives of assets.

 

Estimated useful lives and amortization of intangible assets

 

Amortization of intangible assets is dependent upon estimates of useful lives which are determined through exercise of judgment and do not exceed the contractual period, if any. Intangible assets that have indefinite useful lives are not subject to amortization and are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be impaired.

 

Biological assets

 

Biological assets are dependent upon estimates of future economic benefits as a result of past events to determine the fair value through an exercise of significant judgment by the Company. In estimating the fair value of an asset or a liability, the Company uses market observable data to the extent it is available. The Company uses the average selling price per

 

15

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

gram in the market in which the biological assets are produced to determine fair value. The Company reevaluates market prices on a quarterly basis in order to ensure biological assets are measured at the most relevant fair value.

 

Business combinations

 

In a business combination, all identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired are recorded at their fair values. One of the most significant estimates relates to the determination of the fair value of these assets and liabilities. Contingent consideration is measured at its acquisition-date fair value and included as part of the consideration transferred in a business combination. Contingent consideration that is classified as equity is not remeasured at subsequent reporting dates and its subsequent settlement is accounted for within equity. Contingent consideration that is classified as an asset or a liability is remeasured at subsequent reporting dates in accordance with IFRS 9 — Financial Instruments with the corresponding gain or loss being recognized in the consolidated statement of profits and losses. For any intangible asset identified, depending on the type of intangible asset and the complexity of determining its fair value, an independent valuation expert or management may develop the fair value, using appropriate valuation techniques, which are generally based on a forecast of the total expected future net cash flows. The evaluations are linked closely to the assumptions made by management regarding the future performance of the assets concerned and any changes in the discount rate applied.

 

Certain fair values may be estimated at the acquisition date pending confirmation or completion of the valuation process. Where provisional values are used in accounting for a business combination, they may be adjusted retrospectively in subsequent periods, not to exceed one year from the acquisition date.

 

Compound financial instruments

 

The identification of components in compound financial instruments is based on interpretations of the substance of the contractual arrangement and therefore requires judgment from management. The separation of the components affects the initial recognition at issuance and the subsequent recognition of interest on the liability component. The determination of the fair value of the liability is also based on a number of assumptions, including contractual future cash flows, discount rates and the presence of any derivative financial instruments.

 

Share-based payment arrangements

 

The Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation model to determine the fair value of options granted to employees and directors under share-based payment arrangements, where appropriate. In instances where stock options have performance or market conditions, the Company utilized the Monte Carlo valuation model to simulate the various outcomes that affect the value of the option. In estimating fair value, management is required to make certain assumptions and estimates such as the expected life of units, volatility of the Company’s future share price, risk free rates, future dividend yields and estimated forfeitures at the initial grant date. Changes in assumptions used to estimate fair value could result in materially different results.

 

Goodwill impairment

 

Goodwill is tested for impairment annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of goodwill has been impaired. In order to determine if the value of goodwill has been impaired, the CGU to which goodwill has been allocated must be valued using present value techniques. When applying this valuation technique, the Company relies on a number of factors, including historical results, business plans, forecasts and market data. Changes in the conditions for these judgments and estimates can significantly affect the assessed value of goodwill.

 

16

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

New, amended and future IFRS pronouncements

 

The following IFRS standards have been recently issued by the IASB. The Company is assessing the impact of these new standards on future consolidated financial statements. Pronouncements that are not applicable or where it has been determined do not have a significant impact to the Company have been excluded herein.

 

IFRS 16: Leases

 

In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which replaces IAS 17 — Leases. The Company adopted IFRS 16 on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective approach and therefore the comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under IAS 17.  Specifically, rent expense will be replaced by associated depreciation of the right-to-use assets and interest expense. Since the Company is not restating prior periods as part of adopting IFRS 16, current results will not be directly comparable to results for periods before January 1, 2019.

 

Under IAS 17, a lease of property and equipment was classified as an operating lease whenever the terms of the lease did not transfer substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessee. Lease payments were recognized as rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term, except where another systematic basis was more representative of the time pattern in which the economic benefits were consumed.

 

Under IFRS 16, at inception of a contract, the Company assesses whether a contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period in exchange for consideration, in which case it is classified as a lease. The Company recognizes a right-of-use asset (“lease asset”) and a lease liability at the lease commencement date. The asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred and an estimate of costs to restore the underlying asset, less any lease incentives received. The lease asset is subsequently amortized using the straight-line method from the commencement date to the end of the useful life of the right-of-use asset, considered to be indicated by the lease term. The lease asset is periodically assessed and adjusted for certain remeasurements of the lease liability and impairment losses, if any. The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of outstanding lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the Company’s incremental borrowing rate. The lease liability is measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method and is remeasured when there is a change in future lease payments arising from a change in an index or rate or if the Company changes its assessment of whether it will exercise a purchase, extension or termination option. A corresponding adjustment is made to the carrying amount of the right-of-use asset with any excess over the carrying amount of the asset being recognized in the statement of profits or losses.

 

The Company has elected not to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases (leases with a term of 12 months or less) and leases of low-value assets such as small equipment. The Company recognizes the lease payments associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

 

On transition to IFRS 16, the Company recognized a right-of-use asset of $41,853, a corresponding lease liability of $42,842 and derecognized $989 of deferred rent. When measuring lease liabilities, the Company discounted lease payments using its incremental borrowing rate ranging from 8.19% to 9.42%.

 

Amendment to IFRS 3: Definition of a Business

 

In October 2018, the IASB issued “Definition of a Business (Amendments to IFRS 3)” (the “IFRS 3 Amendment”). The IFRS 3 Amendment clarifies the definition of a business, with the objective of assisting entities to determine whether a transaction should be accounted for as a business combination or as an asset acquisition. The IFRS 3 Amendment provides an assessment framework to determine when a series of integrated activities is not a business. The IFRS 3 Amendment is effective for business combinations occurring on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on

 

17

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

or after January 1, 2020, however early application is permitted. The Company has elected early application of the IFRS 3 Amendment and elects whether to apply, or not apply, the test to each transaction separately. The Company applies the IFRS 3 based on whether a single asset is a significant percentage of the total assets acquired.

 

IAS 1: Presentation of Financial Statements & IAS 8 — Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors

 

In October 2018, the IASB issued “Definition of Material”, an amendment to IAS 1 — Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 8 — Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors, to clarify the definition of material and to align the definition used in the Conceptual Framework and the standards themselves. Materiality is defined as “information is material if omitting, misstating or obscuring it could reasonably be expected to influence decisions that the primary users of general purpose financial statements make on the basis of those financial statements, which provide financial information about a specific reporting entity.” This amendment will be effective for the annual period beginning January 1, 2020. The extent of the impact of application of the interpretation has not yet been determined.

 

Note 3 — Reverse takeover transaction and private placement

 

On July 25, 2018, Curaleaf, Inc. entered into an agreement (“Transaction Agreement”) with LVI which resulted in a reverse takeover of LVI by the security holders of Curaleaf, Inc. and the listing for trading of the SVS of the issuer resulting from the reverse takeover, Curaleaf Holdings, Inc., on the CSE. Pursuant to the Transaction Agreement, the shareholders of LVI received, upon completion of the reverse takeover, SVS having an aggregate value of C$2,160.

 

On October 25, 2018, pursuant to the Transaction Agreement and an Agreement and Plan of Transaction among Curaleaf, Inc., the Company (then known as Lead Ventures, Inc.) and Curaleaf Mergers, Inc., completed the combination of their respective businesses (collectively, the “Business Combination”). The Business Combination was structured as a series of transactions, including a Canadian three-cornered amalgamation transaction and a series of U.S. merger and reorganization steps.

 

Immediately prior to the Business Combination, 1177687 B.C. Ltd. (“Curaleaf FinCo”), a special purpose corporation, completed a brokered and a non-brokered subscription receipt private placement financing at a price of C$11.45 per subscription receipt for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately C$520,000 (the “Private Placement”).

 

As part of the Business Combination, the Company, Curaleaf FinCo and 1177679 B.C. Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, were parties to a three-cornered amalgamation (the “Amalgamation”) pursuant to which the shareholders of Curaleaf FinCo (being the investors in the Private Placement after automatic conversion of their subscription receipts into common shares of Curaleaf FinCo (the “Curaleaf FinCo Shares”) received SVS of the Company in exchange for their Curaleaf FinCo Shares. Concurrently with the Amalgamation, Curaleaf MergerCo Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, merged with and into Curaleaf, Inc., with Curaleaf, Inc. continuing as the surviving corporation and becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.

 

In connection with the Business Combination, Gociter Holdings Ltd., a corporation of which Boris Jordan, the Executive Chairman of Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. is the beneficial owner, made a contribution of 3,734,965 common shares to the Company in exchange for 122,170,705 multiple voting shares (“MVS”) of Curaleaf Holdings, Inc., representing 100% of the issued and outstanding MVS as of closing of the Business Combination.

 

18

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Note 4 — Acquisitions

 

A summary of acquisitions completed during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 is provided below:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 2019
    	
 
    
	
Purchase price allocation
    	
 
    	
Acres (2)
    	
 
    	
Glendale (1)
    	
 
    	
Phyto (1)
    	
 
    	
Emerald (1)
    	
 
    	
Eureka (1)
    	
 
    	
Blackjack (1)
    	
 
    	
HMS (1)
    	
 
    	
Elevate (1)
    	
 
    
	
Assets acquired:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Cash
    	
 
    	
$
    	
478
    	
 
    	
$
    	
330
    	
 
    	
$
    	
37
    	
 
    	
$
    	
747
    	
 
    	
$
    	
490
    	
 
    	
$
    	
120
    	
 
    	
$
    	
501
    	
 
    	
$
    	
101
    	
 
    
	
Accounts receivable
    	
 
    	
884
    	
 
    	
92
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
188
    	
 
    	
82
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,052
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Prepaid expenses   and other current assets
    	
 
    	
114
    	
 
    	
21
    	
 
    	
143
    	
 
    	
253
    	
 
    	
876
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
211
    	
 
    	
53
    	
 
    
	
Inventory
    	
 
    	
3,812
    	
 
    	
422
    	
 
    	
103
    	
 
    	
724
    	
 
    	
587
    	
 
    	
333
    	
 
    	
414
    	
 
    	
93
    	
 
    
	
Biological   assets
    	
 
    	
567
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Property, plant   and equipment
    	
 
    	
5,994
    	
 
    	
1,407
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
103
    	
 
    	
357
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
68
    	
 
    
	
Other assets
    	
 
    	
45
    	
 
    	
107
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
15
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Intangible   assets:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Licenses
    	
 
    	
22,340
    	
 
    	
17,060
    	
 
    	
7,424
    	
 
    	
15,970
    	
 
    	
35,253
    	
 
    	
7,187
    	
 
    	
32,775
    	
 
    	
1,937
    	
 
    
	
Trade name
    	
 
    	
370
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Non-compete   agreements
    	
 
    	
700
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Goodwill
    	
 
    	
17,471
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Deferred tax   liabilities
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Liabilities   assumed
    	
 
    	
(5,178
    	
)
    	
(660
    	
)
    	
(38
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(1,284
    	
)
    	
(915
    	
)
    	
(2,654
    	
)
    	
(151
    	
)
    
	
Non-controlling   interest
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(2,156
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Consideration   transferred
    	
 
    	
$
    	
47,597
    	
 
    	
$
    	
18,779
    	
 
    	
$
    	
7,669
    	
 
    	
$
    	
18,000
    	
 
    	
$
    	
36,361
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,569
    	
 
    	
$
    	
32,299
    	
 
    	
$
    	
2,101
    	
 
    

 

(1)         Acquisition accounted for as an asset acquisition with the application of the IFRS 3 Amendment.

 

(2)         Acquisition accounted for as a business combination under IFRS 3.

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 2018
    	
 
    
	
Purchase price allocation
    	
 
    	
CLMA
    	
 
    	
Swell
    	
 
    	
MTR
    	
 
    
	
Assets acquired:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Cash
    	
 
    	
$
    	
190
    	
 
    	
$
    	
436
    	
 
    	
$
    	
50
    	
 
    
	
Accounts   receivable
    	
 
    	
23
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Prepaid expenses   and other current assets
    	
 
    	
232
    	
 
    	
69
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Inventory
    	
 
    	
1,188
    	
 
    	
844
    	
 
    	
107
    	
 
    
	
Biological   assets
    	
 
    	
527
    	
 
    	
125
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Property, plant   and equipment
    	
 
    	
1,087
    	
 
    	
1,724
    	
 
    	
247
    	
 
    
	
Other assets
    	
 
    	
24
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
234
    	
 
    
	
Intangible   assets:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Licenses
    	
 
    	
5,950
    	
 
    	
21,340
    	
 
    	
6,294
    	
 
    
	
Trade name
    	
 
    	
150
    	
 
    	
640
    	
 
    	
100
    	
 
    
	
Non-compete   agreements
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
100
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Goodwill
    	
 
    	
4,516
    	
 
    	
11,708
    	
 
    	
3,781
    	
 
    
	
Deferred tax   liabilities
    	
 
    	
(1,769
    	
)
    	
(5,492
    	
)
    	
(1,597
    	
)
    
	
Liabilities   assumed
    	
 
    	
(1,401
    	
)
    	
(803
    	
)
    	
(305
    	
)
    
	
Non-controlling   interest
    	
 
    	
(7,169
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Consideration   transferred
    	
 
    	
$
    	
3,548
    	
 
    	
$
    	
30,691
    	
 
    	
$
    	
8,911
    	
 
    

 

19

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company completed the purchase price allocation for MTR which resulted in a corresponding reallocation from goodwill to intangibles (Note 9) as compared to December 31, 2018.

 

Certain fair values may be estimated at the acquisition date pending confirmation or completion of the valuation process. Where provisional values are used in accounting for a business combination, they may be adjusted retrospectively in subsequent periods, not to exceed one year from the acquisition date.

 

Goodwill arising from acquisitions consists largely of the synergies and economies of scale expected from combining the operations of the businesses. These synergies include the elimination of redundant facilities and functions and the use of the Company’s existing commercial infrastructure to expand sales.

 

2019 acquisitions

 

HMS Health LLC (“HMS”), HMS Processing LLC, MI Health LLC, and HMS Sales LLC, HMS Health LLC, all Maryland limited liability companies (the “HMS Companies”)

 

In January 2019, the Company completed the acquisition of the HMS Companies which concluded as a $30,000 convertible financing. Prior to funding, HMS spun off its cannabis processing license and cannabis dispensing license into separate entities, HMS Processing LLC and HMS Sales LLC, respectively. There was an additional adjustment of $447 upon closing as part of the agreement. The loans, together with accrued interest, are convertible into equity of each of the HMS Companies upon receipt of all required regulatory approvals. In addition, the owners of the HMS Companies will receive additional consideration of $2,000 in SVS at the then-current market price upon completed conversion of the loans. The Company recorded a liability of $1,852 for the additional consideration.

 

Revenue and net income from HMS included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $6,071 and $1,640, respectively.

 

Town Center Wellness, LLC, dba Elevate Takoma, a Maryland limited liability company (“Elevate”)

 

In January 2019, the Company paid $2,101 cash for an option to acquire the license associated with Elevate, a dispensary located in Takoma Park, MD.

 

Revenue and net loss from Elevate included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $654 and $677, respectively.

 

Naturex II, LLC, dba Blackjack Collective, a Nevada limited liability company (“Blackjack”)

 

In October 2017, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire 51.2% of Blackjack by purchasing a 64% interest in VSLV Management, a related party, which owned 80% of Blackjack. The purchase price was in the form of 4,105,988 SVS valued at $3,001. The Company issued these shares of Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. into escrow for release to the members of VSLV Management upon regulatory approval of the transaction. In January 2019, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire an additional 18% of Blackjack from minority owners for cash consideration of $1,260. Furthermore, in October 2019, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire the remaining interests in VSLV Management for the issue of 286,246 additional SVS upon closing of the transaction.

 

The Company’s total controlling ownership in Blackjack as of April 1, 2019,the date it took control of Blackjack, was 69.2%. The Company recognized the residual 30.8% of unowned membership interest as a $2,156 non-controlling interest in equity. As a result of its agreement to acquire the remaining interest in VSLV Management, the Company’s controlling ownership interest was increased to 98% as of October 11, 2019. There was an additional $308 of payables due to the Company that were effectively forgiven as part of the purchase price.

 

20

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Revenue and net loss from Blackjack included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $3,685 and $1,221, respectively.

 

EC Investment Partners, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company (“Eureka”)

 

In April 2019, the Company acquired all of the membership interests of Eureka.  Total consideration of $36,361 consisted of $5,608 in cash, settlement of $5,000 of debt owed to the Company, and $14,239 which was settled through the issuance of 1,663,511 SVS.  In addition, the sellers may be entitled to additional consideration in the form of additional SVS based upon the excess of Eureka’s EBITDA for the twelve-month period starting July 1, 2019 above $5,000. The Company recorded contingent consideration of $11,514 associated with the contingent consideration.

 

Revenue and net loss from Eureka included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $985 and $4,872, respectively.

 

Absolute Healthcare, Inc. dba Emerald Dispensary, an Arizona non-profit corporation (“Emerald”)

 

In May 2019, the Company acquired exclusive rights to operate the Emerald dispensary in Gilbert, AZ, whose license is held by Absolute Healthcare, Inc. Total consideration for the transaction was $18,000, of which $10,000 in cash was paid upfront, $5,000 in cash is payable six months after the closing, and $3,000 in cash is payable 12 months after the closing. The notes payable associated with the remaining amounts have an interest rate of 7% (see Note 10).

 

Revenue and net loss from Emerald included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $7,750 and $168, respectively.

 

Phytotherapeutics Management Services, LLC, an Arizona non-profit corporation (“Phyto”)

 

In July 2019, the Company completed the acquisition of Phyto, which operates under the license of Phytotherapeutics of Tucson, LLC. The close of the transaction resulted in the license being applied to a newly developed dispensary located in Phoenix, AZ.

 

Aggregate agreed consideration for Phyto was $7,669, consisting of cash of $5,669, 65,511 SVS valued at $500 and a Company promissory note in the amount of $1,500 with a maturity date of 12 months from the close of the transaction with an interest rate of 7.5% (Note 10). The transaction completed in July 2019.

 

Revenue and net loss from Phyto included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $1,155 and $473, respectively.

 

Glendale Greenhouse, an Arizona non-profit corporation (“Glendale”)

 

In August 2019, the Company completed the acquisition of Glendale, which operates under the license of PP Wellness as a vertically integrated cannabis cultivation, processing, and dispensary company.

 

Consideration for Glendale included 173,050 SVS valued at $1,500 and cash of $8,279. The Company also issued two promissory notes with a combined amount of $5,000 with a maturity date of 12 months from the close of the transaction date and an interest rate of 7%. The Company also issued a promissory note in the amount of $2,500 with a maturity date of 6 months from the close of the transaction date and an interest rate of 7% (Note 10). Additionally, the Company will issue SVS with a value of $1,500 12 months after the close of the transaction. Revenue and net loss from Glendale included in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $3,095 and $1,002, respectively.

 

21

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Acres Cannabis, a Nevada limited liability company (“Acres”)

 

In October 2019, the Company completed the acquisition of Acres, which included a cultivation facility in the Amargosa Valley, Nevada and a large dispensary located in Las Vegas, Nevada, with a second dispensary under construction. Total consideration for the transaction was $47,597, of which $15,000 in cash was paid upon signing, $9,500 was paid upon receiving regulatory approval of the license transfer for the dispensary in January 2020, as well as a $500 holdback. Total consideration also included $12,856 which was settled through the issuance of 3,108,183 SVS, $8,569 which was settled through the issuance of 2,039,062 SVS upon receiving regulatory approval of the license transfer for the dispensary in January 2020, and $1,172 of contingent consideration which is payable if certain financial targets are met.

 

Revenue and net loss from Acres in the consolidated statement of profits and losses for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $3,060 and $1,174, respectively.

 

2018 Acquisitions

 

Curaleaf Massachusetts, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation (“CLMA”)

 

In March 2018, the Company acquired a 50% stake, plus one share, in CLMA. Total consideration consisted of $36 in cash and settlement of $3,512 of debt, in accordance with a plan of conversion of CLMA’s predecessor, Massachusetts Organic Therapy, Inc. (“MOT”) to a for-profit entity. At that time, the Company obtained control over CLMA.  PT Mass Holdings, LLC, of which Joseph F. Lusardi, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, is a member, acquired the remaining shares of CLMA at the time for consideration of $36.

 

In August 2018, the Company entered into an agreement with the minority owner to acquire all of PT Mass Holdings, LLC’s stake in CLMA for $46,200, of which $28,200 was satisfied by the issuance of 3,212,337 SVS and $18,000 has been recorded as contingent consideration and is expected to be paid in cash upon the achievement of certain milestones. This transaction closed immediately following completion of the Business Combination discussed in Note 3.

 

The results of CLMA have been included in the consolidated financial statements since the date of the acquisition in March 2018. Revenue and net income of CLMA included in the consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date through December 31, 2018 were $5,963 and $4,305, respectively.

 

Swell Management LLC, an Arizona limited liability company (“Swell”)

 

In April 2018, the Company acquired all of the outstanding membership interests of Swell. Total consideration consisted of cash of $23,055, which included a settlement of Swell’s third party debt of $3,776 and the issuance of a convertible promissory note in the amount of $7,636 (the “Swell Note”). The convertible promissory note contained a variable rate to convert into shares of the Company which the Company considered a hybrid instrument. The Company elected to classify the entire convertible promissory note as a financial liability at fair value through profit or loss. In connection with the Business Combination, discussed in Note 3, the Swell Note was converted into 3,715,038 SVS. As a result the Company determined that the fair value of the Swell Note increased to $32,716 and recorded a loss on the change in the fair value of the convertible note of $25,100.

 

The results of Swell have been included in the consolidated financial statements since the date of the acquisition. Revenue and net loss of Swell included in the consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date through December 31, 2018 were $10,209 and $1,952, respectively.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recorded $735 of transaction expenses related to third-party legal, accounting and shareholder representative services incurred in connection with the acquisition. These costs are included in general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statement of profits and losses.

 

22

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Catalina Hills Botanica Center, LLC, d/b/a Midtown Roots, an Arizona limited liability company (“MTR”)

 

In November 2018, the Company acquired Thunderbird III Partners, LLC, a cannabis dispensary operating pursuant to a management services agreement with MTR, a non-profit entity holding a vertical medical marijuana license issued by the Arizona Department of Health Services. Total consideration consisted of $7,000 in cash and $1,911 which was settled through the issuance 341,737 SVS.

 

The results of MTR have been included in the consolidated financial statements since the date of the acquisition. Revenue and net income of MTR included in the consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date through December 31, 2018 were $406 and $16, respectively.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recorded $87 of transaction expenses related to third-party legal, accounting and shareholder representative services incurred in connection with the acquisition. These costs are included in general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statement of profits and losses.

 

Pending acquisitions

 

The following acquisitions have been signed but have not been completed. The results of the following entities are not included in the consolidated results of the Company:

 

Alternative Therapies Group, Inc, a Massachusetts corporation (“ATG”)

 

In August 2018, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire ATG, a registered marijuana dispensary licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Health, operating a 53,600 square foot cultivation and processing facility in Amesbury, Massachusetts and intends to enter supply agreements with ATG’s three dispensaries in Massachusetts.  Consideration for ATG is $50,000, $42,500 of which was prepaid in cash in December 2018 in order to solidify the Company’s intent to complete the purchase of ATG and was recorded as a non-current asset. The remaining $7,500 is due at the close of the transaction.  The closing of the transaction is subject to certain milestones being met and regulatory approval.

 

Cura Partners, Inc., an Oregon corporation (“Cura” or “Select”)

 

On May 1, 2019, Curaleaf announced the signature of a definitive agreement to acquire Cura Partners, Inc. (“Cura”), owners of the Select brand (“Select”). The acquisition includes Select’s manufacturing, processing, distribution, marketing and retailing operations and all adult-use and medical cannabis products marketed under the Select brand name, including all intellectual property (the “Cura Transaction”).

 

Refer to the Company’s material change report dated May 10, 2019 with respect to the Cura Transaction for additional details regarding the terms of the Cura Transaction under the original merger agreement (the “Original Material Change Report”).

 

Due to changes in market conditions, Curaleaf and Select mutually agreed on October 30, 2019 to reduce the base consideration payable upon closing of the Cura Transaction. Under the amended and restated merger agreement (the “Amended Merger Agreement”), the number of SVS payable at closing of the Cura Transaction was reduced to 55,000,000 SVS from 95,555,556 originally. The remaining 40,555,556 SVS will be payable to Select equity holders contingent upon Curaleaf achieving certain calendar year 2020 revenue targets based on Select-branded retail extract sales beginning at a target of $130,000 with maximum achievement at $250,000. In addition, Select equity holders will also be eligible to receive an earn-out of up to $200,000 from the issuance of additional SVS, contingent upon Curaleaf exceeding $300,000 in calendar year 2020 revenue for Select-branded retail extract sales.

 

The Select transaction closed on February 1, 2020.

 

23

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Ohio Grown Therapies, LLC, an Ohio limited liability company (“OGT”)

 

In May 2019, the Company entered into an agreement granting it an option to acquire OGT for $20,000. The Company paid $5,000 cash in May 2019 and the remaining consideration will be paid upon completion of milestones, culminating with regulatory approval of the transfer of the final licenses and OGT facility to Curaleaf.  The closing of this transaction is currently pending regulatory approval.

 

GR Companies, Inc., a Delaware company (“Grassroots”)

 

In July 2019, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire Grassroots, a large, private, vertically-integrated multi-state operator, for consideration composed of $75,000 in cash, and approximately 102,808,038 SVS. Consideration is subject to adjustments for working capital and cash at closing. Consideration also includes additional SVS equal to the quotient obtained by dividing $40,000 by the higher of (i) the 10-day volume-weighted average price per SVS, determined as of the close of business on the last business day prior to the closing date, on the CSE and (ii) eighty-five percent (85%) of the 1-day volume-weighted average price per SVS determined two trading days prior to the closing date of such SVS on the CSE. In February 2020, the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 expired with respect to the acquisition of Grassroots. The closing of this transaction is currently pending completion of certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

 

Arrow Alternative Care, Inc., Arrow Alternative Care #2, Inc., Arrow Alternative Care #3, Inc., each a Delaware corporation (collectively, the “Arrow Companies”)

 

In March 2020, the Company signed definitive agreements to acquire the Arrow Companies, which operate licensed medical cannabis dispensaries in Stamford, Hartford, and Milford, Connecticut.  The aggregated consideration to be paid for the Arrow Companies is $38,000, consisting of $16,400 cash and $21,600 to be paid in SVS. The closing of this transaction is currently pending completion of certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

 

Virginia’s Kitchen, LLC, a Colorado company d/b/a Blue Kudu (“Blue Kudu”)

 

In February 2020, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of Blue Kudu, a Colorado-licensed processor and producer cannabis edibles, operating an 8,400 sq.ft. facility in Denver, Colorado.    The consideration to be paid for Blue Kudu consists of 322,580 SVS, $1,250 cash at closing of the transaction and a 5% note for $500 due ten and a half months from closing. The closing of this transaction is currently pending completion of certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

 

24

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Note 5 — Inventory

 

Inventory consist of the following:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Raw materials
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Harvested   cannabis
    	
 
    	
$
    	
19,232
    	
 
    	
$
    	
15,979
    	
 
    
	
Harvested trim
    	
 
    	
2,890
    	
 
    	
807
    	
 
    
	
Total raw   materials
    	
 
    	
22,122
    	
 
    	
16,786
    	
 
    
	
Work-in-process
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Processing
    	
 
    	
16,277
    	
 
    	
3,653
    	
 
    
	
Finished goods
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Consumables
    	
 
    	
7,452
    	
 
    	
4,420
    	
 
    
	
Flower
    	
 
    	
2,696
    	
 
    	
332
    	
 
    
	
Extracts
    	
 
    	
14,663
    	
 
    	
2,785
    	
 
    
	
Total finished   goods
    	
 
    	
24,811
    	
 
    	
7,537
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
63,210
    	
 
    	
$
    	
27,976
    	
 
    

 

Note 6 — Biological assets

 

The following table is a reconciliation of carrying amount of the biological assets:

 

	
Balance at December 31, 2017
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,439
    	
 
    
	
Assets obtained   in the acquisition of CLMA
    	
 
    	
527
    	
 
    
	
Assets obtained   in the acquisition of Swell
    	
 
    	
125
    	
 
    
	
Unrealized fair   value gain on growth of biological assets
    	
 
    	
16,471
    	
 
    
	
Increase in   biological assets due to capitalized costs
    	
 
    	
11,297
    	
 
    
	
Transferred to   inventory upon harvest
    	
 
    	
(25,368
    	
)
    
	
Balance at   December 31, 2018
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,491
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Balance at   December 31, 2018
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,491
    	
 
    
	
Assets obtained   in the acquisition of HMS
    	
 
    	
469
    	
 
    
	
Assets obtained   in the acquisition of Eureka
    	
 
    	
577
    	
 
    
	
Assets obtained   in the acquisition of Acres
    	
 
    	
567
    	
 
    
	
Unrealized fair   value gain on growth of biological assets
    	
 
    	
97,738
    	
 
    
	
Increase in   biological assets due to capitalized costs
    	
 
    	
20,661
    	
 
    
	
Transferred to   inventory upon harvest
    	
 
    	
(105,306
    	
)
    
	
Balance at December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
$
    	
19,197
    	
 
    

 

Biological assets consisted of actively growing cannabis plants to be harvested as agricultural produce.

 

The average grow cycle of plants up to the point of harvest is approximately twelve weeks. Plants not in production are valued at the fair market value less costs to sell. Plants in production are plants that are in the flowering stage and are valued at fair value less cost to complete and cost to sell, where fair value represents the Company’s selling price per gram of dried cannabis. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, it was expected that the Company’s biological assets would yield 7,031,057 and 1,526,418 grams of cannabis when harvested, respectively. See Note 19 for the inputs and sensitivity analysis for the fair value of the biological assets.

 

25

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Note 7 — Notes receivable

 

Notes receivable consist of the following:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Notes receivable   Curaleaf NJ, Inc.
    	
 
    	
$
    	
56,437
    	
 
    	
$
    	
32,536
    	
 
    
	
Notes receivable   Evio
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
533
    	
 
    
	
Notes receivable   Remedy Compassion Center, Inc.
    	
 
    	
729
    	
 
    	
722
    	
 
    
	
Notes receivable   from other third parties
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
20
    	
 
    
	
Total notes   receivable
    	
 
    	
$
    	
57,166
    	
 
    	
$
    	
33,811
    	
 
    

 

In September 2017, the Company entered into a $1,000 note receivable with Evio in connection with the PhytaTech disposal. The note receivable has an interest rate of 8% per annum with all outstanding interest payable on July 6, 2018. The notes receivable contain certain financial and non-financial covenants. During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company recorded $47 and $61 of interest income, respectively. The note receivable was paid off in February 2019.

 

In October 2016, the Company entered into a $500 note receivable with Remedy Compassion Center, Inc (“RMC”). The note receivable has an interest rate of 12% and interest payments are payable monthly. The principal balance of the loan is payable upon the maturity date of December 31, 2019. The notes receivable carries certain financial and non-financial covenants. During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company recorded $82 and $73 of interest income, respectively.

 

In February 2011, the Company entered into a management services agreement which included a $2,500 credit facility, structured as a ten year term loan, with Curaleaf NJ, Inc., an unrelated party. The term loan has an interest rate of 18% and interest payments are payable quarterly or added to the principal balance of the loan if payment is not made. In January 2019, the Company entered into an amended and restated conditionally convertible promissory note (“Convertible Note”) to increase the term loan up to $70,000 with the same interest rate of 18% and maturity date of December 31, 2021. During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company recorded $8,017 and $4,070 of interest income, respectively.  Additionally, the Company provides Curaleaf NJ, Inc. with management services for fees which are added to the note receivable. Revenue from Curaleaf NJ, Inc. accounted for approximately 17% and 18% of total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

 

Under the terms of the Convertible Note, the outstanding balance of the principal and interest is convertible upon conversion of Curaleaf, NJ, Inc. from a non-for-profit corporation to a for-profit corporation in accordance with New Jersey law. In January 2020, Curaleaf NJ, Inc. submitted a request for authorization to sell and transfer its alternative treatment center (“ATC”) permit and substantially all of its assets to the Company in exchange for forgiveness of the outstanding balance of the principal and interest of the Convertible Note.  Upon receiving approval from the State of New Jersey and other regulatory bodies, it is expected that the Company will acquire Curaleaf NJ, Inc. with consideration consisting of the balance of the principal and interest of the Convertible Note.

 

The notes receivable are secured by assets or ownership interests in the customers’ business. The Company had $729 of notes receivable past due at December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2018 the Company had $533 of notes receivable past due, however the full balance was repaid in February 2019.

 

26

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Note 8 — Property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment and related accumulated depreciation consist of the following:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Land
    	
 
    	
$
    	
487
    	
 
    	
$
    	
210
    	
 
    
	
Building and   improvements
    	
 
    	
87,563
    	
 
    	
48,060
    	
 
    
	
Furniture and   fixtures
    	
 
    	
37,526
    	
 
    	
13,486
    	
 
    
	
Information   technology
    	
 
    	
1,858
    	
 
    	
582
    	
 
    
	
Construction in   progress
    	
 
    	
20,387
    	
 
    	
10,119
    	
 
    
	
Total property   and equipment
    	
 
    	
147,821
    	
 
    	
72,457
    	
 
    
	
Less:   Accumulated depreciation
    	
 
    	
(18,009
    	
)
    	
(5,488
    	
)
    
	
Property, plant   and equipment, net
    	
 
    	
$
    	
129,812
    	
 
    	
$
    	
66,969
    	
 
    

 

In August 2019, the Company entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement (“PSA”) with Freehold Properties, Inc. (“Freehold”) in which Freehold agreed to purchase 7 of the Company’s buildings that are used in the cultivation, manufacture and sale of cannabis. As part of the PSA, the Company agreed to lease the buildings from Freehold over a ten-year period. The Company received $25,245 cash and 311,991 shares of Freehold stock valued at $2,836. The Company recognized a gain of $693 as a result of the sale.

 

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of property and equipment and accumulated depreciation is as follows:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Construction
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Building and
    	
 
    	
Furniture and
    	
 
    	
Information
    	
 
    	
in
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Land
    	
 
    	
Improvements
    	
 
    	
Fixtures
    	
 
    	
Technology
    	
 
    	
Progress
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
Cost
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
As of   December 31, 2017
    	
 
    	
$
    	
210
    	
 
    	
$
    	
17,725
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5,053
    	
 
    	
$
    	
243
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,513
    	
 
    	
$
    	
24,744
    	
 
    
	
Additions
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
15,558
    	
 
    	
5,788
    	
 
    	
415
    	
 
    	
23,958
    	
 
    	
45,719
    	
 
    
	
Business   acquisitions
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,442
    	
 
    	
397
    	
 
    	
4
    	
 
    	
215
    	
 
    	
3,058
    	
 
    
	
Disposals
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(863
    	
)
    	
(111
    	
)
    	
(86
    	
)
    	
(4
    	
)
    	
(1,064
    	
)
    
	
Transfers
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
13,198
    	
 
    	
2,359
    	
 
    	
6
    	
 
    	
(15,563
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
As of   December 31, 2018
    	
 
    	
$
    	
210
    	
 
    	
$
    	
48,060
    	
 
    	
$
    	
13,486
    	
 
    	
$
    	
582
    	
 
    	
$
    	
10,119
    	
 
    	
$
    	
72,457
    	
 
    
	
Additions
    	
 
    	
277
    	
 
    	
39,280
    	
 
    	
25,307
    	
 
    	
1,677
    	
 
    	
35,439
    	
 
    	
101,980
    	
 
    
	
Business   acquisitions
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
5,365
    	
 
    	
2,050
    	
 
    	
2
    	
 
    	
512
    	
 
    	
7,929
    	
 
    
	
Disposals
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(26,348
    	
)
    	
(2,525
    	
)
    	
(840
    	
)
    	
(4,832
    	
)
    	
(34,545
    	
)
    
	
Transfers
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
21,206
    	
 
    	
(792
    	
)
    	
437
    	
 
    	
(20,851
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Balance as of December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
$
    	
487
    	
 
    	
$
    	
87,563
    	
 
    	
$
    	
37,526
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,858
    	
 
    	
$
    	
20,387
    	
 
    	
$
    	
147,821
    	
 
    

 

27

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Construction
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Building and
    	
 
    	
Furniture and
    	
 
    	
Information
    	
 
    	
in
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Land
    	
 
    	
Improvements
    	
 
    	
Fixtures
    	
 
    	
Technology
    	
 
    	
Progress
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
Accumulated   depreciation
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
As of   December 31, 2017
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
681
    	
 
    	
$
    	
462
    	
 
    	
$
    	
82
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,225
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,841
    	
 
    	
1,405
    	
 
    	
94
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
4,340
    	
 
    
	
Disposals
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(1
    	
)
    	
(7
    	
)
    	
(69
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(77
    	
)
    
	
Transfers
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
As of   December 31, 2018
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
3,521
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,860
    	
 
    	
$
    	
107
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5,488
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
7,680
    	
 
    	
6,041
    	
 
    	
403
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
14,124
    	
 
    
	
Disposals
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(635
    	
)
    	
(24
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(944
    	
)
    	
(1,603
    	
)
    
	
Transfers
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Balance as of   December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
10,566
    	
 
    	
$
    	
7,877
    	
 
    	
$
    	
510
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(944
    	
)
    	
$
    	
18,009
    	
 
    

 

Total depreciation expense of $14,124 and $4,340 for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, which includes $5,505 and $1,226 recognized as cost of goods sold and $8,619 and $3,114 recognized as a part of operating expenses in the consolidated statements of profits and losses.

 

There were no impairments recorded against property, plant and equipment during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018.

 

Note 9 — Goodwill and intangible assets

 

Identifiable intangible assets consist of the following:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Balance at
    	
 
    	
Prior
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Year-to-date
    	
 
    	
Balance at 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31,
    	
 
    	
Acquisitions (1)
    	
 
    	
Acquisitions
    	
 
    	
amortization
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
Licenses
    	
 
    	
$
    	
50,842
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,485
    	
 
    	
$
    	
139,946
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(12,304
    	
)
    	
$
    	
182,969
    	
 
    
	
Trade names
    	
 
    	
1,981
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
370
    	
 
    	
(430
    	
)
    	
1,921
    	
 
    
	
Non-compete   agreements
    	
 
    	
102
    	
 
    	
100
    	
 
    	
700
    	
 
    	
(157
    	
)
    	
745
    	
 
    
	
Total intangible   assets, net
    	
 
    	
$
    	
52,925
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,585
    	
 
    	
$
    	
141,016
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(12,891
    	
)
    	
$
    	
185,635
    	
 
    

 

(1)         During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company completed the purchase price allocation for MTR which resulted in a corresponding reallocation from goodwill to intangibles.

 

Amortization of intangible assets was $12,891 and $4,313 for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

 

The Company has determined that the goodwill associated with all acquisitions belong to the cannabis operations segment. There was no goodwill associated with the non-cannabis operations segment for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018. The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the cannabis operations segment were as follows:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Balance at
    	
 
    	
Prior
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
Balance at 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 2018
    	
 
    	
Acquisitions (1)
    	
 
    	
Acquisitions
    	
 
    	
December 31, 2019
    	
 
    
	
2017   Acquisitions
    	
 
    	
$
    	
31,561
    	
 
    	
$
    	
289
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
31,850
    	
 
    
	
Acquisition of   CLMA
    	
 
    	
2,747
    	
 
    	
1,769
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
4,516
    	
 
    
	
Acquisition of   Swell
    	
 
    	
6,216
    	
 
    	
5,492
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
11,708
    	
 
    
	
Acquisition of   MTR
    	
 
    	
6,743
    	
 
    	
(2,962
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
3,781
    	
 
    
	
Acquisition of   Acres
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
17,471
    	
 
    	
17,471
    	
 
    
	
Total Goodwill
    	
 
    	
$
    	
47,267
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,588
    	
 
    	
$
    	
17,471
    	
 
    	
$
    	
69,326
    	
 
    

 

28

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

(1)         During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company completed the purchase price allocation for MTR and recorded several deferred tax liabilities for prior acquisitions.

 

There was no goodwill impairment at any CGUs as of December 31, 2019 or 2018.

 

Note 10 — Notes payable

 

Notes payable consist of the following:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Senior Unsecured   Notes — 2019
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Principal amount
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
2,570
    	
 
    
	
Unamortized debt   discount
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(167
    	
)
    
	
Net carrying   amount
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,403
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Financing   Agreement — 2021
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Principal amount   and interest accrued
    	
 
    	
90,795
    	
 
    	
86,335
    	
 
    
	
Unamortized debt   discount
    	
 
    	
(5,773
    	
)
    	
(8,023
    	
)
    
	
Net carrying   amount
    	
 
    	
85,022
    	
 
    	
78,312
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Secured   Promissory Notes - 2029
    	
 
    	
2,505
    	
 
    	
2,654
    	
 
    
	
Seller note   payable
    	
 
    	
17,000
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Other notes   payable
    	
 
    	
426
    	
 
    	
935
    	
 
    
	
Total notes   payable
    	
 
    	
$
    	
104,953
    	
 
    	
$
    	
84,304
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Current portion   of notes payable
    	
 
    	
17,000
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Current portion   of notes payable - related parties
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
2,403
    	
 
    
	
Long term notes   payable
    	
 
    	
87,953
    	
 
    	
81,901
    	
 
    
	
Total notes   payable
    	
 
    	
$
    	
104,953
    	
 
    	
$
    	
84,304
    	
 
    

 

Senior Unsecured Notes — 2019

 

In 2016, the Company entered into promissory notes (the “Senior Unsecured Notes — 2019”) with various related parties (see Note 18) for an aggregate principal amount of $2,570. The Senior Unsecured Notes — 2019 was repaid in full in December 2019.

 

The Senior Unsecured Notes — 2019 require interest-only payments at a rate of 14% per annum, payable quarterly, prior to maturity on December 30, 2019. Upon maturity, the Company shall pay all principal and accrued but unpaid interest. At its option, the Company may prepay the notes in full at any time before maturity.

 

In connection with the Senior Unsecured Notes — 2019, the Company issued warrants to purchase 4,609,288 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.11 per share. The liability component of the notes was recorded at fair value of $2,201 and the equity component at the residual amount of $369. A debt discount is reflected as a reduction of the carrying

 

29

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

value of the long-term debt on the Company’s consolidated statement of financial position and is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the notes using the effective interest method.

 

The Company recognized interest expense under the Senior Unsecured Notes — 2019 of $364 and $447 for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, including interest expense related to the amortization of the debt discount of $0 and $82.

 

Financing Agreement — 2021

 

In August 2018, the Company issued $85,000 of senior secured debt (the “Financing Agreement — 2021”). In connection with this agreement, the Company paid a fee of $1,700 upon the initial funding.

 

The Financing Agreement — 2021 accrues interest at a rate of 15% per annum, of which 10% is payable in cash quarterly and 5% is payable in kind. Principal and interest are due in full on August 23, 2021.  The Financing Agreement — 2021 is secured by a guarantee of each wholly-owned direct and indirect subsidiary of the Company, as well as a pledge of the Company’s assets and each such guarantor and contains certain negative covenants, including restrictions on its ability to pay dividends, invest in non-wholly owned entities and to incur non-subordinated debt.

 

The Financing Agreement — 2021 may be pre-paid in tranches of up to $25,000 or $50,000 upon 90 or 180 days written notice. Any amount prepaid once the outstanding principal falls below $25,000 is subject to a prepayment premium.

 

In connection with the Financing Agreement — 2021, the Company issued warrants to purchase 3,598,492 shares of common stock for a nominal value. The liability component of the notes was recorded at fair value of $77,556 and the equity component at the residual amount of $7,444. A debt discount is reflected as a reduction of the carrying value of the long-term debt on the Company’s consolidated statements of financial position and is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the notes using the effective interest method.

 

The Company recognized interest expense under the Financing Agreement — 2021 of $15,682 and $5,215 for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, including interest expense related to the amortization of the debt discount of $2,250 and $1,211, respectively.

 

The Company satisfied in full its obligations under the Financing Agreement — 2021 in connection with and out of the proceeds from with the new senior secured debt facility that occurred in January 2020 (see Note 20).

 

Secured Promissory Notes — 2029

 

In January 2017, the Company entered into secured promissory notes (the “Secured Promissory Notes — 2029”) with certain individuals for an aggregate principal amount of $2,505.

 

The Secured Promissory Notes — 2029 accrue interest at a rate of 12% per annum on the first $224 and 14% per annum on the remaining balance. Principal and interest are due in full on May 1, 2029.

 

The Company recognized interest expense under the Secured Promissory Notes — 2029 of $300 and $239 for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

 

Seller note

 

The Company issued certain notes payable in conjunction with the Emerald acquisition in the amount of $8,000, the Glendale acquisition in the amount of $7,500, and the Phyto acquisition in the amount of $1,500. The Company recognized $692 of interest expense on the Seller Note for the year ended December 31, 2019 (see Note 4).

 

30

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Future maturities

 

As of December 31, 2019, future principal payments due under Notes payable were as follows:

 

	
Year ending December 31,
    	
 
    	
Amount
    	
 
    
	
2020
    	
 
    	
$
    	
17,000
    	
 
    
	
2021
    	
 
    	
90,795
    	
 
    
	
2022
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
2023
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
2024 and   thereafter
    	
 
    	
2,931
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
110,726
    	
 
    

 

Note 11 — Shareholders’ equity

 

The authorized and issued share capital of the Company is as follows:

 

Authorized

 

As of December 31, 2019 the authorized share capital consists of an unlimited number of MVS without par value and an unlimited number of SVS without par value.

 

Issued

 

In connection with the reverse takeover transaction discussed in Note 3, each issued and outstanding share of the Company was converted into the right to receive 32.71 of SVS.  Prior period share amounts have been adjusted to reflect the conversion.  Also, in connection with the reverse takeover transaction, the Company issued 188,646 SVS for the purchase of LVI with an issuance date fair value of $940.

 

Multiple voting shares —  Holders of the MVS are entitled to 15 votes per share and are entitled to notice of and to attend at any meeting of the shareholders, except a meeting of which only holders of another particular class or series of shares will have the right to vote. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the MVS represent approximately 22.1% and 26.7%, respectively, of the total issued and outstanding shares and 81% and 84.5%, respectively, of the voting power attached to such outstanding shares. The MVS are convertible into SVS on a one-for-one basis at any time at the option of the holder or upon termination of the MVS structure. The MVS structure will terminate automatically on October 25, 2021. It will also terminate automatically upon the occurrence of the following events: (i) transfer or disposition of the MVS by the Company’s Executive Chairman, Boris Jordan, to one or more third parties which are not certain permitted holders as described in the Company’s Articles, and (ii) Mr. Jordan or his permitted holders no longer beneficially owning, directly or indirectly and in the aggregate, at least 50% of the issued and outstanding SVS and MVS. In 2019, the holder of 18,200,000 MVS voluntarily converted 18,200,000 MVS into SVS. As of December 31, 2019, the Company had 103,970,705 MVS issued and outstanding.

 

Subordinate voting shares — Holders of the SVS are entitled to one vote per share. As of December 31, 2019 the Company had 366,114,366 SVS issued and outstanding.

 

The Company had reserved 52,237,230 and 50,848,420 SVS, as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, for the issuance of stock options under the Company’s 2018 Long Term Incentive Plan (see Note 12).

 

31

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Treasury shares

 

For the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 147,900 shares for a purchase price of $5.97 per share, or a total of $883. For the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company purchased an aggregate of 4,340,586 shares for the purchase price of $0.77 per share, or a total of $3,359. The amount is reflected as treasury shares in the consolidated statement of financial position.

 

Warrants

 

In connection with the Senior Unsecured Notes — 2019, the Company issued to the noteholders warrants to purchase 4,609,288 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.1113 per share.

 

In connection with the Financing Agreement — 2021, the Company issued to the noteholders warrants to purchase 3,598,492 shares of common stock at nominal value.

 

In connection with the reverse takeover transaction and private placement described in Note 3 all outstanding warrants were exercised in full immediately prior to the effective time of the merger of the Company with and into LVI. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018 there were no outstanding warrants to purchase shares.

 

Note 12 — Share-based payment arrangements

 

Stock option programs

 

The 2011 and 2015 Equity Incentive Plans provide for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights and other share-based awards. In connection with the Business Combination, all unexercised stock options of Curaleaf, Inc. issued and outstanding under the 2011 and 2015 Equity Incentive Plans were converted to the option to receive an equivalent substitute option under the 2018 Long Term Incentive Plan (the “LTIP”).  The LTIP provides for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and restricted stock units, performance awards, dividend equivalents, and other share-based awards.  The number of SVS reserved for issuance under the LTIP is calculated as 10% of the aggregate number of SVS and MVS outstanding on an “as-converted” basis.

 

Stock option valuation

 

The fair value of each stock option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model, where appropriate. In instances where stock options have performance or market conditions, the Company utilizes the Monte Carlo valuation model to simulate the various outcomes that affect the value of the option.

 

The weighted average inputs used in the measurement of the grant date fair values of the equity-settled share-based payment plans were as follows:

 

32

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Fair value at   grant date
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5.97
    	
 
    	
$
    	
2.85
    	
 
    
	
Share price at   grant date
    	
 
    	
$
    	
7.67
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4.96
    	
 
    
	
Exercise price
    	
 
    	
$
    	
7.76
    	
 
    	
$
    	
2.99
    	
 
    
	
Expected   volatility
    	
 
    	
87.2
    	
%
    	
145.8
    	
%
    
	
Expected life
    	
 
    	
6.9
    	
years
    	
6.8
    	
years
    
	
Expected   dividends
    	
 
    	
—
    	
%
    	
—
    	
%
    
	
Risk-free   interest rate (based on government bonds)
    	
 
    	
1.90
    	
%
    	
2.68
    	
%
    

 

The expected volatility is estimated based on the historical volatility of a publicly traded set of peer companies. The expected life in years represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The expected term of stock options granted to non-employees is equal to the contractual term of the option award. The risk-free interest rate is determined by reference to the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant of the award for time periods approximately equal to the expected term of the award. Expected dividend yield is based on the fact that the Company has never paid cash dividends and does not expect to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company recorded share-based compensation in the amount of $16,607 and $2,229, respectively.

 

Reconciliation of outstanding share options

 

The number and weighted-average exercise prices of share options under the share option program were as follows:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Weighted
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Weighted
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Number of
    	
 
    	
average
    	
 
    	
Number of
    	
 
    	
average
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
options
    	
 
    	
exercise price
    	
 
    	
options
    	
 
    	
exercise price
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Outstanding at   January 1
    	
 
    	
31,269,448
    	
 
    	
$
    	
0.94
    	
 
    	
34,377,946
    	
 
    	
$
    	
0.26
    	
 
    
	
Forfeited during   the year
    	
 
    	
(178,086
    	
)
    	
1.10
    	
 
    	
(2,371,475
    	
)
    	
0.48
    	
 
    
	
Exercised during   the year
    	
 
    	
(6,905,117
    	
)
    	
0.31
    	
 
    	
(5,544,345
    	
)
    	
0.10
    	
 
    
	
Granted during   the year
    	
 
    	
2,733,370
    	
 
    	
8.35
    	
 
    	
4,807,322
    	
 
    	
4.76
    	
 
    
	
Outstanding   at December 31
    	
 
    	
26,919,615
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1.59
    	
 
    	
31,269,448
    	
 
    	
$
    	
0.94
    	
 
    
	
Options   exercisable at December 31
    	
 
    	
17,453,214
    	
 
    	
$
    	
0.24
    	
 
    	
17,429,398
    	
 
    	
$
    	
0.23
    	
 
    

 

Restricted stock units (“RSUs”)

 

The number of RSUs awarded under the 2018 LTIP Plan were as follows:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Number of RSUs
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Outstanding at   January 1
    	
 
    	
166,215
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Released during   the year
    	
 
    	
(166,215
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Granted during   the year
    	
 
    	
2,170,064
    	
 
    	
166,215
    	
 
    
	
Outstanding   at December 31
    	
 
    	
2,170,064
    	
 
    	
166,215
    	
 
    
	
RSUs vested at   December 31
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    

 

33

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Note 13 — Selling, general, and administrative expense

 

Selling, general, and administrative expenses consist of the following:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Selling, general   and administrative expenses:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Salaries and   benefits
    	
 
    	
$
    	
52,737
    	
 
    	
$
    	
27,773
    	
 
    
	
Sales and   marketing
    	
 
    	
12,188
    	
 
    	
4,264
    	
 
    
	
Rent and   occupancy
    	
 
    	
4,613
    	
 
    	
7,944
    	
 
    
	
Travel
    	
 
    	
6,574
    	
 
    	
3,131
    	
 
    
	
Professional   fees
    	
 
    	
30,550
    	
 
    	
12,564
    	
 
    
	
Office supplies   and services
    	
 
    	
8,290
    	
 
    	
4,662
    	
 
    
	
Other
    	
 
    	
6,070
    	
 
    	
4,974
    	
 
    
	
Total selling,   general and administrative expense
    	
 
    	
$
    	
121,022
    	
 
    	
$
    	
65,312
    	
 
    

 

Note 14 — Income taxes

 

The tax provision amounts recognized in the consolidated statements of profits and losses were as follows:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Current year
    	
 
    	
$
    	
14,977
    	
 
    	
$
    	
3,448
    	
 
    
	
Provision to   return adjustment
    	
 
    	
2,123
    	
 
    	
(304
    	
)
    
	
Current tax   expense
    	
 
    	
17,100
    	
 
    	
3,144
    	
 
    
	
Deferred tax   expense
    	
 
    	
6,959
    	
 
    	
2,499
    	
 
    
	
Provision for   income taxes
    	
 
    	
$
    	
24,059
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5,643
    	
 
    

 

On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) was signed into U.S. law. The Tax Act includes a number of changes to existing tax law, including, among other things, a permanent reduction in the federal corporate income tax rate from 34% to 21%, effective as of January 1, 2018, as well as limitation of the deduction for net operating losses to 80% of annual taxable income and elimination of net operating loss carrybacks, in each case, for losses arising in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 (though any such net operating losses may be carried forward indefinitely). Under the Tax Act, the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities were remeasured at the lower federal tax rate, resulting in an income tax benefit of $672 recorded in the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

The Company’s provision for income taxes differs from applying the U.S. federal income tax rate to income before taxes primarily due to state income taxes, certain stock compensation, warrants accretion, tax credits and miscellaneous permanent differences.

 

34

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate to the Company’s effective income tax rate is as follows:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Loss before   provision for income taxes
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(45,789
    	
)
    	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(56,234
    	
)
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Tax using the   Company’s domestic tax rate
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(6,868
    	
)
    	
15.0
    	
%
    	
$
    	
(8,435
    	
)
    	
15.0
    	
%
    
	
Effect of tax   rates in foreign jurisdictions
    	
 
    	
(2,747
    	
)
    	
6.0
    	
%
    	
(3,371
    	
)
    	
6.0
    	
%
    
	
Reduction in tax   rate
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
%
    	
(8
    	
)
    	
0.0
    	
%
    
	
Tax effect of:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
State taxes, net   of federal benefit
    	
 
    	
3,130
    	
 
    	
(6.8
    	
)%
    	
1,302
    	
 
    	
(2.3
    	
)%
    
	
Share-based   compensation
    	
 
    	
4,993
    	
 
    	
(10.9
    	
)%
    	
458
    	
 
    	
(0.8
    	
)%
    
	
Warrant   accretion
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
%
    	
(136
    	
)
    	
0.2
    	
%
    
	
Non-taxable   partnership income
    	
 
    	
(137
    	
)
    	
0.3
    	
%
    	
5,271
    	
 
    	
(9.4
    	
)%
    
	
Non-deductible   expenses
    	
 
    	
18,341
    	
 
    	
(40.1
    	
)%
    	
10,348
    	
 
    	
(18.4
    	
)%
    
	
Non-taxable gain
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
%
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
%
    
	
Tax credits
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
%
    	
(56
    	
)
    	
0.1
    	
%
    
	
Other
    	
 
    	
1,290
    	
 
    	
(2.8
    	
)%
    	
131
    	
 
    	
(0.2
    	
)%
    
	
Unrecognized   deferred tax asset on current year losses
    	
 
    	
6,057
    	
 
    	
(13.2
    	
)%
    	
139
    	
 
    	
(0.2
    	
)%
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
24,059
    	
 
    	
(52.5
    	
)%
    	
$
    	
5,643
    	
 
    	
(10.0
    	
)%
    

 

As the Company operates in the legal cannabis industry, the Company is subject to Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code (“IRC”) which prohibits businesses engaged in the trafficking of controlled substances (within the meaning of Schedule I and II of the CSA) from deducting normal business expenses associated with the sale of cannabis, such as payroll and rent, from gross income (revenue less cost of goods sold). Section 280E, therefore, has a significant impact on the retail side of cannabis, but a lesser impact on cultivation and manufacturing operations.  Section 280E was originally intended to penalize criminal market operators, but because cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance for U.S. Federal purposes, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has subsequently applied Section 280E to state-legal cannabis businesses. The effective tax rate on a cannabis business depends on how large its ratio of non-deductible expenses is to its total revenues.  In the states that the Company operates in that align their tax codes with Section 280E, it is also unable to deduct normal business expenses for state tax purposes. This results in permanent differences between ordinary and necessary business expenses deemed non-allowable and a higher effective tax rate than most industries.  Cannabis businesses operating in states that align their tax codes with the IRC are also unable to deduct normal business expenses for state tax purposes.  The non-deductible expenses shown in the effective rate reconciliation above is comprised primarily of the impact of applying Section 280E to the Company’s businesses that are involved in selling cannabis, along with other typical non-deductible expenses such as lobbying expenses.

 

The IRS has invoked Section 280E in tax audits against various cannabis businesses in the U.S. that are permitted under applicable state laws. Although the IRS issued a clarification allowing the deduction of certain expenses, the scope of such items is interpreted very narrowly, and the bulk of operating costs and general administrative costs are not permitted to be deducted. While there are currently several pending cases before various administrative and federal courts challenging these restrictions, there is no guarantee that these courts will issue an interpretation of Section 280E favorable to cannabis businesses.  Further, there are several pieces of legislation being considered by the U.S. Congress that could change the interpretation of Section 280E by removing its applicability to the legalized cannabis industry. Given these facts, the 

 

35

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

impact of any such challenge cannot be reliably estimated; however, it may be significant to the financial condition and/or the overall operations of the Company.

 

Changes in the Company’s deferred taxes were as follows:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Acquired in
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Deferred
    	
 
    	
Deferred
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Net balance
    	
 
    	
Recognized in
    	
 
    	
business
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
tax
    	
 
    	
tax
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
at January 1
    	
 
    	
profit or loss
    	
 
    	
combination
    	
 
    	
Net
    	
 
    	
asset
    	
 
    	
liability
    	
 
    
	
As of   December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation and   amortization
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(5,163
    	
)
    	
$
    	
7,122
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(9,368
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(7,409
    	
)
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(7,409
    	
)
    
	
Accrued &   prepaid expenses
    	
 
    	
(455
    	
)
    	
(7,226
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(7,681
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(7,681
    	
)
    
	
Share-based   compensation
    	
 
    	
1,117
    	
 
    	
(1,117
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Inventory
    	
 
    	
(890
    	
)
    	
(6,662
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(7,552
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(7,552
    	
)
    
	
Tax loss   carryforward
    	
 
    	
903
    	
 
    	
1,460
    	
 
    	
265
    	
 
    	
2,628
    	
 
    	
2,628
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Tax credit carryforward
    	
 
    	
536
    	
 
    	
(536
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Tax asset   (liability) before set-off
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(3,952
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(6,959
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(9,103
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(20,014
    	
)
    	
$
    	
2,628
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(22,642
    	
)
    

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Acquired in
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
Deferred
    	
 
    	
Deferred
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Net balance
    	
 
    	
Recognized in
    	
 
    	
business
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
tax
    	
 
    	
tax
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
at January 1
    	
 
    	
profit or loss
    	
 
    	
combination
    	
 
    	
Net
    	
 
    	
asset
    	
 
    	
liability
    	
 
    
	
As of   December 31, 2018
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation and   amortization
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(1,369
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(3,794
    	
)
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(5,163
    	
)
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(5,163
    	
)
    
	
Accrued &   prepaid expenses
    	
 
    	
(1,038
    	
)
    	
583
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(455
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(455
    	
)
    
	
Share-based compensation
    	
 
    	
815
    	
 
    	
302
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,117
    	
 
    	
1,117
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Inventory
    	
 
    	
(1,097
    	
)
    	
207
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(890
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(890
    	
)
    
	
Tax loss   carryforward
    	
 
    	
1,236
    	
 
    	
(333
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
903
    	
 
    	
903
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Tax credit   carryforward
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
536
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
536
    	
 
    	
536
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Tax asset   (liability) before set-off
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(1,453
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(2,499
    	
)
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(3,952
    	
)
    	
$
    	
2,556
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(6,508
    	
)
    

 

Future realization of the tax benefits of existing temporary differences and net operating loss carryforwards ultimately depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income within the carryforward period. As the Company generally files separate U.S. and state tax returns for each legal entity within the consolidated group, the Company must evaluate the realization of deferred tax assets separately. As of December 31, 2019, the Company performed an evaluation to determine whether the net deferred tax assets at each filing group could be recognized. The Company considered all available evidence, both positive and negative, which included the results of operations for the current and preceding years. The Company determined that the U.S. parent company, along with its Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Ohio, and Oregon operations should not recognize their deferred tax assets due to those companies being in cumulative loss positions.

 

Under IRC 382, if a corporation undergoes an “ownership change,” the corporation’s ability to use its pre-change NOL carryforwards and other pre-change tax attributes to offset its post-change income may be limited. The Company has not completed a study to assess whether an “ownership change” has occurred or whether there have been multiple ownership changes since the Company became a “loss corporation” as defined in Section 382. Future changes in the Company’s stock ownership, which may be outside of the Company’s control, may trigger an “ownership change.” In addition, future equity offerings or acquisitions that have equity as a component of the purchase price could result in an “ownership change.” If an “ownership change” has occurred or does occur in the future, utilization of the NOL carryforwards or other tax attributes may be limited, which could potentially result in increased future tax liability to the Company.

 

36

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Deferred tax assets have not been recognized with respect to the following items, because it is deemed not probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the Company can utilize them.

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
December 31, 2018
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Gross amount
    	
 
    	
Tax amount
    	
 
    	
Gross amount
    	
 
    	
Tax amount
    	
 
    
	
Deductible/(taxable)   temporary differences
    	
 
    	
$
    	
20,535
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5,798
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(443
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(116
    	
)
    
	
Tax losses
    	
 
    	
65,345
    	
 
    	
17,447
    	
 
    	
5,708
    	
 
    	
627
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
85,880
    	
 
    	
$
    	
23,245
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5,265
    	
 
    	
$
    	
511
    	
 
    

 

At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company had tax loss carryforwards of $84,913 and $3,934, respectively, which begin to expire between 2020 through 2038 and 2020 through 2037, respectively. At December 31, 2019, the Company had a tax loss carryforward of $70,753 which will never expire.

 

The calculation of the Company’s tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws and regulations for both federal taxes and the many states in which the Company operates and conducts business.

 

Note 15 — Earnings per share

 

Basic and diluted loss per share attributable to Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. was calculated as follows:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Numerator:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Net loss and comprehensive   loss
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(69,848
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(61,877
    	
)
    
	
Less: Net loss   attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest
    	
 
    	
(2,604
    	
)
    	
(5,410
    	
)
    
	
Net loss   attributable to Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. — basic and diluted
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(67,244
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(56,467
    	
)
    
	
Denominator:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Weighted average   common shares outstanding — basic and diluted
    	
 
    	
462,911,053
    	
 
    	
396,498,411
    	
 
    
	
Loss per share —   basic and diluted
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(0.15
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.14
    	
)
    

 

The Company’s potentially dilutive securities, which include stock options and warrants to purchase shares of stock, have been excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share as the effect would be to reduce the net loss per share. Therefore, the weighted average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate both basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to shareholders is the same. The Company excluded the following potential shares, presented based on amounts outstanding at each period end, from the computation of diluted loss per share attributable to Curaleaf, Inc. for the periods indicated because including them would have had an anti-dilutive effect:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Options to   purchase common stock
    	
 
    	
26,919,615
    	
 
    	
31,269,448
    	
 
    

 

In addition to the potentially dilutive securities noted above, as of December 31, 2019, the Company has 688,349 shares held in escrow in connection with the Eureka acquisition. As of December 31, 2018, the Company had 4,105,988 shares of stock in an escrow account which transferred to members of Blackjack upon the closing of the transaction (See Note 4).

 

Note 16 — Segment Reporting

 

The Company operates in two segments: the production and sale of cannabis via retail and wholesale channels (“Cannabis Operations”); and providing professional services including cultivation, processing and retail know-how and back office

 

37

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

administration, intellectual property licensing, real estate leasing services and lending facilities to medical and adult-use cannabis licensees under management service agreements (“Non-Cannabis Operations”).

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Cannabis
    	
 
    	
Non-Cannabis
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
For the year   ended December 31, 2019:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Revenues
    	
 
    	
$
    	
173,857
    	
 
    	
$
    	
47,161
    	
 
    	
$
    	
221,018
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
94,452
    	
 
    	
47,161
    	
 
    	
141,613
    	
 
    
	
Loss from   operations
    	
 
    	
(6,348
    	
)
    	
(21,370
    	
)
    	
(27,717
    	
)
    
	
Net loss
    	
 
    	
(19,649
    	
)
    	
(50,198
    	
)
    	
(69,848
    	
)
    
											

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Cannabis
    	
 
    	
Non-Cannabis
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
For the year   ended December 31, 2018:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Revenues
    	
 
    	
$
    	
55,661
    	
 
    	
21,396
    	
 
    	
$
    	
77,057
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
24,891
    	
 
    	
21,396
    	
 
    	
46,287
    	
 
    
	
Income (loss)   from operations
    	
 
    	
(25,156
    	
)
    	
(3,525
    	
)
    	
(28,681
    	
)
    
	
Net loss
    	
 
    	
(29,820
    	
)
    	
(32,057
    	
)
    	
(61,877
    	
)
    
										

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Cannabis
    	
 
    	
Non-Cannabis
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
As of   December 31, 2019:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Total assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
465,169
    	
 
    	
$
    	
271,757
    	
 
    	
$
    	
736,926
    	
 
    
	
Total   liabilities
    	
 
    	
93,785
    	
 
    	
239,695
    	
 
    	
333,480
    	
 
    
											

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Cannabis
    	
 
    	
Non-Cannabis
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
As of   December 31, 2018:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Total assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
88,524
    	
 
    	
$
    	
481,312
    	
 
    	
$
    	
569,836
    	
 
    
	
Total   liabilities
    	
 
    	
12,307
    	
 
    	
121,887
    	
 
    	
134,194
    	
 
    
											

 

Note 17 — Commitments and contingencies

 

Leases

 

The Company leases its facilities under operating leases that provide for the payment of real estate taxes and other operating costs in addition to normal rent.

 

38

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

At December 31, 2019, approximate future minimum payments due under non-cancelable operating leases were as follows:

 

	
Period
    	
 
    	
Scheduled payments
    	
 
    
	
2020
    	
 
    	
17,381
    	
 
    
	
2021
    	
 
    	
16,377
    	
 
    
	
2022
    	
 
    	
17,250
    	
 
    
	
2023
    	
 
    	
16,126
    	
 
    
	
2024 and   thereafter
    	
 
    	
62,320
    	
 
    
	
Total   undiscounted lease liability
    	
 
    	
129,454
    	
 
    
	
Impact of   discount
    	
 
    	
(36,300
    	
)
    
	
Lease liability   at December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
93,154
    	
 
    
	
Less current   portion of lease liability
    	
 
    	
(11,835
    	
)
    
	
Long-term   portion of lease liability
    	
 
    	
$
    	
81,319
    	
 
    
					

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of commitments at December 31, 2018 to the Company’s lease liability as of January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019:

 

	
Disclosed commitments   as of December 31, 2018
    	
 
    	
$
    	
58,666
    	
 
    
	
Impact of   discount
    	
 
    	
(15,824
    	
)
    
	
Lease liability   at January 1, 2019
    	
 
    	
42,842
    	
 
    
	
Lease payments
    	
 
    	
(11,348
    	
)
    
	
Amortization of   discount
    	
 
    	
6,216
    	
 
    
	
New leases   acquired
    	
 
    	
55,444
    	
 
    
	
Lease liability   at December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
$
    	
93,154
    	
 
    

 

Real estate leases typically extend for a period of 1—10 years. Some leases for office space include extension options exercisable up to one year before the end of the cancellable lease term. Typically, the option to renew the lease is for an additional period of 5 years after the end of the initial contract term and are at the option of the Company as the lessee.  Lease payments are in substance fixed, and certain real estate leases include annual escalation clauses with reference to an index or contractual rate.

 

The Company leases machinery and equipment but does not purchase or guarantee the value of leased assets. The Company considers these assets to be of low-value or short-term in nature and therefore no right-of use assets and lease liabilities are recognized for these leases. Expenses recognized relating to short-term leases and leases of low value during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 were immaterial.

 

The Company leases space for its offices, cultivation centers, and retail dispensaries. Key movements relating to the right-of-use lease asset balances are presented below:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Scheduled Payments
    	
 
    
	
Carrying amount,   January 1, 2019
    	
 
    	
$
    	
41,853
    	
 
    
	
Additions to   leased assets
    	
 
    	
51,211
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation   charges
    	
 
    	
(10,270
    	
)
    
	
Carrying amount,   December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
$
    	
82,794
    	
 
    

 

39

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

The total interest expense on lease liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $6,357.

 

The total cash outflow for lease liability payments for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $11,073.

 

Indemnification agreements

 

In the ordinary course of business, the Company may provide indemnification of varying scope and terms to vendors, lessors, business partners, and other parties with respect to certain matters including, but not limited to, losses arising out of breach of such agreements or from intellectual property infringement claims made by third parties. In addition, the Company has entered into indemnification agreements with members of its board of directors and senior management team that will require the Company, among other things, to indemnify them against certain liabilities that may arise by reason of their status or service as directors or officers. The maximum potential amount of future payments the Company could be required to make under these indemnification agreements is, in many cases, unlimited. To date, the Company has not incurred any material costs as a result of such indemnification agreements. The Company does not believe that the outcome of any claims under indemnification arrangements will have a material effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows, and it has not accrued any liabilities related to such obligations in its consolidated financial statements.

 

Legal

 

The Company is involved in claims or lawsuits that arise in the ordinary course of business. Accruals for claims or lawsuits are provided to the extent that losses are deemed both probable and estimable. Although the ultimate outcome of these claims or lawsuits cannot be ascertained, on the basis of present information and advice received from counsel, it is management’s opinion that the disposition or ultimate determination of such claims or lawsuits will not have a material adverse effect on the Company.

 

Among other legal disputes, the Company is currently involved in the following proceedings:

 

Connecticut Arbitration.  Pursuant to the Second Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of Doubling Road Holdings, LLC, the holders of a majority of the Series A-2 Units of Doubling Road Holdings had the right to require that PalliaTech or any Affiliate purchase all of the Series A-2 Units in exchange for shares of PalliaTech, Inc. (now Curaleaf, Inc.), the parent of PalliaTech, pursuant to a defined “Buy-Out Exchange Ratio.”  On October 25, 2018, the Holders, Curaleaf, and others entered into a Stipulation of Settlement in order to resolve a dispute with respect to the applicable Buy-Out Exchange Ratio for the Put Right.  The Stipulation of Settlement provided, among other things, that PalliaTech CT purchased the Holders’ interests in exchange for (1) a payment of $40,142; (2) 4,755,548 SVS; and (3) the potential for additional equity in Curaleaf depending on the results of a “Settlement Second Appraisal.”  Pursuant to the Settlement Second Appraisal, dated December 12, 2019, and the terms of the Stipulation of Settlement, the Holders received 2,016,859 additional SVS.  On January 23, 2020, the Holders filed new claims in arbitration including for fraudulent inducement and breach of contract, relating primarily to a lock-up agreement that the Holders signed in connection with the Stipulation of Settlement.

 

Florida Arbitration / Litigation.  On December 10, 2018, Jayson Weisz and SRC Medical Partners, LLC initiated an arbitration against PalliaTech Florida LLC.  On March 19, 2019, Weisz and SRC derivatively on behalf of PalliaTech Florida LLC filed a complaint against Defendants Curaleaf Florida LLC, PalliaTech Florida, Inc., Joseph Lusardi, and Boris Jordan in the Complex Business Litigation Section in the Circuit Court of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit in and for Miami-Dade County, Florida. Plaintiffs’ derivative Complaint seeks the judicial dissolution of Curaleaf Florida LLC and asserts various causes of action against Defendants, including for breach of contract, civil conspiracy, breach of fiduciary duty, fraudulent transfer, and a declaratory judgment appointing Robins to the Board of Managers.  On January 10, 2020, Weisz, JRF Group, and the Curaleaf entities entered into a Stipulation of Settlement pursuant to which the Company purchased JRF Group’s interest in PalliaTech Florida LLC for consideration of 1,772,062 SVS and $2,500 in cash.  During 

 

40

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

February, 2020, SRC, PalliaTech Florida LLC, PalliaTech Florida, Inc., and Lusardi participated in a final arbitration hearing. The parties are currently exchanging post-hearing briefs.

 

Securities Class Action.  On August 5, 2019, a purported class action was filed against Curaleaf, Joseph Lusardi, Neil Davidson, and Jonathan Faucher in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York on behalf of persons or entities who purchased or otherwise acquired publicly traded securities of the Company from November 21, 2018 to July 22, 2019.  On January 6, 2020, an Amended Class Action Complaint was filed against Defendants.  The Amended Class Action Complaint alleges that Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements regarding Curaleaf’s CBD products based on a July 22, 2019 letter received from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA Letter”).  According to the Amended Class Action Complaint, the FDA Letter states that several of the CBD products sold on Curaleaf’s website were “misbranded drugs” in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.  The Amended Class Action Complaint asserts claims (1) against all Defendants for alleged violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and (2) against Lusardi, Davidson, and Faucher for alleged violations of Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  On March 6, 2020, the Defendants filed a motion to dismiss arguing that the Amended Class Action Complaint failed to allege (1) any false or misleading statement or omission, (2) scienter, (3) any domestic transactions, or (4) control person liability.

 

Taxes

 

The Company files tax returns as prescribed by the tax laws of the jurisdictions in which it operates. In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by federal and state jurisdictions, where applicable. The U.S. parent company is currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) for the years ending December 31, 2016 through December 31, 2018.  The IRS has proposed adjustments relating the U.S. parent company’s treatment of expenses under Section 280E, however, as of December 31, 2019, there has been no resolution to any adjustments. Although the Company currently believes all its tax positions can be sustained, the ultimate resolution of tax matters could have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.   The Company’s tax years are still open under statute from December 31, 2016, to the present.

 

Note 18 — Related party transaction

 

The Company incurred the following transactions with related parties during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018.

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year Ended December 31,
    	
 
    	
Year Ended December 31,
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Transaction
    	
 
    	
Related Party Transactions
    	
 
    	
Balance Receivable (Payable)
    	
 
    
	
Senior Unsecured   Note - 2019 (1)
    	
 
    	
$
    	
237
    	
 
    	
$
    	
237
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(1,666
    	
)
    
	
Consulting Fees (1)
    	
 
    	
319
    	
 
    	
201
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Deal Fees (1)
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,800
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Travel and   Reimbursement (1)
    	
 
    	
816
    	
 
    	
1,052
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Rent expense (1)
    	
 
    	
238
    	
 
    	
91
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Contingent   Liability (2)
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(18,000
    	
)
    	
(18,000
    	
)
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,610
    	
 
    	
$
    	
3,381
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(18,000
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(19,666
    	
)
    

 

(1) Interest, debt related, general and administrative fees due to a director in common.

(2) Contingent consideration liability for the purchase of CLMA.

 

41

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Note 19 — Fair value measurements

 

The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents, notes receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses, long-term debt and redeemable non-controlling contingency. The fair values of cash, restricted cash, notes receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate their carrying values due to the relatively short-term to maturity. The Company’s long-term notes payable carrying value at the effective interest rate approximates fair value.

 

Financial instruments recorded at fair value are classified using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs to fair value measurements. The three levels of hierarchy are:

 

Level 1 — Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

 

Level 2 — Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and

 

Level 3 — Inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data.

 

The Company’s assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include investments, long-lived assets, indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. The Company reviews the carrying amounts of such assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable or at least annually as of December 31, for indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. Any resulting asset impairment would require that the asset be recorded at its fair value. The resulting fair value measurements of the assets are considered to be Level 3 measurements.

 

There have been no transfers between fair value levels during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018.

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Fair Value Measurements
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
as of December 31, 2019 Using:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Level 1
    	
 
    	
Level 2
    	
 
    	
Level 3
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
Assets:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Biological   assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
19,197
    	
 
    	
$
    	
19,197
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
19,197
    	
 
    	
$
    	
19,197
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Liabilities:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Non-controlling   interest redemption and contingent consideration liabilities
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
35,310
    	
 
    	
$
    	
35,310
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
35,310
    	
 
    	
$
    	
35,310
    	
 
    

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Fair Value Measurements
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
as of December 31, 2018 Using:
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Level 1
    	
 
    	
Level 2
    	
 
    	
Level 3
    	
 
    	
Total
    	
 
    
	
Assets:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Biological   assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,491
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,491
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,491
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,491
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Liabilities:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Non-controlling   interest redemption and contingent consideration liabilities
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
20,957
    	
 
    	
$
    	
20,957
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
20,957
    	
 
    	
$
    	
20,957
    	
 
    

 

42

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

Biological assets

 

The fair value of biological assets is categorized within Level 3 on the fair value hierarchy. The Company measures its biological assets at fair value less costs to sell. This is determined using a model which estimates the expected harvest yield in grams for plants that are actively growing, and then adjusts that amount for the expected selling price per gram in the market in which the biological asset is growing. The estimates used in determining the fair value of biological assets are subject to volatility and several uncontrollable factors, which could significantly affect the fair value of biological assets in future periods. The significant assumptions used in determining the fair value of biological assets include:

 

·                  Expected yield by plant — represents the expected number of grams of finished cannabis inventory which are expected to be obtained from each harvested cannabis plant;

 

·                  Wastage of plants — represents the weighted average percentage of biological assets which are expected to fail to mature into cannabis plants that can be harvested;

 

·                  Duration of the production cycle — represents the weighted average number of weeks out of the 12 week growing cycle that biological assets have reached as of the measurement date;

 

·                  Percentage of costs incurred as of this date compared to the total costs expected to be incurred — this is calculated as the cost per gram of harvested cannabis to complete the sale of cannabis plants post harvest, consisting of the cost of direct and indirect materials and labor related to further production, labeling, and packaging;

 

·                  Percentage of costs incurred for each stage of plant growth — represents the direct and indirect production costs incurred that are capitalized; and

 

·                  Market values — this is calculated as the current market price per gram in the market in which the biological asset is being produced. This is expected to approximate future selling price.

 

The Company accretes fair value on a straight line basis according to stage of growth. As a result, a cannabis plant that is 50% through its 12 week growing cycle would be ascribed approximately 50% of its harvest date expected fair value. All plants are to be harvested cannabis and as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, on average, were 49% and 59% complete, respectively. An increase or decrease in the estimated sale price would result in a significant change in the fair value of biological assets.

 

Non-controlling interest contingency and buyout

 

During 2018 the Company agreed to acquire the remaining non-controlling interest in Costa Nursery Farms, LLC, d/b/a Modern Health Concepts (“MHC”) and Double Road Holdings, LLC (“DRH”), therefore voiding the non-controlling interest put options and the non-controlling interest purchased call options from the original agreements. The MHC acquisition consideration was for $25,000 in cash as well as common stock and the DRH acquisition consideration was for $40,142 in cash as well as common stock. Upon each acquisition, the Company reversed the non-controlling interest contingency liabilities.

 

The non-controlling interest in MHC of $12,000 was calculated using the fair value method of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The value used in this determination was the purchase price for the controlling interest. The Company used the fair value method as it believes that the risks and rewards of the acquired entity are shared by the Company and the non-controlling interest. The MHC Agreement contained a put option under which the non-controlling interest could require the Company to redeem its equity interest in MHC. The redemption value was to be determined by mutual 

 

43

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

agreement or by an independent valuation expert subject to certain parameters that include a “floor” amount of $12,000 and a “ceiling” amount equal to 75% of the excess of the fair market value over $40,000 times the percentage interest held by the non-controlling interest (30% at the acquisition date). The Company had a call option under which it may require the non-controlling interest to sell under the same terms. As a result of the transactions described above there was no direct non-controlling interest in MHC as of December 31, 2018.

 

PT Florida is owned 77.2% by the Company and 22.8% by third parties (the “Remaining Florida Minority Holders”). The Remaining Florida Minority Holders, through their 22.8% non-controlling interest in PT Florida, indirectly held a 15.9% non-controlling interest in MHC as of December 31, 2019. In January 2020, half of the Remaining Minority Holders agreed to sell their 11.4% equity in PT Florida for consideration of $4,159 cash and 1,772,062 SVS, valued at $10,000. In addition, in connection with this transaction, the Company paid the selling Remaining Minority Holders  $1,651 cash to retire principal and interest on the half of the Secured Promissory Notes — 2029 held by the selling Remaining Minority Holder. (See Note 10).

 

In October 2018, the Company agreed to acquire from the minority members of DRH (the “DRH Minority Members”) their remaining 49% membership interests in DRH (the “DRH Minority Membership Units”) in consideration for $40,142 in cash (the “Connecticut Minority Buy-Out”) and $41,747 which was settled through the issuance of 4,755,548 SVS. This transaction closed immediately following completion of the Business Combination discussed in Note 3. The number of SVS to be paid to the DRH Minority Members for the DRH Minority Membership Units may be adjusted based upon an independent valuation to be conducted following the completion of the Business Combination. The valuation will first establish the value of DRH as a percentage of the value of Curaleaf Inc. as at March 8, 2018 (the “Exchange Ratio”), and then convert the Exchange Ratio into a percentage of the fully diluted equity as of the date of the Business Combination, not taking into account shares to be issued in connection with the Private Placement (the “Diluted Share Count”). Upon completion of this valuation, the number of additional SVS to be issued to DRH Minority Members shall be determined based on a prescribed formula, provided that the aggregate number of SVS issued to the DRH Minority Holders shall not exceed an additional 1.96% of the Diluted Share Count representing 8,962,380 SVS. In February 2020, the Company issued 2,016,858 SVS to the former minority members of DRH as a result of the second independent valuation.

 

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018 the Company recognized a non-controlling interest buyout liability in the amount of $16,174 and $2,957, respectively, with the offset being recognized in redeemable non-controlling interest buyout as contra equity.  An increase or decrease in the weighted average cost of capital (“WACC”) would result in a significant change in the fair value of the non-controlling interest contingency.

 

Financial Risk Management

 

The Company is exposed in varying degrees to a variety of financial instrument related risks. The Company’s risk exposures and the impact on the Company’s financial instruments are summarized below:

 

Credit Risk

 

Credit risk is the risk of a potential loss to the Company if a customer or third party to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. The maximum credit exposure at December 31, 2019 and 2018 is the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and notes receivable. The Company does not have significant credit risk with respect to its customers. All cash and cash equivalents are placed with major U.S. financial institutions.

 

The Company provides credit to its customers, mostly wholesale and MSA customers, in the normal course of business and has established credit evaluation and monitoring processes to mitigate credit risk.

 

As of December 31, 2019, future loan receivable receipts were as follows:

 

44

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

	
Year Ending December 31, 
    	
 
    	
Amount
    	
 
    
	
2020
    	
 
    	
$
    	
729
    	
 
    
	
2021
    	
 
    	
56,437
    	
 
    
	
2022
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
2023
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
2024 and   thereafter
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
57,166
    	
 
    

 

Liquidity Risk

 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations associated with financial liabilities. The Company manages liquidity risk through the management of its capital structure. The Company’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure that it will have sufficient liquidity to settle obligations and liabilities when due.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. Cash and cash equivalents bear interest at market rates. The Company’s notes receivable and financial debts have fixed rates of interest and therefore expose the Company to interest rate fair value risk.

 

Capital Management

 

The Company’s objectives when managing capital are to ensure that there are adequate capital resources to safeguard the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern and maintain adequate levels of funding to support its ongoing operations and development such that it can continue to provide returns to shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders.

 

The capital structure of the Company consists of items included in shareholders’ equity and debt, net of cash and cash equivalents. The Company manages its capital structure and makes adjustments to it in light of changes in economic conditions and the risk characteristics of the Company’s underlying assets. The Company plans to use existing funds, as well as funds from the future sale of products to fund operations and expansion activities. As of December 31, 2019, the Company was not subject to externally imposed capital requirements.

 

Note 20 — Subsequent events

 

The Company has evaluated subsequent events through March 26, 2020, the date the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued.

 

In January 2020, the Company closed on a Senior Secured Term Loan Facility (“Facility”) from a syndicate of lenders totaling $300,000. The notes bear interest at a rate of 13.0% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears with a maturity on December 2023. The Company satisfied its obligations in full under the Financing Agreement — 2021 in connection with, and out of the proceeds of the Facility (see Note 10).

 

See Note 19 for information regarding acquisitions of certain minority interests that were signed after December 31, 2019.

 

See Note 17 for information regarding developments in certain legal proceedings that occurred after December 31, 2019.

 

45

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(in thousands, except for gram, share and per share amounts)

 

See Note 4 for information regarding acquisitions that were signed after December 31, 2019.

 

46Exhibit 4.3

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019 and 2018

 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 

This management discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) of the financial condition and results of operations of Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (the “Company” or “Curaleaf”) is for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 prepared as of March 26, 2020. It is supplemental to, and should be read in conjunction with, the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018. For the purposes of this MD&A, the terms “Company” and “Curaleaf” mean Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. and, unless the context otherwise requires, includes its subsidiaries. Additional information regarding Curaleaf is available on the Company’s website at www.curaleaf.com or through the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. The Company’s financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and Interpretations of the IFRS Interpretations Committee (“IFRIC”) in effect as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019.  Financial information presented in this MD&A is presented in United States (“U.S.”) dollars (“$” or “US$”), unless otherwise indicated.

 

This MD&A has been prepared by reference to the MD&A disclosure requirements established under National Instrument 51-102 — Continuous Disclosure Obligations of the Canadian Securities Administrators and Staff Notice 51-352 (Revised) — Issuers with US Marijuana Related Activities (“Staff Notice 51-352”).

 

This MD&A contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and United States securities laws (“forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based on management’s current beliefs, expectations or assumptions regarding the future of the business, future plans and strategies, operational results and other future conditions of the Company. In addition, the Company may make or approve certain statements in future filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities, in press releases, or in oral or written presentations by representatives of the Company that are not statements of historical fact and may also constitute forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, made by the Company that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements preceded by, followed by or that include words such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “believes”, “estimates”, “projects”, “potential”, “expects”, “plans”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “targeted”, “continues”, “forecasts”, “designed”, “goal”, or the negative of those words or other similar or comparable words and includes, among others, information regarding: expectations for the effects of any transactions; expectations for the effects and potential benefits of any transactions; expectations for the effects of COVID-19 on the business’ operations and financial condition; statements relating to the business and future activities of, and developments related to, the Company after the date of this MD&A, including such things as future business strategy, competitive strengths, goals, expansion and growth of the Company’s business, operations and plans; expectations that planned acquisitions will be completed; expectations that licenses applied for will be obtained; potential future legalization of adult-use and/or medical cannabis under U.S. federal law; expectations of market size and growth in the U.S. and the states in which the Company operates; expectations for other economic, business, regulatory and/or competitive factors related to the Company or the cannabis industry generally; the ability for U.S. holders of securities of the Company to sell them on the Canadian Securities Exchange (“CSE”); and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. Forward-looking statements may relate to future financial conditions, results of operations, plans, objectives, performance or business developments. These statements speak only as of and at the date they are made and are based on information currently available and on the then current expectations. Holders of securities of the Company are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but instead are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time they were provided or made and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, as applicable, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, risks and uncertainties related to: business structure risks; legal and regulatory risks inherent in the cannabis industry; financing risks related to additional financing and restricted access to banking; general regulatory and legal risks including risk of civil asset forfeiture; risks relating to anti-money laundering laws and regulations; lack of access to U.S. bankruptcy protections, heightened scrutiny by regulatory authorities; risk of legal, regulatory or political change, general regulatory and licensing risks, limitations on ownership of licenses, regulatory action and approvals from the

 

1

 

Food and Drug Administration and risks of litigation; environmental risks including environmental regulation and unknown environmental risks; general business risks including risks related to COVID-19 pandemic, failure to complete acquisitions; risks related to the senior secured debt facility, unproven business strategy, service providers, enforceability of contracts, resale of the SVS on the CSE; reliance on the expertise and judgment of senior management of the Company, and ability to retain such senior management; the concentrated voting control of the Company’s Executive Chairman, Boris Jordan, risks inherent in an agricultural business; unfavorable publicity or consumer perception, product liability, product recalls, results of future clinical research, difficulty attracting and retaining personnel, dependence on suppliers, reliance on inputs, limited market data and difficulty to forecast, intellectual property risks, constraints on marketing products, fraudulent or illegal activity by employees, contractors and consultants, information technology systems and cyber-attacks, security breaches, reliance on management services agreements with subsidiaries and affiliates, website accessibility, high bonding and insurance coverage, risks of leverage, future acquisitions or dispositions; , management of growth, performance not indicative of future results and financial projections may prove materially inaccurate or incorrect, conflict of interest; tax risks as well as those risk factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in this MD&A and under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated September 23, 2019.

 

The discussion of risk factors in this MD&A has been updated to include discussion of risks related to the current pandemic caused by the spread of the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”).   The nature and scope of the pandemic and its impact are rapidly developing  and it is difficult for management to identify at the current time all risks, or quantify those identified, or to assess their impact on particular financial measures and operating results.  Nevertheless, discussion under “Risk Factors” identifies potential areas of negative potential impact that may be caused by the pandemic.

 

The purpose of forward-looking statements is to provide the reader with a description of management’s expectations, and such forward-looking statements may not be appropriate for any other purpose. In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, disclosure in this MD&A as well as statements regarding the Company’s objectives, plans and goals, including future operating results and economic performance may make reference to or involve forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Certain of the forward-looking statements and other information contained herein concerning the cannabis industry, its medical, adult-use and hemp-based CBD markets, and the general expectations of the Company concerning the industry and the Company’s business and operations are based on estimates prepared by the Company using data from publicly available governmental sources as well as from market research and industry analysis and on assumptions based on data and knowledge of this industry which the Company believes to be reasonable. However, although generally indicative of relative market positions, market shares and performance characteristics, such data is inherently imprecise. While the Company is not aware of any misstatement regarding any industry or government data presented herein, the cannabis industry involves risks and uncertainties that are subject to change based on various factors.

 

A number of factors could cause actual events, performance or results to differ materially from what is projected in the forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained in this MD&A. Such forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this MD&A. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. The Company’s forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

 

This MD&A contains future-oriented financial information and financial outlook information (collectively, “FOFI”) about the Company’s prospective results of operations, production and production efficiency, commercialization, revenue and cash on hand, all of which are subject to the same assumptions, risk factors, limitations, and qualifications as set forth in the above paragraph. FOFI contained in this MD&A was approved by management as of the date of this MD&A and was provided for the purpose of providing further information about the Company’s future business operations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any FOFI contained in this MD&A, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required pursuant to applicable law. Readers are cautioned that the FOFI contained in this MD&A should not be used for purposes other than for which it is disclosed herein.

 

2

 

OVERVIEW OF THE COMPANY

 

Curaleaf operates as a life science company developing full scale cannabis operations, with core competencies in cultivation, manufacturing, dispensing and medical cannabis research.  Curaleaf is a leading vertically integrated medical and wellness cannabis operator in the United States. Headquartered in Wakefield, Massachusetts, the Company has operations in fourteen states and, as of December 31, 2019, operates fifty-one dispensaries, fourteen cultivation sites and fifteen processing sites with a focus on highly populated, limited license states, including New York, New Jersey, Florida and Massachusetts. The Company leverages its extensive research and development capabilities to distribute cannabis products with the highest standard for safety, effectiveness, consistent quality and customer care. The Company is committed to leading the industry in education and advancement through research and advocacy. The Company markets to medical and adult-use customers through brand strategies intended to build trust and loyalty.

 

The Company was one of the first professionally managed companies to enter the U.S. legal cannabis industry, which is one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. and still in its early stages of maturity. Formed in 2010, the Company began as a medical device company, and was the first to develop and patent a medical cannabis vaporizing unit capable of delivering single metered doses of cannabis medicine to patients.

 

Presently, the Company is a diversified holding company dedicated to delivering market-leading products and services while building trusted national brands within the legal cannabis industry. Through its team of physicians, pharmacists, medical experts and industry innovators, the Company has developed a portfolio of branded cannabis-based therapeutic offerings in multiple formats and a strategic network of branded retail dispensaries. Exemplifying its commitment to quality, Curaleaf’s Florida operations were the first in the cannabis industry to receive the Safe Quality Food certification under the Global Food Safety Initiative, setting a new standard of excellence.

 

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc., formerly known as Lead Ventures, Inc. (“LVI”), was incorporated under the laws of British Columbia, Canada on November 13, 2014. The Company changed its name to “Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.” as part of the business combination described below under the heading “Reverse Takeover Transaction and Private Placement”.

 

The Company’s Subordinated Voting Shares (“SVS”) are listed for trading on the CSE under the ticker symbol “CURA” and on the OTCQX under the ticker symbol “CURLF”.

 

In order to achieve its strategy, the Company has completed several acquisitions since its formation.  The Company expects to continue to actively pursue other acquisition, disposition and investment opportunities in the future.

 

The consolidated financial statements of the Company include the financial statements of the Company and its direct subsidiaries, indirect subsidiaries that are not wholly owned by the Company and other entities consolidated other than on the basis of ownership:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
State of
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Business name
    	
 
    	
operations
    	
 
    	
ownership %
    	
 
    	
ownership %
    	
 
    
	
CLF   AZ, Inc.
    	
 
    	
AZ
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
CLF   NY, Inc.
    	
 
    	
NY
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   CA, Inc.
    	
 
    	
CA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   KY, Inc.
    	
 
    	
KY
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   Massachusetts, Inc.
    	
 
    	
MA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf MD, LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   OGT, Inc.
    	
 
    	
OH
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf PA, LLC
    	
 
    	
PA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf, Inc.
    	
 
    	
MA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
Focused   Investment Partners, LLC
    	
 
    	
MA
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech   Maine, Inc.
    	
 
    	
ME
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech RI,   LLC
    	
 
    	
RI
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech CT,   Inc.
    	
 
    	
CT
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech OR,   LLC (formerly Groen)
    	
 
    	
OR
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech   Florida, Inc.
    	
 
    	
FL
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
100
    	
%
    
	
PalliaTech   Florida, LLC
    	
 
    	
FL
    	
 
    	
77.2
    	
%
    	
75
    	
%
    
	
Curaleaf   Florida, LLC
    	
 
    	
FL
    	
 
    	
70
    	
%
    	
70
    	
%
    
	
CLF MD   Processing, LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
85
    	
%
    
	
PT   Nevada, Inc.
    	
 
    	
NV
    	
 
    	
100
    	
%
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
HMS Health LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
HMS Processing   LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
HMS Sales LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
MI Health LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Town Center   Wellness, LLC
    	
 
    	
MD
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    

 

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Reverse Takeover Transaction and Private Placement

 

On July 25, 2018, Curaleaf, Inc. entered into an agreement (“Transaction Agreement”) with LVI which resulted in a reverse takeover of LVI by the security holders of Curaleaf, Inc. and the listing for trading of the SVS of the issuer resulting from the reverse takeover, Curaleaf Holdings, Inc., on the CSE. Pursuant to the Transaction Agreement, the shareholders of LVI received, upon completion of the reverse takeover, SVS having an aggregate value of C$2,160.

 

On October 25, 2018, Curaleaf, Inc. and the Company completed the combination of their respective businesses (the “Business Combination”) pursuant to the Transaction Agreement and an Agreement and Plan of Transaction among Curaleaf, Inc., the Company (then known as Lead Ventures, Inc.) and Curaleaf Mergerco, Inc. The Business Combination was structured as a series of transactions, including a Canadian three-cornered amalgamation transaction and a series of U.S. merger and reorganization steps.

 

Immediately prior to the Business Combination, 1177687 B.C. Ltd. (“Curaleaf FinCo”), a special purpose corporation, completed a brokered and a non-brokered subscription receipt private placement financing at a price of C$11.45 per subscription receipt for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately C$520,000 (the “Private Placement”).

 

As part of the Business Combination, the Company, Curaleaf FinCo and 1177679 B.C. Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, were parties to a three-cornered amalgamation (the “Amalgamation”) pursuant to which the shareholders of Curaleaf FinCo (being the investors in the Private Placement after automatic conversion of their subscription receipts into common shares of Curaleaf FinCo (the “Curaleaf FinCo Shares”) received SVS of the Company in exchange for their Curaleaf FinCo Shares. Concurrently with the Amalgamation, Curaleaf MergerCo Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, merged with and into Curaleaf, Inc., with Curaleaf, Inc. continuing as the surviving corporation and becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.

 

In connection with the Business Combination, Gociter Holdings Ltd., a corporation of which Boris Jordan, the Executive Chairman of Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. is the beneficial owner, made a contribution of 3,734,965 common shares to the Company in exchange for 122,170,705 multiple voting shares (“MVS”) of Curaleaf Holdings, Inc., representing 100% of the issued and outstanding MVS as of closing of the Business Combination.

 

Company Performance and Objectives

 

The Company is currently active in numerous cannabis programs across the U.S. In the U.S., thirty-three states have legalized the use of medical cannabis for patients with certain qualifying conditions. In most of these medical states, a regulatory framework is in place whereby patients can receive a recommendation from a certified physician to purchase medical cannabis in approved dispensaries. In the U.S., eleven states have legalized cannabis for adult-use (“adult-use”). In many of these adult-use states, customers can purchase cannabis from approved dispensaries by providing identification proving the customer is 21 years of age or older.

 

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A key aspect of the Company’s business plan is achieving “vertical integration” in each cannabis program in which it operates. Vertical integration means controlling the entire supply chain: from cultivating cannabis, to processing the cannabis into oils and other formulated products and, ultimately, selling the end-product to customers and/or patients.

 

The Company plans to continue growth of its operations via expansion in three dimensions: acquiring licenses in limited-license markets, increasing presence in current markets, and increasing exposure in mass markets. While the Company’s goal is to have its own licensed operations in each of its markets, we may enter a market through production and/or marketing arrangements where such arrangements provide opportunity for accelerated roll-out.

 

Limited-License Markets. The majority of the markets in which the Company currently operates have formal regulations limiting the number of cannabis licenses that will be awarded, thus forming high barriers to entry, limited market participants, and protected market share in these limited-license states. Curaleaf intends to apply for new licenses or acquire businesses within limited-license markets in which the Company does not currently operate.

 

Increasing Presence in Current Markets. The Company plans to grow within its current markets by pursuing opportunities for vertical integration, acquiring additional dispensary licenses and/or entering into production and marketing relationships to further build its retail brand and expand its retail footprint, and intends to apply for new licenses as available and determined by each state.

 

Increasing Exposure in Mass Markets. The Company has established itself as a market leader and has become a dominant player due to its competitive pricing, experienced management, strong capitalization and strong brand goodwill. In mass markets exhibiting a free market dynamic typical of other industries, such as California, Nevada, and Oregon, the Company intends to leverage its extensive experience to grow cannabis and/or process more efficiently and reliably, while taking advantage of wholesale and retail opportunities and establishing a strong brand.

 

The Company expects acquisition related costs, marketing and selling expenses, and capital expenditures to increase as it expands its presence in current markets and expands into new markets.

 

Operating Segments

 

The Company currently operates in two segments:

 

Cannabis Operations

 

The Company engages in the production and sale of cannabis via retail and wholesale channels. The Company operates 51 retail dispensaries in nine states. The Company operates 14 cultivation sites in 11 states and 15 processing sites in 12 states which sell cannabis through wholesale channels.

 

Non-Cannabis Operations

 

The Company provides professional services including cultivation, processing and retail know-how and back office administration, intellectual property licensing, real estate leasing services and lending facilities to medical and adult-use cannabis licensees under management service agreements. The Company manages three integrated medical cannabis licenses; one license in New Jersey and two licenses in Maine under such management agreements. The financial results of these entities are not included into the consolidated financial statements of the Company because the Company does not have control over these operations in accordance with IFRS 10.

 

The States We Operate In, Their Legal Framework and How It Affects Our Business

 

Arizona Operations

 

Arizona’s medical cannabis program was introduced in November 2010 when voters approved the Proposition 203 “Arizona Medical Marijuana Initiative” ballot measure that legalized medical cannabis for patients with certain qualifying conditions. The first sales were made to patients in December 2012.

 

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The Arizona Department of Health Services has allocated 130 medical cannabis dispensary certificates. Each dispensary certificate permits the license holder to open one dispensary and gives the license holder the option to open one cultivation facility and/or one processing facility. Cultivation and processing sites can be located anywhere in the state and are not restricted based on where the license holder’s dispensary is located. Dispensaries are limited to their district for their first three years of operation. All dispensaries must be not-for-profit. Extracted oils, edibles, and flower products are permitted. Wholesale transactions are permitted. In June 2018, an Arizona appeals court ruled that extracted cannabis oils such as vaporizer cartridges were illegal. These products have been available in Arizona dispensaries since the launch of the program, and our dispensaries, as with most others in the state, have continued to sell extracted oils pending a final ruling by the Arizona Supreme Court. In January 2019, the Arizona Supreme Court agreed to review the legality of medical marijuana extracts such as vaporizer cartridges. In May 2019, the Arizona Supreme Court unanimously ruled that medical marijuana extracts are legal, meaning dispensaries can continue to sell oil-based formulations such as vaporizer cartridges.

 

In April 2018, the Company acquired Swell Farmacy, a holding company that operated four licensed dispensaries through Master Service Agreements (“MSAs”). The dispensaries are located in the Phoenix area, which boasts 122,000 of the state’s 189,000 patients. In May 2018, the Company entered into a 10-year lease to operate a 100,000 square foot indoor cultivation facility, 50,000 square feet of which is already constructed for cultivation on a 68-acre plot of land with the prospect of further expansion, including greenhouse and outdoor grows. In November 2018, the Company acquired Midtown Roots, a holding company operating the only dispensary located in downtown Phoenix. In May 2019, the Company acquired the exclusive rights to operate the Emerald dispensary, the only dispensary in the town of Gilbert, which is located in the Metro Phoenix area. In June 2019, the Company announced two separate acquisitions, Glendale Greenhouse, a vertically integrated cannabis business operating a cultivation and processing facility, as well as a dispensary, and Phytotherapeutics Management Services, LLC, which operates a dispensary that was subsequently moved to a newly developed, flagship dispensary located at 2175 N 83rd Avenue, which has close access to the I-10 Freeway. The Company may acquire additional dispensaries in this market, which is one of the biggest programs in the U.S.

 

California Operations

 

California’s medical cannabis program was introduced in 1996 when voters passed the Proposition 215 ballot initiative, that allowed patients with a valid doctor’s recommendation to possess and cultivate cannabis for personal medical use. In October 2015, Governor Brown signed the Medical Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act into law, which provided a regulatory framework around the longstanding, though unregulated, medical cannabis industry. In November 2016, voters approved Proposition 64, the Adult Use of Marijuana Act, with 57% of the vote, legalizing adult-use cannabis in the state. Dispensaries began selling to customers 21 years of age and older in January 2018.

 

The Medicinal and Recreational Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act creates the general framework for the regulation of commercial medicinal and adult-use cannabis in California. Three state agencies are responsible for licensing and regulating each aspect of the industry: the Bureau of Cannabis Control regulates retailers, distributors, testing labs, microbusinesses, and temporary cannabis events; the Manufactured Cannabis Safety Branch, a division of the California Department of Public Health, regulates manufacturers of cannabis-infused edibles for both medical and nonmedical use; and the California Department of Food and Agriculture regulates cultivators of medicinal and adult-use cannabis.

 

Permitted products include oil-based formulations, edibles, and flower. Wholesaling and home delivery are permitted.

 

In December 2018, the Company received a manufacturing, distribution, and mobile dispensing license from the City of Davis, California. In January 2019, the Company received its California state licenses for manufacturing and distribution. In April 2019, the Company acquired Eureka, a Monterey County, California, based operator with a cultivation facility in the Salinas Valley. In February 2020, the Company closed the acquisition of Cura Partners, Inc., a leading wholesale brand in California, among other states, with a processing facility in Sacramento, CA.

 

Connecticut Operations

 

Connecticut’s medical cannabis program was introduced in May 2012 when the General Assembly passed legislation PA 12-55 ‘An Act Concerning the Palliative Use of Marijuana.’ The program is divided into two classes of licenses: producers

 

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and dispensaries. Producers cultivate and process medicinal cannabis and wholesale to dispensaries. Dispensaries sell cannabis directly to patients and must have a pharmacist on staff.

 

The program launched with six dispensary licensees and four producer licensees. The first dispensaries sold to patients in September 2014.

 

In January 2016, the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (“CTDCP”), the agency that oversees the program, approved three additional dispensary licenses. In December 2018, the CTDCP issued nine additional dispensary licenses, bringing the total to 18 licensed dispensaries in the state. As of February 2019, 17 of these dispensaries were operational.

 

Extracted oils and flower products are permitted. Edibles are permitted with the exception of confectionaries.

 

Curaleaf holds one of the four approved producer licenses in the state. The Company began wholesaling in October 2014 and now sells to all 14 of the state’s operational dispensaries. Curaleaf previously operated a 40,000 square foot facility but has recently moved to a new 55,000 square foot facility which includes cultivation space, extraction, purification facilities, and a commercial kitchen for the production of edibles.

 

The Company expects to acquire GR Companies, Inc., a cannabis multi-state operator in Connecticut, among other states, with one dispensary in Connecticut. The Company also expects to close its acquisition of three Connecticut dispensaries currently operated the Arrow Alternative Care name upon regulatory approval. See “Proposed Transactions” section of this MD&A.

 

Florida Operations

 

Florida’s medical cannabis program was introduced in June 2014 when the Florida Legislature passed the Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act of 2014 (“CMCA”). The CMCA permitted low-THC cannabis oils to be dispensed and purchased by patients suffering from cancer and epilepsy. Under this program, six organizations called Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (“MMTCs”) were licensed to dispense low-THC cannabis to patients.

 

In November 2016, Florida voters approved the Amendment 2 “Expand Medical Marijuana” ballot measure with 71% of the vote. This constitutional amendment expanded the program by legalizing cannabis oils for individuals with specific debilitating diseases or conditions, including chronic pain, as determined by a licensed state physician. In June 2018, Governor Scott signed Senate Bill 8-A: “Medical Use of Marijuana,” which outlined how patients can qualify and receive medical cannabis under the state’s constitutional amendment. The bill also increased the number of available MMTC licenses to 17, with 14 of these licenses issued as of the end of 2018. In April 2019, as the result of a joint settlement, the state awarded additional licenses, and as of the date hereof a total of 22 licenses have been granted in the state.

 

A single MMTC license allows for the cultivation, processing, and dispensing of cannabis products. Originally, each MMTC was permitted to open up to 25 dispensaries statewide. With each additional 100,000 qualified patients, the dispensary cap increased by five for each MMTC. However, the limit on dispensaries will no longer apply after April 2020.

 

Permitted products originally included oil-based formulations. Rules permitting the sale of edible medical cannabis products are under development. In May 2018, a district court judge ruled that Florida’s medical cannabis constitutional amendment requires the Department of Health to permit sales of smokable medical cannabis flower. Smokable flower was introduced as a permitted form factor in March 2019, shortly after Governor DeSantis signed a bill that repealed the state’s ban on smokable medical cannabis flower.

 

Each MMTC is required to cultivate and process all medical cannabis products they dispense. Wholesale transactions are permitted on a case by case basis to alleviate shortages. Home delivery is permitted.

 

The Company holds one of the original six vertically-integrated medical cannabis licenses issued in the state. In October 2016, Curaleaf’s Florida business became the third license holder to begin sales to patients. As of December 31, 2019,

 

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Curaleaf operated a 24,000 square foot indoor growing facility, a 278,000 square foot greenhouse growing facility, and 28 dispensaries, with plans to open additional dispensaries in 2020.

 

Maine Operations

 

Maine’s medical cannabis program was introduced in November 1999 when voters approved Question 2, the ‘Maine Medical Marijuana for Specific Illnesses Initiative,’ with 61% of the vote. This program permitted qualified patients, or their designated caregiver, to grow and consume cannabis, but did not create a licensing structure whereby entities could apply to cultivate, process, and/or dispense cannabis.

 

In November 2009, Maine voters expanded the medical program by passing Question 5, the ‘Maine Medical Marijuana Initiative, with 59% of the vote, which established a licensing structure in which eight vertically-integrated, not-for-profit dispensaries could sell cannabis directly to registered patients. The first dispensary opened to patients in October 2010. Medical dispensaries are vertically-integrated and cultivate, process, and dispense products to patients. Wholesaling is only permitted in emergency situations. Extracted oils, edibles, and flower products are permitted.

 

In November 2016, Maine voters approved Question 1, the ‘Maine Marijuana Legalization Measure,’ which legalized adult-use cannabis sales in the state. In May 2018, the Maine legislature overrode a veto by Governor LePage to formally approve the cannabis legalization legislation that lays the groundwork for the adult-use market. The law passed in May 2018 establishes separate classes of licenses (dispensaries, cultivators, processors) with no caps in place on the number of licenses that can be issued. In February 2019, the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, which oversees both the medical and adult-use programs, selected a consultant to write the rules and regulations for the adult-use program. Draft rules were released in April 2019, finalized and signed by the Governor in June 2019. The Office of Marijuana Policy is now accepting and processing adult-use applications and have issued 31 conditional adult-use licenses to date with the expectation the first adult-use stores will open in June 2020.

 

Each licensee is permitted to open one dispensary. In July 2018, the Maine legislature overrode yet another veto by Governor LePage to formally approve a sweeping medical marijuana reform bill that regulates caregiver operations and approves the issuance of six new dispensary licenses. The bill also removes the requirement that medical cannabis license holders operate as not-for-profit entities, paving the way for the conversion of existing license holders to for-profit corporations. This bill went into effect in December 2018, though rules around the issuance of new medical licenses are still under development. As of December 31, 2019, there were still eight vertically-integrated, not-for-profit medical dispensaries in Maine.

 

The Company provides management services to two of the eight integrated medical cannabis licensees in the state: Maine Organic Therapy (“MEOT”) and Remedy Compassion Center (“RCC”). MEOT operates a 30,000 square foot indoor grow facility and a dispensary. RCC operates a small grow facility and a dispensary and obtains most of its product wholesale via MEOT. MEOT and RCC have both been serving patients since 2010.

 

Maryland Operations

 

Maryland’s medical cannabis program was introduced in May 2013 when then Governor O’Malley signed House Bill 1101 into law. The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission issued preliminary licenses to 102 dispensaries, 15 cultivators, and 15 processors in 2016. The first dispensaries opened to patients in December 2018.

 

The market is divided into three classes of licenses: dispensaries, cultivators, and processors. Wholesaling occurs between cultivators and processors, cultivators and dispensaries, and processors and dispensaries. Originally, no one company could directly control multiple licenses of the same class, but this restriction was changed in May 2019 when Governor Hogan signed a bill that permitted a single company to own up to four dispensaries. Dispensary locations are tied to the Senate District in which they were awarded, with the exception of dispensary licenses that were awarded to applicants who also were awarded a cultivation license — these dispensaries can be located at the discretion of the license holder. Permitted products include oil-based formulations and flower. Edibles are prohibited.

 

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In April 2018, the Maryland House and Senate approved a bill, which was later signed by Governor Hogan, that expanded the license pool, adding seven additional cultivation licenses, for a total of 22, and 13 additional processing licenses, for a total of 28. As of December 31, 2019, there were approximately 89 operational dispensaries, 17 operational cultivators, and 18 operational processors.

 

Curaleaf received one of 102 preliminary medical cannabis dispensary licenses in December 2016. The Company launched its dispensary in the first quarter of 2018, shortly after the market launched in December 2017. The Company also acquired a company holding a cannabis processing license, which began operations in the first quarter of 2018.

 

In January 2019, the Company completed a convertible debt financing with the owners of the HMS/MI Businesses which consist of one cultivation, one processing, and two dispensaries. Concurrently with completion of the convertible debt financing, the Company entered into supply, offtake, branding and services agreements with the HMS/MI Businesses.  Conversion of the debt into the equity of the HMS/MI Businesses is expected, subject to regulatory approval, when the licenses become subject to transfer under current law, starting in August 2020. The Company also announced in January 2019 that it had entered into an option purchase agreement to purchase all of Town Center Wellness, LLC, subject to regulatory approval, which operates the Elevate Takoma dispensary located in Takoma Park, Maryland.

 

In May 2019, Maryland passed legislation allowing for the sale of edibles in the market, and the Company has constructed a processing and manufacturing facility at Curaleaf’s Frederick facility in anticipation of the implementation of these rules.

 

In February 2020, the Company closed the acquisition of Cura Partners, Inc., a recently-launched wholesale brand in Maryland, among other states.

 

The Company expects to acquire GR Companies, Inc., a cannabis multi-state operator in Maryland, among other states, which owns a cultivation and processing facility and a dispensary and has the right to acquire any additional dispensary in Maryland. See “Proposed Transactions” section of this MD&A.

 

Massachusetts Operations

 

Massachusetts’ medical cannabis program was established by “An Act for the Humanitarian Medical Use of Marijuana” in November 2012 when voters passed Ballot Question 3 “Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Initiative” with 63% of the vote. The first dispensary opened in June 2015.

 

In November 2016, Massachusetts voters legalized adult-use cannabis by passing ballot Question 4 — Legalize Marijuana with 54% of the vote. In July 2018, Governor Baker signed legislation that laid the groundwork for the adult-use market. In March 2018, the Cannabis Control Commission (the “CCC”), the regulatory body, was set up to regulate the adult-use market and approve the rules that will govern the industry. While the CCC original aimed to officially launch adult-use sales on July 1, 2018, issues such as a lack of licensed testing labs and disagreements with city and town officials over agreements with cannabis businesses slowed the rollout, and the first adult-use sale did not take place until November 2018.

 

The Department of Health originally oversaw the medical cannabis program, but in December 2018 transferred oversight to the CCC, a change which was mandated by the aforementioned July 2018 legislation. Each medical licensee must be vertically-integrated and may have up to three medical dispensaries. Licensed medical dispensaries are given priority in adult-use licensing. As of December 31, 2019, there were 33 adult-use dispensaries open across the state.

 

The CCC oversees the adult-use cannabis program. Adult-use cultivators are grouped into 11 tiers of production—ranging from up to 5,000 square feet to no larger than 100,000 square feet — and regulators will bump a licensee down to a lower tier if that licensee has not shown an ability to sell at least 70 percent of what it produces. Medical dispensaries that wish to add the ability to sell cannabis products to non-patients will be required to reserve 35 percent of their inventory or the six-month average of their medical cannabis sales for medical cannabis patients. In order to achieve an adult-use license, a prospective licensee must first sign a “Host Community Agreement” with the town in which it wishes to locate. Roughly two-thirds of municipalities in the state have a ban or a moratorium in place that prohibits cannabis businesses from operating within their jurisdiction.

 

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In both the medical and adult-use markets, extracted oils, edibles, and flower products are permitted. Wholesaling is also permitted.

 

The Company holds an integrated medical cannabis license and operates a 54,000 square foot indoor grow and three dispensaries, one licensed for medical and adult-use sales in Oxford, one licensed for medical sales in Hanover, and one licensed for adult-use sales in Provincetown. In March 2020, a fourth dispensary opened in Ware for adult-use sales. In February 2019, Curaleaf exercised an option to purchase an adjacent unit in its cultivation facility, thereby expanding its cultivation facility to 104,000 square feet.

 

The Company expects to acquire Alternative Therapies Group (“ATG”), another licensed medical cannabis operator in Massachusetts, which operates a 53,000 square foot cultivation facility and processing facility. See “Proposed Transactions” section of this MD&A.

 

On August 9, 2019, the Company announced that it had been granted approval by the CCC for the Company’s Reverse Takeover transaction, which the CCC deemed a change of ownership and control.

 

Nevada Operations

 

Nevada’s medical cannabis program was introduced in June 2013 when the legislature passed SB374, legalizing the medicinal use of cannabis for certified patients. The first dispensaries opened to patients in August 2015.

 

In November 2016, Nevada voters approved Question 2 with 55% of the vote, legalizing adult-use cannabis in the state. Adult-use sales launched under an “early-start” program on July 1, 2018. This market is divided into five classes of licenses: dispensaries, cultivators, distribution, product manufacturing, and testing. Licenses are tied to the locality in which they were awarded. In December 2018, the Nevada Department of Taxation, the agency which oversees the cannabis program, issued 61 new dispensary licenses. As of December 31, 2019, there were approximately 66 operational dispensaries, 134 operational cultivators, and 96 operational processors.

 

Extracted oils, edibles, and flower products are permitted. Wholesaling is permitted.

 

In 2018, the Company agreed to acquire a 10,000 square foot licensed indoor cannabis cultivation and a licensed dispensary, operating in Las Vegas, Nevada. Both businesses are licensed for both medical and adult-use sales. Each of these transactions is subject to regulatory approval. In March 2019, the Company agreed to acquire Acres, a company with a 269,000 square foot operating cultivation facility and further expansion as needed on 37 acres of land in Amargosa Valley, Nevada, and a large dispensary located in the Las Vegas, Nevada. The transaction consisted of two stages, with the Company closing the acquisition of the cultivation and processing assets of Acres in October 2019. The Acres businesses financial results were consolidated as of November 2019 in conjunction with completion of the cultivation and processing component of the transaction.  The acquisition of the Acres dispensaries and processing facility closed in January 2020.

 

In February 2020, the Company closed the acquisition of Cura Partners, Inc., a leading wholesale brand in Nevada, among other states.

 

New Jersey Operations

 

New Jersey’s medical cannabis program was introduced in January 2010 when then Governor Corzine signed the New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act (“NJCUMMA”) into law. The NJCUMMA legalized medical cannabis for patients with certain qualifying conditions. The first sales were made to patients in December 2012.

 

In March 2018, under the direction of Governor Murphy, who campaigned on a platform that included cannabis legalization, the New Jersey Department of Health (“NJDOH”) issued the Executive Order 6 Report, which immediately expanded the medical cannabis program in numerous ways, including adding chronic pain and anxiety as qualifying conditions, doubling the monthly product limit, and permitting current licensees to open satellite dispensaries. In August 2018, the NJDOH began accepting applications for the licensing of six additional Alternative Treatment Centers (“ATCs”).

 

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These licenses were awarded in December 2018, and as of December 31, 2019, there were seven operational ATCs dispensing medical cannabis to patients. In December 2019, the New Jersey state legislature passed a bill to add an initiative to the November 2020 ballot that will allow voters to decide whether to legalize the sale of adult-use cannabis in the state.

 

A single ATC license allows for the cultivation, processing, and dispensing of medical cannabis products. Originally, each ATC was permitted to open one dispensary, located within the same facility in which the ATC cultivated and processed. With the Executive Order 6 Report, each ATC can now open two additional satellite dispensaries within their NJDOH- designated region for a total of three dispensaries each, as well as satellite production facilities. Wholesaling is permitted with approval from the NJDOH.

 

Extracted oils and flower products are permitted. The Executive Order 6 Report recommended adding edibles as a permitted product, with rulemaking for edibles the responsibility of the state legislature. As of March 31, 2019, the legislature has yet to develop rules for edibles, and a timeline for edibles rulemaking is yet to be determined.

 

Originally, ATCs were required to be non-profit entities. However, pursuant to the “Jake Honig Compassionate Use Medical Cannabis Act”, signed into law on July 2, 2019, ATCs are permitted to sell or transfer their license to a for-profit entity, pending NJDOH approval.

 

The Company manages Curaleaf NJ, Inc. (“Curaleaf NJ”), an unrelated not-for-profit entity, with an integrated medical cannabis license, under an MSA. Curaleaf NJ owns a property that includes 46,890 square feet of cultivation space. Curaleaf NJ also owns an adjacent 12,000 foot facility, of which 4,000 square feet is utilized for dispensary operations, with the remainder used for ancillary operations such as packaging and storage. Since the start of sales in October 2015, Curaleaf NJ has established itself as a market leader, dispensing 36% of all product sold in the state in 2018. In accordance with the recently adopted regulations described above, Curaleaf NJ plans to open two more dispensary locations in the state, as well as an additional cultivation facility, for which the Company has secured a 128,500 square foot facility in the township of Winslow, NJ.

 

New York Operations

 

New York’s medical cannabis program was introduced in July 2014 when Governor Cuomo signed the Compassionate Care Act, which legalized cannabis oils for patients with certain qualifying conditions. Under this program, five organizations, called Registered Organizations (each, a “RO”s) were licensed to dispense cannabis oil to patients, with the first sale to a patient completed in January 2016.

 

In December 2016, the New York State Department of Health (“NYSDOH”) added chronic pain as a qualifying condition. In the month-and-a-half following the addition of chronic pain, the number of registered patients increased by 18%. In August 2018, the NYSDOH granted licenses to five additional ROs. A single RO license allows for the cultivation, processing, and dispensing of medical cannabis products. Each RO is permitted to open four dispensaries in NYSDOH- designated regions throughout the state. Each RO is permitted to open one cultivation/processing facility. Each RO is required to cultivate and process all medical cannabis products they dispense; however, wholesale transactions are permitted with approval from the state.

 

In November 2018, Governor Cuomo signed a bill to add post-traumatic stress disorder as a qualifying condition. In July 2018, the NYSDOH added opioid replacement as a qualifying condition, meaning any condition for which an opioid could be prescribed is now a qualifying condition for medical cannabis. In August 2018, Governor Cuomo, prompted by a NYSDOH study which concluded the “positive effects” of cannabis legalization “outweigh the potential negative impacts,” appointed a group to draft a bill for regulating legal adult-use cannabis sales in New York. During the 2019 state legislative session, Governor Cuomo proposed adult-use legalization in his budget proposal, though the legislature failed to include legalization in the final budget, and also failed to pass a legalization bill during the session. In January 2020, Governor Cuomo again included cannabis legalization in his budget proposal, a proposal which, as of February 2020, is still being considered by the legislature.

 

11

 

Permitted products include oil-based formulations (vaporizer cartridges, tinctures, capsules), and ground-flower sold in tamper-proof vessels. Home delivery is also permitted.

 

The Company was awarded a vertically-integrated license in May 2018 with the right to open four dispensaries. The Company is only one of ten license holders in the state. Curaleaf currently operates four dispensaries located in Newburgh, Plattsburgh, Queens, and Nassau County, as well as a 72,000 square foot cultivation and manufacturing facility in Ravena, New York.

 

Ohio Operations

 

Ohio’s medical cannabis program was introduced in June 2016 when House Bill 523 was signed into law. In November 2018, the state issued 12 ‘Level I’ cultivation licenses, which permit up to 25,000 square feet of canopy, and 12 ‘Level II’ cultivation licenses, which permit up to 3,000 square feet of canopy. In June 2018, the state issued 56 dispensary licenses. In August 2018, the state issued seven processing licenses, and over the next few months issued seven additional processing licenses. In January 2019, the state issued an additional 26 processing licenses for a total of 40 across the state. Due to controversies around the scoring of cultivation applications and ensuing appeals, there are currently 16 ‘Level I’ cultivation licenses and 13 ‘Level II’ cultivation licenses. The first dispensaries opened in January 2019.

 

The Ohio Department of Commerce is responsible for regulating cultivators and processors. The Ohio State Board of Pharmacy is responsible for regulating dispensaries and the patient and caregiver registry. The Ohio State Medical Board is responsible for certifying physicians and reviewing petitions to add qualifying medical conditions.

 

Extracted oils, edibles, and non-combustible flower products are permitted.

 

The Company was awarded a preliminary processing license in Amelia, Ohio in early 2019. The Company no longer plans to develop this license due to the dissolution of the Village of Amelia and the absorption of the licensed processor site into a town that does not permit cannabis activities. In May 2019, the Company entered into an agreement granting it an option to acquire OGT, a holder of one of the 16 Level 1 cultivation licenses and a processing license. OGT is currently building out a 32,000 square foot production facility in Johnstown, Ohio, which is expected to be completed in the first half of 2020.

 

The Company expects to acquire GR Companies, Inc., a cannabis multi-state operator in Ohio, among other states, with one cultivation facility, one processing facility and two dispensaries in Ohio. See “Proposed Transactions” section of this MD&A.

 

Oregon Operations

 

Oregon’s medical cannabis program was introduced in November 1998 when voters approved Measure 67, the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act.

 

In November 2014, voters approved Measure 91, the ‘Oregon Legalized Marijuana Initiative’, which legalized adult-use cannabis in the state. In October 2015, the first adult-use dispensaries opened.

 

The market is divided into six classes of licenses: dispensaries, cultivators, wholesalers, processors, laboratories and research. To date the market has had a more relaxed licensing structure which has led to an oversupply of product. In 2018, Oregon cultivators grew three times the amount of cannabis that could legally be consumed in the market. In response to a report highlighting the issues in Oregon, the U.S. Attorney for Oregon, Billy Williams, said, “The recent HIDTA Insight Report on marijuana production, distribution, and consumption in Oregon confirms what we already know—it is out of control.”

 

In June 2018, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission, which regulates the adult-use program, announced they would not process any new adult-use license applications in order to work through the backlog that has developed as the result of 3,432 applications being submitted as of May 2018. In July 2018, the Oregon Health Authority, which regulates the medical program, conceded in a report that it has not provided effective oversight of growers and others in the industry.

 

12

 

Extracted oils, edibles, and flower products are permitted.

 

The Company holds a producer license and a processing license for adult-use and operates a 20,000 square foot outdoor cultivation center and an adjacent 17,000 square foot indoor facility for indoor growing and large-scale CO2 extraction and manufacturing. In July 2018, the Company acquired a dispensary, which launched operations in Portland, Oregon at the end of 2018.

 

In February 2020, the Company completed the acquisition of Cura Partners, Inc., owners of the leading Select wholesale brand in Oregon, among other states, with a processing facility in Portland, Oregon.

 

Pennsylvania Operations

 

Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis program was introduced in April 2016 when Governor Wolf signed into law SB 3 “Medical Marijuana Act”, which legalized medical cannabis oils for patients with certain qualifying conditions. The law also called for a class of licenses, called “clinical registrant” licenses, whereby accredited medical institutions in the state can partner with medical cannabis companies to conduct research. There are two primary classes of licenses: licenses to grow/process cannabis products, and licenses to dispense cannabis products to patients. Grower/processors wholesale products to dispensaries. In June 2018, the Pennsylvania Department of Health (“PADOH”) awarded licenses to 12 grower/processors as well as 27 dispensary licensees. Each dispensary license permits the licensee to open up to three dispensaries in the region in which the license was awarded. In February 2018, the first dispensaries opened to patients.

 

In May 2018, a Commonwealth Court judge halted the PADOH’s planned “clinical registrant” program whereby up to eight Pennsylvania medical schools would partner with licensed medical cannabis organizations to conduct research. In June 2018, Governor Wolf signed a bill to re-implement the clinical registrant program. Regulations for this program are in development. In June 2018, the PADOH awarded licenses to an additional 13 grower/processors. In December 2018, the PADOH awarded an additional 23 dispensary licenses.

 

Originally, only oil-based formulations were permitted. In April 2018, the PADOH approved flower as a permitted medical cannabis product offering, and dispensaries began to offer flower to patients in August 2018.

 

The Company has partnered with an accredited medical school to obtain a “Clinical Registrant” license in Pennsylvania. In February 2020, the Company was approved as a Clinical Registrant in Pennsylvania by the Commonwealth’s Department of Health, Office of Medical Marijuana. Under this designation, the Company is entitled to open a cultivation and processing facility and up to six dispensaries, under the Commonwealth’s medical marijuana research program. Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis program has created this class of license to promote cooperation between industry and academia in the research of medical benefits of cannabis. To support its presence in Pennsylvania, the Company has leased a 49,200 square foot production facility in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.

 

The Company expects to acquire GR Companies, Inc., a cannabis multi-state operator in Illinois, Pennsylvania and Ohio among other states. See “Proposed Transactions” section of this MD&A.

 

Utah Operations

 

Utah’s medical cannabis program was introduced in November 2018, when 53% of voters approved “Proposition 2, Medical Marijuana Initiative”. In December 2018, the state legislature passed a bill that legalized medical cannabis, but implemented several changes to the Proposition 2 ballot erasure, including removing home cultivation rights for patients and adding a requirement that dispensaries employ pharmacists.

 

The market is divided into three main classes of licenses: cultivation, processing, and retail. In July 2019, the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (“UDAF”) awarded eight cultivation licenses. In January 2020, the Utah Department of Health awarded 14 retail licenses. The UDAF has been issuing processing licenses on a rolling basis throughout early 2020. All medical cannabis form factors are permitted, as is wholesaling. The market is expected to begin sales in 2020.

 

13

 

In January 2020, the Company was awarded a medical cannabis retail license from the Utah Department of Health. The Company plans to open a dispensary in Lindon, Utah for medical patients by the end of 2020, pending final approvals from regulators. Also in January 2020, the Company announced that it received preliminary approval for a processing license by the UDAF. The notice grants Curaleaf permission to begin the build out of its processing facility, and the Company expects to complete the build out by the end of 2020.

 

Components of Our Results of Operations

 

Revenue

 

Retail and Wholesale Revenue

 

The Company derives its retail and wholesale revenue in states in which it is licensed to cultivate, process, distribute, and sell cannabis. The Company sells directly to customers at its retail stores and sells wholesale to other dispensaries or processors not owned by the Company. For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, our wholesale revenue represented approximately 20% and 32% of total retail and wholesale revenue, respectively.

 

Management Fee Income

 

Management fee income represents revenue related to management services agreements pursuant to which the Company provides professional services, including cultivation, processing and retail know-how and back office administration, intellectual property licensing, real estate leasing services and lending facilities to medical and adult-use cannabis licensees. The Company recognizes revenue from these consulting services on a straight-line basis over the term of third-party consulting agreements as services are provided.

 

Cost of Goods Sold

 

Cost of goods sold are derived from costs related to the cultivation and production of cannabis and from wholesale purchases made from other licensed producers operating within state markets in which the Company operates. Cost of goods sold includes the costs directly attributable to the production of inventory and includes amounts incurred in the cultivation and manufacture of finished goods, such as flower, concentrates, and edibles.  Direct and indirect costs include but are not limited to material, labor, supplies, depreciation expense on production equipment, utilities, and facilities costs associated with cultivation.

 

Change in Fair Value of Biological Assets

 

Plants that are actively growing are considered biological assets. In accordance with IAS 41 — Agriculture, biological assets are recorded at fair value at the time of harvest, less costs to sell, which are transferred to inventory. The amount transferred becomes the carrying value of the inventory on a go-forward basis. When the inventory is sold, the fair value is relieved from inventory and the amount is expensed to the cost of goods sold. The cost of goods sold also includes the product cost and costs related to products acquired from other suppliers.

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit is revenue less cost of goods sold. During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 the Company did not operate at full capacity and the Company expects gross profit to increase over the foreseeable future as it continues to invest in its current operations.

 

Operating Expenses

 

Salaries and benefits include non-cost-of-goods sold labor for each retail location and corporate labor expenses. The Company expects salaries and benefits to increase proportionally with store openings in the foreseeable future, but these expenses are expected to level off as operations are scaled in each market.

 

14

 

Sales and marketing expenses consist of selling costs to support the Company’s retail stores including branding and marketing expenses and product development expenses. The Company expects selling costs to increase proportionally with each retail store opening.

 

Professional fees consist of accounting, legal and acquisition related expenses. The Company expects these fees to increase as expansion continues and subsequent acquisitions occur.

 

Other general and administrative expenses consist of travel, general office supplies and monthly services, facilities and occupancy, insurance, director fees and new business development expenses.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Interest income

 

The Company has notes receivable with various parties that earn interest income at rates ranging from 8% to 18%.

 

Interest expense

 

Interest expense consists of interest on outstanding borrowings under various promissory note agreements as well as amortization of debt discounts.

 

Other income (expense)

 

Other expense consists of costs related to the restructuring of the Curaleaf Hemp brand and loss on the termination of the Agua Street purchase agreement, offset by the gains and losses on the disposal of assets.

 

Income taxes

 

The Company files tax returns as prescribed by the tax laws of the jurisdictions in which it operates. In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by federal and state jurisdictions, where applicable.

 

As the Company operates in the legal cannabis industry, the Company is subject to Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code (“IRC”) which prohibits businesses engaged in the trafficking of controlled substances (within the meaning of Schedule I and II of the CSA) from deducting normal business expenses associated with the sale of cannabis, such as payroll and rent, from gross income (revenue less cost of goods sold). Section 280E, therefore, has a significant impact on the retail side of cannabis, but a lesser impact on cultivation and manufacturing operations.  Section 280E was originally intended to penalize criminal market operators, but because cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance for U.S. Federal purposes, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has subsequently applied Section 280E to state-legal cannabis businesses. The effective tax rate on a cannabis business depends on how large its ratio of non-deductible expenses is to its total revenues.  In the states that the Company operates in that align their tax codes with Section 280E, it is also unable to deduct normal business expenses for state tax purposes. This results in permanent differences between ordinary and necessary business expenses deemed non-allowable and a higher effective tax rate than most industries.  Cannabis businesses operating in states that align their tax codes with the IRC are also unable to deduct normal business expenses for state tax purposes.

 

SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

The Company reports results of operations of its affiliates from the date that control commences. Control exists when the Company has the power, directly and indirectly, to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity and is exposed to the variable returns from its activities. The following selected financial information includes only the results of operations after the Company established control of its affiliates. Accordingly, the information included below may not be representative of the results of operations if such affiliates had included their results of operations for the entire reporting period.

 

15

 

The following table sets forth selected financial information for the periods indicated that was derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and the respective accompanying notes prepared in accordance with IFRS. See “Results of Operations for the Years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018” for additional details. The selected consolidated financial information set out below may not be indicative of Curaleaf’s future performance:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year Ended December 31,
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
2017
    	
 
    
	
Revenue
    	
 
    	
$
    	
221,018
    	
 
    	
$
    	
77,057
    	
 
    	
$
    	
19,313
    	
 
    
	
Cost of goods   sold
    	
 
    	
102,386
    	
 
    	
31,172
    	
 
    	
7,840
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of biological assets
    	
 
    	
118,632
    	
 
    	
45,885
    	
 
    	
11,473
    	
 
    
	
Net change in   fair value of biological assets
    	
 
    	
22,981
    	
 
    	
402
    	
 
    	
4,124
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
141,613
    	
 
    	
46,287
    	
 
    	
15,597
    	
 
    
	
Operating   expenses
    	
 
    	
169,330
    	
 
    	
74,968
    	
 
    	
22,142
    	
 
    
	
Other income,   net
    	
 
    	
(18,072
    	
)
    	
(27,553
    	
)
    	
2,569
    	
 
    
	
Net loss and   comprehensive loss
    	
 
    	
(69,848
    	
)
    	
(61,877
    	
)
    	
(5,044
    	
)
    
	
Loss per share   attributable to Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. - basic and diluted
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(0.15
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.14
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.01
    	
)
    

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
December 31,
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
2017
    	
 
    
	
Total assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
736,926
    	
 
    	
$
    	
569,836
    	
 
    	
$
    	
151,602
    	
 
    
	
Long-term debt
    	
 
    	
87,953
    	
 
    	
81,901
    	
 
    	
10,194
    	
 
    
											

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019 AND 2018

 

The following table summarizes our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
$ Change
    	
 
    	
% Change
    	
 
    
	
Revenues:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Retail and   wholesale revenue
    	
 
    	
$
    	
173,857
    	
 
    	
$
    	
57,538
    	
 
    	
$
    	
116,319
    	
 
    	
202
    	
%
    
	
Management fee   income
    	
 
    	
47,161
    	
 
    	
19,519
    	
 
    	
27,642
    	
 
    	
142
    	
%
    
	
Total revenues
    	
 
    	
221,018
    	
 
    	
77,057
    	
 
    	
143,961
    	
 
    	
187
    	
%
    
	
Cost of goods   sold
    	
 
    	
102,386
    	
 
    	
31,172
    	
 
    	
71,214
    	
 
    	
228
    	
%
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of biological assets
    	
 
    	
118,632
    	
 
    	
45,885
    	
 
    	
72,747
    	
 
    	
159
    	
%
    
	
Realized fair   value amounts included in inventory sold
    	
 
    	
(74,757
    	
)
    	
(16,069
    	
)
    	
(58,688
    	
)
    	
365
    	
%
    
	
Unrealized fair   value gain on growth of biological assets
    	
 
    	
97,738
    	
 
    	
16,471
    	
 
    	
81,267
    	
 
    	
493
    	
%
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
141,613
    	
 
    	
46,287
    	
 
    	
95,326
    	
 
    	
206
    	
%
    
	
Operating   expenses
    	
 
    	
169,330
    	
 
    	
74,968
    	
 
    	
94,362
    	
 
    	
126
    	
%
    
	
Loss from   operations
    	
 
    	
(27,717
    	
)
    	
(28,681
    	
)
    	
964
    	
 
    	
(3
    	
)%
    
	
Other income   (expense), net
    	
 
    	
(18,072
    	
)
    	
(27,553
    	
)
    	
9,481
    	
 
    	
(34
    	
)%
    
	
Loss before provision   for income taxes
    	
 
    	
(45,789
    	
)
    	
(56,234
    	
)
    	
10,445
    	
 
    	
(19
    	
)%
    
	
Income tax   benefit (expense)
    	
 
    	
(24,059
    	
)
    	
(5,643
    	
)
    	
(18,416
    	
)
    	
326
    	
%
    
	
Net loss
    	
 
    	
(69,848
    	
)
    	
(61,877
    	
)
    	
(7,971
    	
)
    	
13
    	
%
    
	
Less: Net loss   attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest
    	
 
    	
(2,604
    	
)
    	
(5,410
    	
)
    	
2,806
    	
 
    	
(52
    	
)%
    
	
Net loss   attributable to Curaleaf, Holdings Inc.
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(67,244
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(56,467
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(10,777
    	
)
    	
19
    	
%
    

 

16

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Retail and   wholesale revenue
    	
 
    	
$
    	
173,857
    	
 
    	
$
    	
57,538
    	
 
    
	
Management fee   income
    	
 
    	
47,161
    	
 
    	
19,519
    	
 
    
	
Total revenues
    	
 
    	
221,018
    	
 
    	
77,057
    	
 
    
	
Cost of goods   sold
    	
 
    	
102,386
    	
 
    	
31,172
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of biological assets
    	
 
    	
118,632
    	
 
    	
45,885
    	
 
    
	
Realized fair   value amounts included in inventory sold
    	
 
    	
(74,757
    	
)
    	
(16,069
    	
)
    
	
Unrealized fair   value gain on growth of biological assets
    	
 
    	
97,738
    	
 
    	
16,471
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
$
    	
141,613
    	
 
    	
$
    	
46,287
    	
 
    
	
Gross margin
    	
 
    	
64
    	
%
    	
60
    	
%
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of management fee income and biological assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
71,471
    	
 
    	
$
    	
26,366
    	
 
    
	
Gross margin   before impact of management fee income and biological assets
    	
 
    	
41
    	
%
    	
46
    	
%
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of management fee income and after net gain on biological   assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
94,452
    	
 
    	
$
    	
26,768
    	
 
    
	
Gross margin   before impact of management fee income and after net gain on biological   assets
    	
 
    	
54
    	
%
    	
47
    	
%
    

 

Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2019 and 2018

 

As the 2017 financial results pre-date the completion of the Business Combination, they are not discussed below given the comparison with the 2018 and 2019 financial results would not be meaningful.

 

Revenue

 

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $221,018, an increase of $143,961 or 187% compared to revenue of $77,057 for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase in revenue was driven by an increase of $116,319 in retail and wholesale revenue and a $27,642 increase in management fee income.

 

Retail and wholesale revenue was $173,857 for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to $57,538 for the year ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $116,319 or 202%. The increase in retail and wholesale revenue was primarily due to organic growth and new store openings in in Florida, Massachusetts and New York, along with the acquisitions of three dispensaries in Arizona in 2019, and revenue from the HMS/MI Businesses and Elevate Takoma in Maryland. Additionally, wholesale revenue increased in Massachusetts as a result of the increased number of adult-use dispensaries.

 

The increase in management fee income of $27,642 is primarily due to the growth of Curaleaf NJ, the managed not-for-profit in New Jersey and management fees generated from ATG.

 

Cost of Goods Sold & Change in Fair Value of Biological Assets

 

Cost of goods sold, excluding any adjustments to the fair value of biological assets, for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $102,386, an increase of $71,214 or 228% compared to cost of goods sold for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase was primarily due to cultivation and processing costs directly related to the increase in cannabis revenue for the year ended December 31, 2019, which were the result of opening new dispensaries and acquisitions made in 2018.

 

Biological asset transformation for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $22,981, an increase of $22,579 or 5,617% compared to $402 for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase was primarily due to the increase number of cultivation facilities that generated initial harvests in 2019 and the corresponding increase in the unrealized fair value gain on the growth of biological assets offset by the amounts realized and included in cost of goods sold.

 

17

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $141,613, or 64%, compared to $46,287, or 60%, for the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

Gross profit before management fee income and biological asset adjustments for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $71,471 compared to $26,366 for the year ended December 31, 2018. Gross margin for the year ended December 31, 2019 was 41% compared to 46% for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The relative increase in gross profit was due to the continued improvement in the operating capacity of the Company’s cultivation and processing facilities, while gross margin declined due to certain of the Company’s facilities, namely California and Kentucky bringing on new capacity during the year.

 

Gross profit before management fee income and after net gains on biological assets for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $94,452 or 54%, compared to $26,768, or 47%, for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase was primarily due to higher operating capacity of the Company’s cultivation and processing facilities and the net gain on biological assets described above.

 

Total Operating Expenses

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
$Change
    	
 
    
	
Salaries and   benefits
    	
 
    	
$
    	
52,737
    	
 
    	
$
    	
27,773
    	
 
    	
$
    	
24,964
    	
 
    
	
Sales and   marketing
    	
 
    	
12,188
    	
 
    	
4,264
    	
 
    	
7,924
    	
 
    
	
Rent and   occupancy
    	
 
    	
4,613
    	
 
    	
7,944
    	
 
    	
(3,331
    	
)
    
	
Travel
    	
 
    	
6,574
    	
 
    	
3,131
    	
 
    	
3,443
    	
 
    
	
Professional   fees
    	
 
    	
30,550
    	
 
    	
12,564
    	
 
    	
17,986
    	
 
    
	
Office supplies   and services
    	
 
    	
8,290
    	
 
    	
4,662
    	
 
    	
3,628
    	
 
    
	
Other
    	
 
    	
6,070
    	
 
    	
4,974
    	
 
    	
1,096
    	
 
    
	
Total selling,   general, and administrative
    	
 
    	
121,022
    	
 
    	
65,312
    	
 
    	
55,710
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation and   amortization
    	
 
    	
31,701
    	
 
    	
7,427
    	
 
    	
24,274
    	
 
    
	
Share-based   compensation
    	
 
    	
16,607
    	
 
    	
2,229
    	
 
    	
14,378
    	
 
    
	
Total operating   expenses
    	
 
    	
$
    	
169,330
    	
 
    	
$
    	
74,968
    	
 
    	
$
    	
94,362
    	
 
    

 

Total operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2019 were $169,330, an increase of $94,362 or 126%, compared to $74,968 for the year ended December 31, 2018, which represents 77% and 97% of total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The increase in total operating expenses was primarily attributable to an increase in salaries and benefits, professional fees, as well as sales and marketing and other selling, general and administrative expenses as the Company expanded the number of retail dispensaries from 36 in 2018 to 51 in 2019, increased the level of support staff necessary to run the expanded operations as well as incurred $22,788 and $7,818 in one-time expenses during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, largely associated with acquisitions and business development activities.

 

Salaries and benefits were $52,737 for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to $27,773 for the year ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $24,964. This was due to an increase in headcount at the corporate level as well as headcount from expanding operations in markets from both organic growth in Florida, Massachusetts, New York, and both organic and acquired growth in Arizona.

 

Sales and marketing expenses totaled $12,188 for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to $4,264 for the year ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $7,924. The increase was largely due to marketing cost associated with marketing CBD products nationally and other branding, lobbying, and public relations costs at the corporate level as well as Florida and Arizona.

 

18

 

Occupancy expenses totaled $4,613 for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to rent and occupancy expenses of $7,944 for the year ended December 31, 2018. The decrease of $3,331 was primarily attributable to the adoption of IFRS 16 in 2019.

 

Travel expenses totaled $6,574 for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to $3,131 for the year ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $3,443. The increase was due to increased management travel associated with expanded operations.

 

Professional fees were $30,550 for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to $12,564 for the year ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $17,986. This increase was primarily due to increased legal and accounting fees associated with the expansion to new operating markets through organic growth and acquisitions, filing fees and cost associated with the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 (“HSR”) and costs associated with the integration of acquisitions.

 

Other selling, general and administrative expenses were $14,360 for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to $9,636 for the year ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $4,724. This increase was primarily due to increased expenditures in office supplies and monthly services such as computer and software, telecommunication, and bank and license fees at the corporate level, Florida, New York, and Arizona as well as increases in development of new products and business development activities.

 

Depreciation and amortization was $31,701 for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to $7,427 for the year ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $24,274. The increase was primarily due to the Company’s expansion of capital projects in Connecticut, New York, Florida, Massachusetts and Oregon as well as acquisition and operation of new businesses in Arizona, Nevada and Maryland. Additionally, the adoption of IFRS 16 in 2019 resulted in $10,270 in depreciation expense for the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

Share-based compensation was $16,607 for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to $2,229 for the year ended December 31, 2018 represented an increase of $14,378. The increase was primarily due to the share-based cost associated with options and restricted stock units granted in 2019.

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
$ Change
    	
 
    
	
Interest income
    	
 
    	
9,938
    	
 
    	
4,805
    	
 
    	
5,133
    	
 
    
	
Interest expense
    	
 
    	
(18,396
    	
)
    	
(7,309
    	
)
    	
(11,087
    	
)
    
	
Interest expense   related to lease liabilities
    	
 
    	
(6,357
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(6,357
    	
)
    
	
Other income   (expense)
    	
 
    	
(3,257
    	
)
    	
(25,049
    	
)
    	
21,792
    	
 
    
	
Total other   income (expense), net
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(18,072
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(27,553
    	
)
    	
$
    	
9,481
    	
 
    
											

 

Total other income, net for the year ended December 31, 2019 was a loss of $18,072 compared to loss of $27,553 for the year ended December 31, 2018. This is primarily due to the increase in interest expense related to the new debt borrowing entered into by the Company in August 2018, offset by the loss in change in fair value that was the result of the Business Combination, where the Swell Note converted into 3,715,038 SVS.  As a result, the Company determined that the fair value of the Swell Note increased to $32,716 and recorded a loss on the change in the fair value of the convertible note of $25,100. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company also recognized a loss of on the termination of the Agua Street purchase agreement of $1,319 and loss related to the Curaleaf Hemp brand of $2,323.

 

Interest income for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $9,938 and $4,805, respectively. The increase of $5,133 was due to an increase in the notes receivable outstanding balances during 2019.

 

Interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $18,396 and $7,309 respectively. The increase of $11,087 was due to new borrowings entered into by the Company towards the latter half of 2018.

 

19

 

Interest expense related to lease liabilities was $6,357 and was attributable to the adoption of IFRS 16 in 2019.

 

Provision for Income Taxes

 

The Company recorded total income tax expense of $24,059 for the year ended December 31, 2019 with $6,959 as the deferred tax component. The Company recorded total income tax expense of $5,643 for the year ended December 31, 2018 with $2,499 as the deferred tax component. The increase was the result of increased gross profit in certain of the Company’s subsidiaries that are subjected to Section 280E.

 

Net Loss

 

Net loss for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $69,848 and $61,877, respectively, which represents a decrease of $7,971, or 13%. The decrease was primarily driven by the increase in gross profit, partially offset by the loss on change in fair value of convertible note in September 2018.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019 AND 2018

 

The following table summarizes our results of operations for the three months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 and the three months ended September 30, 2019:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Three months ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘19
    	
 
    	
Q3 ‘19
    	
 
    	
Q4’19 vs Q3’19
    	
 
    	
Q4’19 vs Q3’19
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘18
    	
 
    	
Q4’19 vs Q4’18
    	
 
    	
Q4’19 vs Q4’18
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31,
    	
 
    	
September 30,
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31,
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
$ Change
    	
 
    	
% Change
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
$ Change
    	
 
    	
% Change
    	
 
    
	
Revenues:
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Retail and wholesale revenue
    	
 
    	
$
    	
57,681
    	
 
    	
$
    	
50,681
    	
 
    	
$
    	
7,000
    	
 
    	
14
    	
%
    	
$
    	
23,737
    	
 
    	
$
    	
33,944
    	
 
    	
143
    	
%
    
	
Management fee income
    	
 
    	
17,776
    	
 
    	
11,139
    	
 
    	
6,637
    	
 
    	
60
    	
%
    	
8,224
    	
 
    	
9,552
    	
 
    	
116
    	
%
    
	
Total revenues
    	
 
    	
75,457
    	
 
    	
61,820
    	
 
    	
13,637
    	
 
    	
22
    	
%
    	
31,961
    	
 
    	
43,496
    	
 
    	
136
    	
%
    
	
Cost of goods sold
    	
 
    	
35,695
    	
 
    	
27,079
    	
 
    	
8,616
    	
 
    	
32
    	
%
    	
11,980
    	
 
    	
23,715
    	
 
    	
198
    	
%
    
	
Gross profit before impact of biological assets
    	
 
    	
39,762
    	
 
    	
34,741
    	
 
    	
5,021
    	
 
    	
14
    	
%
    	
19,981
    	
 
    	
19,781
    	
 
    	
99
    	
%
    
	
Realized fair value amounts included in inventory sold
    	
 
    	
(33,920
    	
)
    	
(15,004
    	
)
    	
(18,916
    	
)
    	
126
    	
%
    	
(6,814
    	
)
    	
(27,106
    	
)
    	
398
    	
%
    
	
Unrealized fair value gain on growth of biological assets
    	
 
    	
39,453
    	
 
    	
28,814
    	
 
    	
10,639
    	
 
    	
37
    	
%
    	
5,429
    	
 
    	
34,024
    	
 
    	
627
    	
%
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
45,295
    	
 
    	
48,551
    	
 
    	
(3,256
    	
)
    	
(7
    	
)%
    	
18,596
    	
 
    	
26,699
    	
 
    	
144
    	
%
    
	
Operating expenses
    	
 
    	
52,563
    	
 
    	
47,108
    	
 
    	
5,455
    	
 
    	
12
    	
%
    	
30,498
    	
 
    	
22,065
    	
 
    	
72
    	
%
    
	
Loss from operations
    	
 
    	
(7,268
    	
)
    	
1,443
    	
 
    	
(8,711
    	
)
    	
(604
    	
)%
    	
(11,902
    	
)
    	
4,634
    	
 
    	
(39
    	
)%
    
	
Other income (expense), net
    	
 
    	
(7,858
    	
)
    	
(3,598
    	
)
    	
(4,260
    	
)
    	
118
    	
%
    	
(2,643
    	
)
    	
(5,215
    	
)
    	
197
    	
%
    
	
Loss before provision for income taxes
    	
 
    	
(15,126
    	
)
    	
(2,155
    	
)
    	
(12,971
    	
)
    	
602
    	
%
    	
(14,545
    	
)
    	
(581
    	
)
    	
4
    	
%
    
	
Income tax benefit (expense)
    	
 
    	
(12,026
    	
)
    	
(5,279
    	
)
    	
(6,747
    	
)
    	
128
    	
%
    	
(1,926
    	
)
    	
(10,100
    	
)
    	
524
    	
%
    
	
Net loss
    	
 
    	
(27,152
    	
)
    	
(7,434
    	
)
    	
(19,718
    	
)
    	
265
    	
%
    	
(16,471
    	
)
    	
(10,681
    	
)
    	
65
    	
%
    
	
Less: Net loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest
    	
 
    	
(591
    	
)
    	
(599
    	
)
    	
8
    	
 
    	
(1
    	
)%
    	
(5,272
    	
)
    	
4,681
    	
 
    	
(89
    	
)%
    
	
Net loss attributable to Curaleaf, Holdings Inc.
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(26,561
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(6,835
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(19,726
    	
)
    	
289
    	
%
    	
$
    	
(11,199
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(15,362
    	
)
    	
137
    	
%
    

 

20

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Three months ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘19
    	
 
    	
Q3 ‘19
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘18
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
September 30,
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Retail and   wholesale revenue
    	
 
    	
$
    	
57,681
    	
 
    	
$
    	
50,681
    	
 
    	
$
    	
23,737
    	
 
    
	
Management fee   income
    	
 
    	
17,776
    	
 
    	
11,139
    	
 
    	
8,224
    	
 
    
	
Total revenues
    	
 
    	
75,457
    	
 
    	
61,820
    	
 
    	
31,961
    	
 
    
	
Cost of goods   sold
    	
 
    	
35,695
    	
 
    	
27,079
    	
 
    	
11,980
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of biological assets
    	
 
    	
39,762
    	
 
    	
34,741
    	
 
    	
19,981
    	
 
    
	
Realized fair   value amounts included in inventory sold
    	
 
    	
(33,920
    	
)
    	
(15,004
    	
)
    	
(6,814
    	
)
    
	
Unrealized fair   value gain on growth of biological assets
    	
 
    	
39,453
    	
 
    	
28,814
    	
 
    	
5,429
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
$
    	
45,295
    	
 
    	
$
    	
48,551
    	
 
    	
$
    	
18,596
    	
 
    
	
Gross margin
    	
 
    	
60
    	
%
    	
79
    	
%
    	
58
    	
%
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of management fee income and biological assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
21,986
    	
 
    	
$
    	
23,602
    	
 
    	
$
    	
11,757
    	
 
    
	
Gross margin   before impact of management fee income and biological assets
    	
 
    	
38
    	
%
    	
47
    	
%
    	
50
    	
%
    
	
Gross profit   before impact of management fee income and after net gain on biological   assets
    	
 
    	
$
    	
27,519
    	
 
    	
$
    	
37,412
    	
 
    	
$
    	
10,372
    	
 
    
	
Gross margin   before impact of management fee income and after net gain on biological   assets
    	
 
    	
48
    	
%
    	
74
    	
%
    	
44
    	
%
    

 

Comparison of the Three Months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018

 

Revenue

 

Revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $75,457, an increase of $43,496 or 136% compared to revenue of $31,961 for the three months ended December 31, 2018. The increase in revenue was driven by an increase of $33,944 in retail and wholesale revenue and a $9,552 increase in management fee income.

 

Retail and wholesale revenue was $57,681 for the three months ended December 31, 2019 compared to $23,737 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $33,944 or 143%. The increase in retail and wholesale revenue was primarily due to organic growth in Florida resulting from the opening of eight dispensaries, the acquisition of three dispensaries in Arizona. Additionally, wholesale revenue increased in Massachusetts as a result of the increased number of adult-use dispensaries.

 

The increase in management fee revenue was primarily due to increases in management fee income of $9,552. The increase is primarily due to the growth of Curaleaf NJ, the managed not-for-profit in New Jersey and management fees generated from ATG.

 

Cost of Goods Sold & Change in Fair Value of Biological Assets

 

Cost of goods sold, excluding any adjustments to the fair value of biological assets, for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $35,695, an increase of $23,715 or 198% compared to cost of goods sold for the three months ended December 31, 2018. The increase was primarily due to cultivation and processing costs directly related to the increase in cannabis revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2019, which were the result of opening new dispensaries and acquisitions made in 2019.

 

Biological asset transformation for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $5,533 compared to a negative $1,385 for the three months ended December 31, 2018. The increase was primarily due to the Company beginning cultivation in New York in late 2018, acquisitions in Maryland, Arizona, and California in 2019 and the corresponding increase in the unrealized fair value gain on the growth of biological assets offset by the amounts realized and included in cost of goods sold.

 

21

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $45,295, compared to $18,596 for three months ended December 31, 2018. Gross margin for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was 60% compared to 58% for the three months ended December 31, 2018.

 

Gross profit before management fee income and biological asset adjustments for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $21,986 compared to $11,757 for the three months ended December 31, 2018. Gross margin for the year ended December 31, 2019 was 38% compared to 50% for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase in absolute dollar amount was due to the reasons discussed above under retail and wholesale revenue. The decline in gross margin is due to certain of the Company’s facilities, namely California, bringing on new capacity during the year.

 

Gross profit before management fee income and after net gains on biological assets for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $27,519, compared to $10,372 for the three months ended December 31, 2018. Gross margin for the year ended December 31, 2019 was 48% compared to 44% for the three months ended December 31, 2018. The increase is primarily due to higher operating capacity of the Company’s cultivation and processing facilities and the net gain on biological assets described above.

 

Comparison of the Three Months ended December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2019

 

Revenue

 

Revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $75,457, an increase of $13,637 or 22% compared to revenue of $61,820 for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The increase in revenue was driven by an increase of $7,000 in retail and wholesale revenue and a $6,637 increase in management fee income.

 

Retail and wholesale revenue was $57,681 for the three months ended December 31, 2019 compared to $50,681 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents an increase of $7,000 or 14%. The increase in retail and wholesale revenue was primarily due to organic growth in Arizona and Florida and acquisitions in Nevada.

 

The increase in management fee revenue was primarily due to increases in management fee income of $6,637. The increase is primarily due to the growth of Curaleaf NJ, the managed not-for-profit in New Jersey and management fees generated from ATG.

 

Cost of Goods Sold & Change in Fair Value of Biological Assets

 

Cost of goods sold, excluding any adjustments to the fair value of biological assets, for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $35,695, an increase of $8,616 or 32% compared to cost of goods sold for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The increase was primarily due to cultivation and processing costs directly related to the increase in cannabis revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2019, which were the result of opening new dispensaries and acquisitions made at the end of 2019.

 

Biological asset transformation for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $5,533 compared to a $13,810 for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The increase was primarily due to the timing of harvest and increase cultivation at the end of 2019 and the corresponding increase in the unrealized fair value gain on the growth of biological assets offset by the amounts realized and included in cost of goods sold.

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $45,295, compared to $48,551 for three months ended September 30, 2019. Gross margin for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was 60% compared to 79% for the three months ended September 30, 2019.

 

22

 

Gross profit before management fee income and biological asset adjustments for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $21,986 compared to $23,602 for the three months ended September 30, 2019. Gross margin for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was 38% compared to 47% for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The decrease was due to the reasons discussed above under retail and wholesale revenue.

 

Gross profit before management fee income and after net gains on biological assets for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $27,519, compared to $37,412 for the three months ended December 31, 2018. Gross margin for the year ended December 31, 2019 was 48% compared to 74% for the three months ended December 31, 2018. The decrease is primarily due to higher operating capacity of the Company’s cultivation and processing facilities and the net gain on biological assets described above.

 

Total Operating Expenses

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Three months ended
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘19 vs
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘19 vs
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
September 30,
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
Q3 ‘19
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘18
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
$ Change
    	
 
    	
$ Change
    	
 
    
	
Salaries and   benefits
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 14,940
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 14,296
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 10,802
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 644
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 4,138
    	
 
    
	
Sales and   marketing
    	
 
    	
3,693
    	
 
    	
2,867
    	
 
    	
1,944
    	
 
    	
826
    	
 
    	
1,749
    	
 
    
	
Rent and   occupancy
    	
 
    	
1,214
    	
 
    	
1,384
    	
 
    	
3,655
    	
 
    	
(170
    	
)
    	
(2,441
    	
)
    
	
Travel
    	
 
    	
1,823
    	
 
    	
2,048
    	
 
    	
861
    	
 
    	
(225
    	
)
    	
962
    	
 
    
	
Professional   fees
    	
 
    	
10,363
    	
 
    	
9,288
    	
 
    	
3,713
    	
 
    	
1,075
    	
 
    	
6,650
    	
 
    
	
Office supplies   and services
    	
 
    	
2,592
    	
 
    	
2,043
    	
 
    	
1,722
    	
 
    	
549
    	
 
    	
870
    	
 
    
	
Other
    	
 
    	
1,602
    	
 
    	
1,571
    	
 
    	
3,093
    	
 
    	
31
    	
 
    	
(1,491
    	
)
    
	
Total selling,   general, and administrative
    	
 
    	
36,227
    	
 
    	
33,497
    	
 
    	
25,790
    	
 
    	
2,730
    	
 
    	
10,437
    	
 
    
	
Depreciation and   amortization
    	
 
    	
10,673
    	
 
    	
8,938
    	
 
    	
3,612
    	
 
    	
1,735
    	
 
    	
7,061
    	
 
    
	
Share-based   compensation
    	
 
    	
5,663
    	
 
    	
4,673
    	
 
    	
1,096
    	
 
    	
990
    	
 
    	
4,567
    	
 
    
	
Total operating   expenses
    	
 
    	
$
    	
52,563
    	
 
    	
$
    	
47,108
    	
 
    	
$
    	
30,498
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5,455
    	
 
    	
$
    	
22,065
    	
 
    

 

Comparison of the Three Months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018

 

Total operating expenses for the three months ended December 31, 2019 were $52,563, an increase of $22,065 or 72%, compared to $30,498 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents 70% and 95% of total revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The increase in total operating expenses was primarily attributable to an increase in salaries and benefits, as well as sales and marketing and professional fees as the Company expanded the number of retail dispensaries from 36 in 2018 to 51 in 2019, and increased the level of support staff necessary to run the expanded operations as well as incurred $8,263 and $5,149 in one-time expenses during the three months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, largely associated with acquisitions and business development activities.

 

Salaries and benefits were $14,940 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $10,802 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $4,138. This was due to an increase in headcount at the corporate level as well as headcount from operating markets from organic growth in Florida, Massachusetts, New York, and both organic and acquired growth in Arizona.

 

Sales and marketing expenses totaled $3,693 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $1,944 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $1,749. The increase was largely due to marketing cost associated with marketing CBD products nationally and other branding, lobbying, and public relations costs at the corporate level as well as Florida and Arizona.

 

23

 

Occupancy expenses totaled $1,214 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to rent and occupancy of $3,655 for the three months ended December 31, 2018. The decrease of $2,441 was primarily due to the adoption of IFRS 16 in 2019.

 

Travel expenses totaled $1,823 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $861 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $962. The increase was due to increased management travel associated with expanded operations.

 

Professional fees were $10,363 for the three months ended December 31, 2019 compared to $3,713 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $6,650. This increase was primarily due to increased legal and accounting fees associated with the expansion to new operating markets through organic growth and acquisitions, filing fees and cost associated with the HSR compliance and costs associated with the integration of acquisitions.

 

Other general and administrative expenses were $4,194 for the three months ended December 31, 2019 compared to $4,815 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents a decrease of $621. This decrease was primarily due to decreased expenditures in office supplies and monthly services at the corporate level.

 

Depreciation and amortization was $10,673 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $3,612 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $7,061. The increase was primarily due to the Company’s expansion of capital projects in Connecticut, New York, Florida, Massachusetts and Oregon as well as acquisition and operation of new businesses in Arizona, Nevada and Maryland. Additionally, the adoption of IFRS 16 in 2019 resulted in $3,474 in depreciation expense for the three months ended December 31, 2019.

 

Share-based compensation was $5,663 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $1,096 for the three months ended December 31, 2018 which represents an increase of $4,567. The increase was primarily due to the share-based cost associated with options and restricted stock units granted in 2019.

 

Comparison of the Three Months ended December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2019

 

Total operating expenses for the three months ended December 31, 2019 were $52,563, an increase of $5,455 or 12%, compared to $47,108 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents 70% and 76% of total revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2019, respectively. The increase in total operating expenses was primarily attributable to an increase in salaries and benefits, as well as sales and marketing and professional fees as the Company expanded the number of retail dispensaries from 49 as of September 30, 2019 to 51 at December 31, 2019, and increased the level of support staff necessary to run the expanded operations as well as incurred $8,263 and $7,772 in one-time expenses during the three months ended December 31 and September 30, 2019, respectively, largely associated with acquisitions and business development activities.

 

Salaries and benefits were $14,940 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $14,296 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents an increase of $644. This was due to an increase in headcount at the corporate level as well as headcount from operating markets from organic  growth in Florida, Massachusetts, New York, and both organic and acquired growth in Arizona.

 

Sales and marketing expenses totaled $3,693 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $2,867 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents an increase of $826. The increase was largely due to branding, lobbying, and public relations costs at the corporate level as well as Florida and Arizona.

 

Occupancy expenses totaled $1,214 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $1,384 for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The decrease of $170 was primarily due to additional leases subjected to IFRS 16 in Q4 2019.

 

Travel expenses totaled $1,823 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $2,048 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents a decrease of $225. The increase was due to decreased management travel during the last quarter of 2019.

 

24

 

Professional fees were $10,363 for the three months ended December 31, 2019 compared to $9,288 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents an increase of $1,075. This increase was primarily due to increased legal and accounting fees associated with the expansion to new operating markets through organic growth and acquisitions, filing fees and cost associated with the HSR compliance and costs associated with the integration of acquisitions.

 

Other general and administrative expenses were $4,194 for the three months ended December 31, 2019 compared to $3,614 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents an increase of $580. This increase was primarily due to increased expenditures in office supplies and monthly services at the corporate level, Florida, New York, and Arizona as well as increases in development of new products and business development.

 

Depreciation and amortization was $10,673 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $8,938 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents an increase of $1,735. The increase was primarily due to the Company’s expansion of capital projects in Florida, Connecticut and Oregon as well as acquisition and operation of new businesses in Arizona, Nevada, Maryland, and Massachusetts.

 

Share-based compensation was $5,663 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to $4,673 for the three months ended September 30, 2019 which represents an increase of $990. The increase was primarily due to the share-based cost associated with options and restricted stock units granted in November and December 2019.

 

Total Other Income

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Three Months Ended
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘19 vs
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘19 vs
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
September 30,
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    	
Q3 ‘19
    	
 
    	
Q4 ‘18
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
$ Change
    	
 
    	
$ Change
    	
 
    
	
Interest income
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 2,450
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 2,568
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 1,731
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 (118
    	
)
    	
$
    	
 719
    	
 
    
	
Interest expense
    	
 
    	
(5,397
    	
)
    	
(4,852
    	
)
    	
(4,405
    	
)
    	
(545
    	
)
    	
(992
    	
)
    
	
Interest expense   related to lease liabilities
    	
 
    	
(2,148
    	
)
    	
(1,894
    	
)
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(254
    	
)
    	
(2,148
    	
)
    
	
Other income   (expense)
    	
 
    	
(2,763
    	
)
    	
580
    	
 
    	
31
    	
 
    	
(3,343
    	
)
    	
(2,794
    	
)
    
	
Total other   income (expense), net
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(7,858
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(3,598
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(2,643
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(4,260
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(5,215
    	
)
    

 

Comparison of the Three Months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018

 

Total other income (expense), net for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was a net loss of $7,858 compared to net loss of $2,643 for the three months ended December 31, 2018. The increase in expense is primarily due to the additional debt incurred in August 2018 and the interest expense related to lease liabilities associated with the adoption of IFRS 16 in 2019. During the three months ended December 31, 2019, the Company recognized a loss related to the Curaleaf Hemp brand of $2,323.

 

Interest income for the three months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $2,450 and $1,731, respectively. The increase of $719 was due to an increase in the notes receivable outstanding balances during 2019.

 

Interest expense, excluding interest related to lease liabilities for the three months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $5,397 and $4,405 respectively. The increase of $992 was due to new borrowings entered into by the Company.

 

Interest expense related to lease liabilities was $2,148 and was attributable to the adoption of IFRS 16 in 2019.

 

Provision for Income Taxes

 

The Company recorded an income tax expense of $12,026 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to an income tax expense of $1,926 for the three months ended December 31, 2018. The increase was the result of increased gross profit in certain of the Company’s subsidiaries that are subjected to Section 280E and increase in biological assets resulting in increased deferred tax expense.

 

25

 

Net Loss

 

Net loss for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $27,152 compared to net loss of $16,471 for the three months ended December 31, 2018, which represents an increase of $10,681, or 65%. The increase was primarily driven by the increase in operating expenses described above, partially offset by the increase in gross profit.

 

Comparison of the Three Months ended December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2019

 

Total other income (expense), net for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was a net loss of $7,858 compared to net loss of $3,598 for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The increase in expense is primarily due to a loss related the Curaleaf Hemp brand of $2,323.

 

Interest income for the three months ended December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2019 was $2,450 and $2,568, respectively. The decrease of $118 was due to a reduction of bank deposit interest income related to the lower cash balance during the last quarter of 2019.

 

Interest expense, excluding interest related to lease liabilities for the three months ended December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2019 was $5,397 and $4,852 respectively. The increase of $545 was due to a catch up in it interest expense related to the Secured Promissory Notes.

 

Interest expense related to lease liabilities was attributable to the adoption of IFRS 16 in 2019. The interest expense related to lease liabilities for the three months ended December 31, and September 30, 2019 was $2,148 and $1,894, respectively.

 

Provision for Income Taxes

 

The Company recorded an income tax expense of $12,026 for the three months ended December 31, 2019, compared to an income tax expense of $5,279 for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The increase was the result of increased gross profit in certain of the Company’s subsidiaries that are subjected to Section 280E and increase in biological assets resulting in increased deferred tax expense.

 

Net Loss

 

Net loss for the three months ended December 31, 2019 was $27,152 compared to net loss of $7,434 for the three months ended September 30, 2019, which represents a decrease of $19,718, or 265%. The increase was primarily driven by the increase in operating expenses and the decrease in gross profit as described above.

 

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Liquidity, and Capital Resources

 

Our primary need for liquidity is to fund working capital requirements of our business, capital expenditures, acquisitions, debt service, and for general corporate purposes. To date our primary source of liquidity has been from  funds generated by financing activities, including Private Placement and the senior secured debt financing completed in January 2020. See the “Reverse Takeover Transaction and Private Placement” and “Recent Financing Transactions” sections of this MD&A. Our ability to fund our operations, to make planned capital expenditures, to make planned acquisitions, to make scheduled debt payments, and to repay or refinance indebtedness depends on our future operating performance and cash flows, which are subject to prevailing economic conditions and financial, business and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. See the “Financial Instruments and Financial Risk Management” and “Risk Factors” sections of this MD&A.

 

As of December 31, 2019, we had $43,478 of cash and working capital of $43,275 (current assets minus current liabilities), compared with $266,616 of cash and $288,632 of working capital as of December 31, 2018. The decrease of $245,104 in

 

26

 

our working capital was primarily due to a $223,138 decrease in cash largely resulting from cash paid for acquisitions, capital expenditures, advances on notes, and increases in inventory during the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

The Company is an early stage growth company. It is generating cash from sales and is investing its capital reserves in current operations and new acquisitions that are expected to generate additional earnings in the long term.

 

The Company expects that its cash on hand and cash flows from operations, along with private and/or public financing, will be adequate to meet its capital requirements and operational needs for the next 12 months.

 

Recent Financing Transactions

 

In January 2020, the Company closed on a Senior Secured Term Loan Facility (“Facility”) from a syndicate of lenders totaling $300,000. The amounts owing under the Facility bear interest at a rate of 13.0% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears with a maturity on December 2023. A portion of the proceeds of the Facility were used to retire in full the existing 13% senior secured debt financing agreement of $85,000, which was closed on August 27, 2018.  In August 2019, the Company completed a sale leaseback transaction with Freehold Properties that provided $25,245 of cash. The proceeds from this transaction will be used for capital expenditures and acquisition purposes.

 

Cash Flows

 

The following table summarizes the sources and uses of cash or each of the periods presented:

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year ended
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
December 31, 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Net cash used in   operating activities
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 (38,321
    	
)
    	
$
    	
 (33,101
    	
)
    
	
Net cash used in   investing activities
    	
 
    	
(204,045
    	
)
    	
(134,266
    	
)
    
	
Net cash provided   by financing activities
    	
 
    	
18,060
    	
 
    	
413,008
    	
 
    
	
Net increase   (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(224,306
    	
)
    	
$
    	
245,641
    	
 
    

 

Operating Activities

 

During the year ended December 31, 2019, operating activities used $38,321 of cash, primarily resulting from our net loss of $69,847 and net non-cash gains including unrealized changes in fair value of biological assets of $45,519, partially offset by net cash provided by changes in our operating assets and liabilities of $13,992. Cash provided by changes in operating assets and liabilities was primarily due to increases in accounts receivable, income tax payable, inventory and other assets of $6,943, $12,384, $28,746 and $1,216, respectively.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, operating activities used $33,101 of cash, primarily resulting from our net loss of $61,877 and net non-cash gains including unrealized changes in fair value of biological assets of $14,335, partially offset by net cash provided by changes in our operating assets and liabilities of $14,441. Cash provided by changes in operating assets and liabilities was primarily due to an increase of accounts payable and accrued expenses of $14,133, partially offset by increases in inventory, accounts receivable, prepaid expenses and other assets of $13,176, $8,142, and $3,615, respectively.

 

Investing Activities

 

During the year ended December 31, 2019, investing activities used $204,045 of cash, consisting primarily of payments totaling $82,075 in purchases of property and equipment, $80,560 in connection with acquisitions and $35,444 in connection with the amounts advanced under notes receivable.

 

27

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, investing activities used $134,266 of cash, consisting primarily of payments totaling $44,904 in purchases of property and equipment, $73,164 in connection with acquisitions and $16,198 in connection with the amounts advanced under notes receivable.

 

Financing Activities

 

During the year ended December 31, 2019, financing activities provided $18,060 of cash, consisting primarily of $25,245 cash received from a sale leaseback transaction and option exercise of $2,337, offset by $5,132 of lease liability payments, principal payments on debt of $3,112 and repurchase of common stock of $883.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, financing activities provided $413,008 of cash, consisting primarily of $375,159 in proceeds from the Private Placement, $28,500 in proceeds from the issuance of common stock of Curaleaf, Inc. and $104,247 in proceeds from debt issuances, partially offset by $26,300 in repayments of debt and $66,642 in connection with minority buyouts.

 

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

 

The Company leases space for its offices, cultivation centers, and retail dispensaries. Key movements relating to the lease balances are present below:

 

	
Period
    	
 
    	
Scheduled payments
    	
 
    
	
2020
    	
 
    	
17,381
    	
 
    
	
2021
    	
 
    	
16,377
    	
 
    
	
2022
    	
 
    	
17,250
    	
 
    
	
2023
    	
 
    	
16,126
    	
 
    
	
2024 and   thereafter
    	
 
    	
62,320
    	
 
    
	
Total   undiscounted lease liability
    	
 
    	
129,454
    	
 
    
	
Impact of   discount
    	
 
    	
(36,300
    	
)
    
	
Lease liability   at December 31, 2019
    	
 
    	
93,154
    	
 
    
	
Less current   portion of lease liability
    	
 
    	
(11,835
    	
)
    
	
Long-term   portion of lease liability
    	
 
    	
$
    	
81,319
    	
 
    
					

 

Real estate leases typically extend for a period of 1—10 years. Some leases for office space include extension options exercisable up to one year before the end of the cancellable lease term. Typically, the option to renew the lease is for an additional period of 5 years after the end of the initial contract term and are at the option of the Company as the lessee. Lease payments are in substance fixed, and most real estate leases include annual escalation clauses with reference to an index or contractual rate.

 

The Company leases machinery and equipment but does not purchase or guarantee the value of leased assets. The Company considers these assets to be of low-value or short-term in nature and therefore no right-of use assets and lease liabilities are recognized for these leases. Expenses recognized relating to short-term leases and leases of low value during the year ended December 31, 2019 were immaterial.

 

Amounts in the table below reflect the contractually required principal and interest payments payable under promissory note agreements and other long-term debt. The various borrowings bear interest at rates between 7% and 15% per annum:

 

	
Year ending December 31, 
    	
 
    	
Amount
    	
 
    
	
2020
    	
 
    	
$
    	
17,000
    	
 
    
	
2021
    	
 
    	
90,795
    	
 
    
	
2022
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
2023
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
2024 and   thereafter
    	
 
    	
2,931
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
110,726
    	
 
    

 

28

 

SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Q4
    	
 
    	
Q3
    	
 
    	
Q2
    	
 
    	
Q1
    	
 
    	
Q4
    	
 
    	
Q3
    	
 
    	
Q2
    	
 
    	
Q1
    	
 
    
	
Revenue
    	
 
    	
$
    	
75,457
    	
 
    	
$
    	
61,820
    	
 
    	
$
    	
48,489
    	
 
    	
$
    	
35,251
    	
 
    	
$
    	
31,961
    	
 
    	
$
    	
21,370
    	
 
    	
$
    	
14,644
    	
 
    	
$
    	
9,085
    	
 
    
	
Cost of goods sold
    	
 
    	
35,695
    	
 
    	
27,079
    	
 
    	
22,469
    	
 
    	
17,144
    	
 
    	
11,980
    	
 
    	
7,501
    	
 
    	
6,835
    	
 
    	
4,856
    	
 
    
	
Net change in fair value of biological assets
    	
 
    	
5,533
    	
 
    	
13,810
    	
 
    	
1,392
    	
 
    	
2,246
    	
 
    	
(1,385
    	
)
    	
166
    	
 
    	
1,120
    	
 
    	
501
    	
 
    
	
Gross profit
    	
 
    	
45,295
    	
 
    	
48,551
    	
 
    	
27,412
    	
 
    	
20,353
    	
 
    	
18,596
    	
 
    	
14,035
    	
 
    	
8,929
    	
 
    	
4,727
    	
 
    
	
Operating expenses
    	
 
    	
52,563
    	
 
    	
47,108
    	
 
    	
39,713
    	
 
    	
29,945
    	
 
    	
30,498
    	
 
    	
20,852
    	
 
    	
14,612
    	
 
    	
(4,279
    	
)
    
	
Other income, net
    	
 
    	
(7,858
    	
)
    	
(3,598
    	
)
    	
(3,942
    	
)
    	
(2,674
    	
)
    	
(2,643
    	
)
    	
(26,041
    	
)
    	
488
    	
 
    	
643
    	
 
    
	
Net Loss
    	
 
    	
(27,152
    	
)
    	
(7,434
    	
)
    	
(24,435
    	
)
    	
(10,828
    	
)
    	
(16,471
    	
)
    	
(35,562
    	
)
    	
(6,430
    	
)
    	
(3,413
    	
)
    
	
Less: Net loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest
    	
 
    	
(591
    	
)
    	
(599
    	
)
    	
106
    	
 
    	
(619
    	
)
    	
(5,272
    	
)
    	
(1,889
    	
)
    	
(1,497
    	
)
    	
(1,107
    	
)
    
	
Net loss attributable to Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.
    	
 
    	
(26,561
    	
)
    	
(6,835
    	
)
    	
(24,541
    	
)
    	
(10,209
    	
)
    	
(11,199
    	
)
    	
(33,673
    	
)
    	
(4,933
    	
)
    	
(2,306
    	
)
    
	
Loss per share - basic and diluted
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(0.06
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.01
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.05
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.02
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.03
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.09
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.01
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(0.01
    	
)
    
	
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic and diluted
    	
 
    	
468,445,941
    	
 
    	
464,073,130
    	
 
    	
461,313,741
    	
 
    	
453,559,765
    	
 
    	
436,048,233
    	
 
    	
385,754,657
    	
 
    	
382,618,764
    	
 
    	
381,086,113
    	
 
    

 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

 

As of the date of this filing, the Company does not have any off-balance-sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future effect on the results of operations or financial condition of the Company, including, and without limitation, such considerations as liquidity and capital resources.

 

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

The Company incurred the following transactions with related parties during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018.

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year Ended December 31,
    	
 
    	
Year Ended December 31,
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
Transaction
    	
 
    	
Related Party Transactions
    	
 
    	
Balance Receivable (Payable)
    	
 
    
	
Senior Unsecured Note - 2019 (1)
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 237
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 237
    	
 
    	
$
    	
—
    	
 
    	
$
    	
 (1,666
    	
)
    
	
Consulting Fees (1)
    	
 
    	
319
    	
 
    	
201
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Deal Fees (1)
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
1,800
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Travel and   Reimbursement (1)
    	
 
    	
816
    	
 
    	
1,052
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Rent expense (1)
    	
 
    	
238
    	
 
    	
91
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Contingent   Liability (2)
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
(18,000
    	
)
    	
(18,000
    	
)
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,610
    	
 
    	
$
    	
3,381
    	
 
    	
$
    	
(18,000
    	
)
    	
$
    	
(19,666
    	
)
    

 

(1) Interest, debt related, general and administrative fees due to a director in common.

(2) Contingent consideration liability for the purchase of CLMA.

 

	
 
    	
 
    	
Year Ended December 31,
    	
 
    
	
Key Management Personnel Compensation
    	
 
    	
2019
    	
 
    	
2018
    	
 
    
	
Short-term   employee benefits
    	
 
    	
$
    	
1,997
    	
 
    	
$
    	
4,776
    	
 
    
	
Post-employment   benefits
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Other long-term   benefits
    	
 
    	
27
    	
 
    	
37
    	
 
    
	
Termination   benefits
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    	
—
    	
 
    
	
Share-based   payments
    	
 
    	
12,493
    	
 
    	
1,149
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
$
    	
14,517
    	
 
    	
$
    	
5,962
    	
 
    

 

29

 

PROPOSED TRANSACTIONS

 

Alternative Therapies Group, Inc, a Massachusetts corporation (“ATG”)

 

In August 2018, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire ATG (“ATG Acquisition”), a registered marijuana dispensary licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Health, operating a 53,600 square foot cultivation and processing facility in Amesbury, Massachusetts and intends to enter into supply agreements with up to three ATG dispensaries in Massachusetts. The consideration payable by the Company for the acquisition of ATG is $50,000, $42,500 of which was prepaid in cash in December 2018 in order to solidify the Company’s intent to complete the purchase of ATG and was recorded as a non-current asset. The remaining $7,500 is due on the later of December 31, 2019 or the date on which certain milestones are met.  The closing of the transaction is subject to certain milestones being met and regulatory approval.

 

Cura Partners, Inc., an Oregon corporation (“Cura” or “Select”)

 

On May 1, 2019, Curaleaf announced the signature of a definitive agreement to acquire Cura Partners, Inc. (“Cura”), owners of the Select brand (“Select”). The acquisition includes Select’s manufacturing, processing, distribution, marketing and retailing operations and all adult-use and medical cannabis products marketed under the Select brand name, including all intellectual property (the “Cura Transaction”).

 

Refer to the Company’s material change reports dated May 10, 2019 and November 8, 2019, both of which have been filed on SEDAR, with respect to the Cura Transaction for additional details regarding the terms of the Cura Transaction under the original merger agreement.

 

Due to changes in market conditions, Curaleaf and Select mutually agreed on October 30, 2019 to reduce the base consideration payable upon closing of the Cura Transaction. Under the amended and restated merger agreement (the “Amended Merger Agreement”), the number of SVS payable at closing of the Cura Transaction was reduced to 55,000,000 SVS from 95,555,556 SVS originally. The remaining 40,555,556 SVS will be payable to Select equity holders contingent upon Curaleaf achieving certain calendar year 2020 revenue targets based on Select-branded retail extract sales beginning at a target of $130,000 with maximum achievement at $250,000. In addition, Select equity holders will also be eligible to receive an earn-out of up to $200,000 from the issuance of additional SVS, contingent upon Curaleaf exceeding $300,000 in calendar year 2020 revenue for Select-branded retail extract sales.

 

The Select transaction closed on February 1, 2020.

 

Ohio Grown Therapies, LLC, an Ohio limited liability company (“OGT”)

 

In May 2019, the Company entered into an agreement granting it an option to acquire OGT for $20,000. The Company paid $5,000 cash in May 2019 and the remaining consideration will be paid upon completion of milestones, culminating with regulatory approval of the transfer of the final licenses and OGT facility to Curaleaf.  The closing of this transaction is currently pending regulatory approval.

 

GR Companies, Inc., a Delaware company (“Grassroots”)

 

In July 2019, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire Grassroots (“Grassroots Acquisition”), a large, private, vertically integrated multi-state operator, for consideration composed of $75,000 in cash, and approximately 102,808,038 SVS. Consideration is subject to adjustments for working capital and cash at closing. Consideration also includes additional SVS equal to the quotient obtained by dividing $40,000 by the higher of (i) the 10-day volume-weighted average price per SVS, determined as of the close of business on the last business day prior to the closing date, on the CSE and (ii) eighty-five percent (85%) of the 1-day volume-weighted average price per SVS determined two trading days prior to the closing date of such SVS on the CSE. In February 2020, the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 expired with respect to the acquisition of Grassroots. The closing of this transaction is currently pending completion of certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

 

30

 

Arrow Alternative Care, Inc., Arrow Alternative Care #2, Inc., Arrow Alternative Care #3, Inc., each a Delaware corporation (collectively, the “Arrow Companies”)

 

In March 2020, the Company signed definitive agreements to acquire the Arrow Companies, which operate licensed medical cannabis dispensaries in Stamford, Hartford, and Milford, Connecticut.  The aggregated consideration to be paid for the Arrow Companies is $38,000, consisting of $16,400 cash and $21,600 to be paid in SVS. The closing of this transaction is currently pending completion of certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

 

Virginia’s Kitchen, LLC, a Colorado company d/b/a Blue Kudu (“Blue Kudu”)

 

In February 2020, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire Blue Kudu, a Colorado-licensed processor and producer cannabis edibles, operating an 8,400 sq.ft. facility in Denver, Colorado.    The consideration to be paid for Blue Kudu consists of 322,580 SVS, $1,250 cash at closing of the transaction and a 5% note for $500 due ten and a half months from closing.   The closing of this transaction is currently pending completion of certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval (other than the HSR approval).

 

CHANGES IN OR ADOPTION OF ACCOUNTING PRACTICES

 

The following IFRS standards have been recently issued by the IASB. The Company is assessing the impact of these new standards on future consolidated financial statements. Pronouncements that are not applicable or where it has been determined do not have a significant impact to the Company have been excluded herein.

 

IFRS 16: Leases

 

In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which replaces IAS 17 — Leases. The Company adopted IFRS 16 on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective approach and therefore the comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under IAS 17.  Specifically, rent expense will be replaced by associated depreciation of the right-to-use assets and interest expense. Since the Company is not restating prior periods as part of adopting IFRS 16, current results will not be directly comparable to results for periods before January 1, 2019.

 

Under IAS 17, a lease of property and equipment was classified as an operating lease whenever the terms of the lease did not transfer substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessee. Lease payments were recognized as rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term, except where another systematic basis was more representative of the time pattern in which the economic benefits were consumed.

 

Under IFRS 16, at inception of a contract, the Company assesses whether a contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period in exchange for consideration, in which case it is classified as a lease. The Company recognizes a right-of-use asset (“lease asset”) and a lease liability at the lease commencement date. The asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred and an estimate of costs to restore the underlying asset, less any lease incentives received. The lease asset is subsequently amortized using the straight-line method from the commencement date to the end of the useful life of the right-of-use asset, considered to be indicated by the lease term. The lease asset is periodically assessed and adjusted for certain remeasurements of the lease liability and impairment losses, if any. The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of outstanding lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the Company’s incremental borrowing rate. The lease liability is measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method and is remeasured when there is a change in future lease payments arising from a change in an index or rate or if the Company changes its assessment of whether it will exercise a purchase, extension or termination option. A corresponding adjustment is made to the carrying amount of the right-of-use asset with any excess over the carrying amount of the asset being recognized in the statement of profits or losses.

 

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The Company has elected not to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases (leases with a term of 12 months or less) and leases of low-value assets such as small equipment. The Company recognizes the lease payments associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

 

On transition to IFRS 16, the Company recognized a right-of-use asset of $41,853, a corresponding lease liability of $42,842 and derecognized $989 of deferred rent. When measuring lease liabilities, the Company discounted lease payments using its incremental borrowing rate ranging from 8.19% to 9.42%.

 

Amendment to IFRS 3: Definition of a Business

 

In October 2018, the IASB issued “Definition of a Business (Amendments to IFRS 3)”. The amendments clarify the definition of a business, with the objective of assisting entities to determine whether a transaction should be accounted for as a business combination or as an asset acquisition. The amendment provides an assessment framework to determine when a series of integrated activities is not a business. The amendments are effective for business combinations occurring on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after January 1, 2020, however early application is permitted. The Company has elected early application of the amendment and elects whether to apply, or not apply, the test to each transaction separately.

 

IAS 1: Presentation of Financial Statements & IAS 8 — Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors

 

In October 2018, the IASB issued “Definition of Material”, an amendment to IAS 1 — Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 8 — Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors, to clarify the definition of material and to align the definition used in the Conceptual Framework and the standards themselves. Materiality is defined as “information is material if omitting, misstating or obscuring it could reasonably be expected to influence decisions that the primary users of general purpose financial statements make on the basis of those financial statements, which provide financial information about a specific reporting entity.” This amendment will be effective for the annual period beginning January 1, 2020. The extent of the impact of application of the interpretation has not yet been determined.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

 

The preparation of the Company’s annual audited consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and revenue and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods if the review affects both current and future periods.

 

Significant judgments, estimates and assumptions that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the audited consolidated financial statements are described below.

 

Discount rate for leases

 

IFRS 16 - Leases requires lessees to discount lease payments using the rate implicit in the lease, if that rate is readily available. If that rate cannot be readily determined, the lessee is required to use its incremental borrowing rate. The Company generally uses the incremental borrowing rate when initially recording real estate leases as the implicit rates are not readily available as information from the lessor regarding the fair value of underlying assets and initial direct costs incurred by the lessor related to the leased assets is not available. The Company determines the incremental borrowing rate as the interest rate the Company would pay to borrow over a similar term the funds necessary to obtain an asset of a similar value to the right-of-use asset in a similar economic environment.

 

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Estimated Useful Lives and Depreciation of Property and Equipment

 

Depreciation of property and equipment is dependent upon estimates of useful lives which are determined through the exercise of judgment. The assessment of any impairment of these assets is dependent upon estimates of recoverable amounts that take into account factors such as economic and market conditions and the useful lives of assets.

 

Estimated Useful Lives and Amortization of Intangible Assets

 

Amortization of intangible assets is dependent upon estimates of useful lives which are determined through exercise of judgment and do not exceed the contractual period, if any. Intangible assets that have indefinite useful lives are not subject to amortization and are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be impaired.

 

Biological Assets

 

Biological assets are dependent upon estimates of future economic benefits as a result of past events to determine the fair value through an exercise of significant judgment by the Company. In estimating the fair value of an asset or a liability, the Company uses market observable data to the extent it is available. The Company uses the average selling price per gram in the market in which the biological assets are produced to determine fair value. The Company reevaluates market prices on a quarterly basis in order to ensure biological assets are measured at the most relevant fair value.

 

Business Combinations

 

In a business combination, all identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired are recorded at their fair values. One of the most significant estimates relates to the determination of the fair value of these assets and liabilities. Contingent consideration is measured at its acquisition-date fair value and included as part of the consideration transferred in a business combination. Contingent consideration that is classified as equity is not remeasured at subsequent reporting dates and its subsequent settlement is accounted for within equity. Contingent consideration that is classified as an asset or a liability is remeasured at subsequent reporting dates in accordance with IFRS 9 — Financial Instruments with the corresponding gain or loss being recognized in the consolidated statement of profits and losses. For any intangible asset identified, depending on the type of intangible asset and the complexity of determining its fair value, an independent valuation expert or management may develop the fair value, using appropriate valuation techniques, which are generally based on a forecast of the total expected future net cash flows. The evaluations are linked closely to the assumptions made by management regarding the future performance of the assets concerned and any changes in the discount rate applied.

 

Certain fair values may be estimated at the acquisition date pending confirmation or completion of the valuation process. Where provisional values are used in accounting for a business combination, they may be adjusted retrospectively in subsequent periods, not to exceed one year from the acquisition date.

 

Compound financial instruments

 

The identification of components in compound financial instruments is based on interpretations of the substance of the contractual arrangement and requires judgment from management. The separation of the components affects the initial recognition at issuance and the subsequent recognition of interest on the liability component. The determination of the fair value of the liability is also based on a number of assumptions, including contractual future cash flows, discount rates and the presence of any derivative financial instruments.

 

Share-based Payment Arrangements

 

The Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation model to determine the fair value of share-based payment arrangements granted to employees and directors. In instances where stock options have performance or market conditions, the Company utilizes the Monte Carlo valuation model to simulate the various outcomes that affect the value of the option.  In estimating fair value, management is required to make certain assumptions and estimates such as the expected life of units, volatility

 

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of the Company’s future share price, risk free rates, future dividend yields and estimated forfeitures at the initial grant date. Changes in assumptions used to estimate fair value could result in materially different results.

 

Goodwill Impairment

 

Goodwill is tested for impairment annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of goodwill has been impaired. In order to determine if the value of goodwill has been impaired, the CGU to which goodwill has been allocated must be valued using present value techniques. When applying this valuation technique, the Company relies on a number of factors including historical results, business plans, forecasts and market data. Changes in the conditions for these judgments and estimates can significantly affect the assessed value of goodwill.

 

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

 

The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, notes receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses, long-term debt, and redeemable non-controlling contingency. The fair values of cash, restricted cash, notes receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate their carrying values due to the relatively short-term to maturity. The Company’s long-term notes payable carrying value at the effective interest rate approximate fair value. Financial instruments recorded at fair value are classified using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs to fair value measurements. The three levels of hierarchy are:

 

Level 1 — Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

 

Level 2 — Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and

 

Level 3 — Inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data.

 

The Company’s assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include investments, long-lived assets and indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. The Company reviews the carrying amounts of such assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable or at least annually as at December 31, for indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. Any resulting asset impairment would require that the asset be recorded at its fair value. The resulting fair value measurements of the assets are considered to be Level 3 measurements.

 

Financial Risk Management

 

The Company is exposed in varying degrees to a variety of financial instrument related risks. The Company’s risk exposures and the impact on the Company’s financial instruments are summarized below:

 

Credit Risk

 

Credit risk is the risk of a potential loss to the Company if a customer or third party to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. The maximum credit exposure at December 31, 2019 and 2018 is the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and notes receivable. The Company does not have significant credit risk with respect to its customers. All cash and cash equivalents are placed with major U.S. financial institutions.

 

The Company provides credit to its customers in the normal course of business and has established credit evaluation and monitoring processes to mitigate credit risk, but has limited risk as the majority of its sales are transacted with cash.

 

Liquidity Risk

 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations associated with financial liabilities. The Company manages liquidity risk through the management of its cash flows necessary to fund operations

 

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and development and its capital structure. The Company’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure that it will have sufficient liquidity to settle obligations and liabilities when due.

 

The Company continues to have robust access to equity and debt financing from public and private markets in Canada. If such financing were no longer available in the public markets in Canada due to changes in applicable law, then the Company expects that it would have to raise financing privately.

 

Market Risk

 

Currency Risk

 

The operating results and financial position of the Company are reported in U.S. dollars. Some of the Company’s financial transactions have been and may be denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The results of the Company’s operations are subject to currency transaction and translation risks.

 

At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company had no hedging agreements in place with respect to foreign exchange rates. The Company has not entered into any agreements or purchased any instruments to hedge possible currency risks at this time.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. Cash and cash equivalents bear interest at market rates. The Company’s financial debts have fixed rates of interest and therefore expose the Company to a limited interest rate fair value risk.

 

REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT: ISSUERS WITH UNITED STATES CANNABIS-RELATED ASSETS

 

In accordance with Staff Notice 51-352, below is a discussion of the current federal and state-level U.S. regulatory regimes in those jurisdictions where the Company is currently directly and indirectly involved, through its subsidiaries and investments, in the cannabis industry.

 

In accordance with Staff Notice 51-352, the Company will evaluate, monitor and reassess this disclosure, and any related risks, on an ongoing basis and the same will be supplemented, amended and communicated to investors in public filings, including in the event of government policy changes or the introduction of new or amended guidance, laws or regulations regarding marijuana regulation.  Any non-compliance, citations or notices of violation which may have an impact on the Company’s license, business activities or operations will be promptly disclosed by the Company.

 

The Company derives its revenues from the cannabis industry in certain states of the U.S., and the industry is illegal under U.S. federal law.

 

The Company is involved (through its licensed subsidiaries) in the cannabis industry in the U.S. where local state laws permit such activities. Currently, its subsidiaries and managed entities are directly engaged in the manufacture, possession, use, sale or distribution of cannabis and/or hold licenses in the adult-use and/or medicinal cannabis marketplace in the states of Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Utah and Oregon; and have partnered with an accredited medical school and obtained a “clinical registrant” license in Pennsylvania.

 

The Company’s Statement of Financial Position and Operating Statement Exposure to U.S. marijuana Related Activities

 

As of the date of this MD&A, all of the Company’s business was directly derived from U.S. cannabis-related activities. As such, the Company’s statement of financial position and statement of profits and losses exposure to U.S. cannabis-related activities is 100%.

 

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Readers are cautioned that the foregoing financial information, though extracted from the Company’s financial systems that supports its annual consolidated financial statements, has not been audited in its presentation format and accordingly is not in compliance with IFRS based on consolidation principles.

 

U.S. Federal Overview

 

The U.S. federal government regulates drugs through the Controlled Substances Act (the “CSA”), which places controlled substances, including cannabis, in one of five different schedules. Cannabis is classified as a Schedule I drug. As a Schedule I drug, the Federal Drug Enforcement Agency (“DEA”) considers cannabis to have a high potential for abuse; no  currently accepted medical use in treatment in the U.S., and a lack of accepted safety for use of the drug under medical supervision. The classification of cannabis as a Schedule I drug is inconsistent with what the Company believes to be many valuable medical uses for marijuana accepted by physicians, researchers, patients, and others. As evidence of this, the federal Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) on June 25, 2018 approved Epidiolex (cannabidiol) (“CBD”) oral solution with an active ingredient derived from the cannabis plant for the treatment of seizures associated with two rare and severe forms of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, in patients two years of age and older. This is the first FDA-approved drug that contains a purified drug substance derived from the cannabis plant. In this case, the substance is CBD, a chemical component of marijuana that does not contain the intoxication properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”), the primary psychoactive component of marijuana. The Company believes the CSA categorization as a Schedule I drug is not reflective of the medicinal properties of marijuana or the public perception thereof, and numerous studies show cannabis is not able to be abused in the same way as other Schedule I drugs, has medicinal properties, and can be safely administered.

 

The federal position is also not necessarily consistent with democratic approval of marijuana at the state government level in the United States. Unlike in Canada, which has federal legislation uniformly governing the cultivation, distribution, sale and possession of marijuana under the Cannabis Act (Canada), cannabis is largely regulated at the state level in the United States. State laws regulating cannabis conflict with the CSA, which makes cannabis use and possession federally illegal. Although certain states and territories of the United States authorize medical or adult-use cannabis production and distribution by licensed or registered entities, under United States federal law, the possession, use, cultivation, and transfer of cannabis and any related drug paraphernalia is illegal, and any such acts are criminal acts. Although the Company’s activities are compliant with applicable state and local laws, strict compliance with state and local laws with respect to cannabis may neither absolve the Company of liability under United States federal law nor provide a defense to federal criminal charges that may be brought against the Company. The Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution establishes that the United States Constitution and federal laws made pursuant to it are paramount and, in case of conflict between federal and State law, federal law shall apply.

 

Nonetheless, 33 states and the District of Columbia in the United States have legalized some form cannabis for medical use, while 11 states and the District of Columbia have legalized the adult use of cannabis for recreational purposes. As more and more states legalized medical and/or adult-use marijuana, the federal government attempted to provide clarity on the incongruity between federal prohibition under the CSA and these state-legal regulatory frameworks. Notwithstanding the foregoing, marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, with marijuana listed as a Schedule I drug under the CSA. Until 2018, the federal government provided guidance to federal law enforcement agencies and banking institutions through a series of United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) memoranda. The most recent such memorandum was drafted by former Deputy Attorney General James Cole on August 29, 2013 (the “Cole Memorandum”).

 

The Cole Memorandum offered guidance to federal enforcement agencies as to how to prioritize civil enforcement, criminal investigations and prosecutions regarding marijuana in all states, and instructed federal law enforcement agencies not to prosecute violations of federal drug laws related to cannabis where the activity is permitted and regulated under cannabis laws of the relevant state.

 

The Cole Memorandum put forth eight prosecution priorities:

 

1.              Preventing the distribution of marijuana to minors;

 

2.              Preventing revenue from the sale of marijuana from going to criminal enterprises, gangs and cartels;

 

3.              Preventing the diversion of marijuana from states where it is legal under state law in some form to other states;

 

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4.              Preventing the state-authorized marijuana activity from being used as a cover or pretext for the trafficking of other illegal drugs or other illegal activity;

 

5.              Preventing the violence and the use of firearms in the cultivation and distribution of marijuana;

 

6.              Preventing drugged driving and the exacerbation of other adverse public health consequences associated with marijuana use;

 

7.              Preventing the growing of marijuana on public lands and the attendant public safety and environmental dangers posed by marijuana production on public lands; and

 

8.              Preventing marijuana possession or use on federal property.

 

The Cole Memorandum was seen by many state-legal marijuana companies as a safe harbor for their licensed operations that were conducted in full compliance with all applicable state and local regulations.

 

On January 4, 2018, former United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions rescinded the Cole Memorandum by issuing a new memorandum to all United States Attorneys (the “Sessions Memorandum”). Rather than establish national enforcement priorities particular to marijuana-related crimes in jurisdictions where certain marijuana activity was legal under state law, the Sessions Memorandum instructs that “in deciding which marijuana activities to prosecute... with the DOJ’s finite resources, prosecutors should follow the well established principles that govern all federal prosecutions.” Namely, these include the seriousness of the offense, history of criminal activity, deterrent effect of prosecution, the interests of victims, and other principles.

 

In the absence of a uniform federal policy, as had been established by the Cole Memorandum, numerous United States Attorneys with state-legal marijuana programs within their jurisdictions have announced enforcement priorities for their respective offices. For instance, Andrew Lelling, United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, stated that while his office would not immunize any businesses from federal prosecution, he anticipated focusing the office’s marijuana enforcement efforts on: (1) overproduction; (2) targeted sales to minors; and (3) organized crime and interstate transportation of drug proceeds. Other United States attorneys provided less assurance, promising to enforce federal law, including the CSA in appropriate circumstances.

 

Former United States Attorney General Sessions resigned on November 7, 2018. He was replaced by William Barr on February 14, 2019. It is unclear what specific impact this development will have on U.S. federal government enforcement policy. However, in a written response to questions from U.S. Senator Cory Booker made as a nominee, Attorney General Barr stated, “I do not intend to go after parties who have complied with state law in reliance on the Cole Memorandum.” Nonetheless, there is no guarantee that state laws legalizing and regulating the sale and use of cannabis will not be repealed or overturned, or that local governmental authorities will not limit the applicability of state laws within their respective jurisdictions. Unless and until the U.S. Congress amends the CSA with respect to cannabis (and as to the timing or scope of any such potential amendments there can be no assurance), there is a risk that federal authorities may enforce current federal law.

 

The Company believes it is too soon to determine if any prosecutorial effects will be undertaken by the rescission of the Cole Memorandum, or if Attorney General Barr will reinstitute the Cole Memorandum or a similar guidance document for United States attorneys. The sheer size of the cannabis industry, in addition to participation by State and local governments and investors, suggests that a largescale enforcement operation would possibly create unwanted political backlash for the Department of Justice and the Trump administration.

 

As an industry best practice, despite the recent rescission of the Cole Memorandum, the Company abides by the following standard operating policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the guidance provided by the Cole Memorandum:

 

1.              Ensure that its operations are compliant with all licensing requirements as established by the applicable state, county, municipality, town, township, borough, and other political/administrative divisions;

 

2.              Ensure that its cannabis related activities adhere to the scope of the licensing obtained (for example: in the states where cannabis is permitted only for adult-use, the products are only sold to individuals who meet the requisite age requirements);

 

3.              Implement policies and procedures to ensure that cannabis products are not distributed to minors;

 

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4.              Implement policies and procedures to ensure that funds are not distributed to criminal enterprises, gangs or cartels;

 

5.              Implement an inventory tracking system and necessary procedures to ensure that such compliance system is effective in tracking inventory and preventing diversion of cannabis or cannabis products into those states where cannabis is not permitted by state law, or across any state lines in general;

 

6.              Ensure that its state-authorized cannabis business activity is not used as a cover or pretense for trafficking of other illegal drugs, is engaged in any other illegal activity or any activities that are contrary to any applicable anti-money laundering statutes; and

 

7.              Ensure that its products comply with applicable regulations and contain necessary disclaimers about the contents of the products to prevent adverse public health consequences from cannabis use and prevent impaired driving.

 

In addition, the Company conducts background checks to ensure that the principals and management of its operating subsidiaries are of good character, have not been involved with other illegal drugs, engaged in illegal activity or activities involving violence, or use of firearms in cultivation, manufacturing or distribution of cannabis. The Company will also conduct ongoing reviews of the activities of its cannabis businesses, the premises on which they operate and the policies and procedures that are related to possession of cannabis or cannabis products outside of the licensed premises, including the cases where such possession is permitted by regulation. See “Compliance and Monitoring”.

 

Although the Cole Memorandum has been rescinded, one legislative safeguard for the medical marijuana industry remains in place: Congress has passed a so-called “rider” provision in the FY 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. Consolidated Appropriations Acts to prevent the federal government from using congressionally appropriated funds to enforce federal marijuana laws against regulated medical marijuana actors operating in compliance with state and local law. The rider is known as the “Rohrbacher- Farr” Amendment after its original lead sponsors (it is also sometimes referred to as the “Rohrbacher- Blumenauer” or “Joyce-Leahy” Amendment, but it is referred to in this MD&A as “Rohrbacher-Farr”). Most recently, the Rohrbacher-Farr Amendment was included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2019, which was signed by President Trump on February 14, 2019 and funds the departments of the federal government through the fiscal year ending September 30, 2019. In signing the Act, President Trump issued a signing statement noting that the Act “provides that the Department of Justice may not use any funds to prevent implementation of medical marijuana laws by various States and territories,” and further stating “I will treat this provision consistent with the President’s constitutional responsibility to faithfully execute the laws of the United States.” While the signing statement can fairly be read to mean that the executive branch intends to enforce the CSA and other federal laws prohibiting the sale and possession of medical marijuana, the president did issue a similar signing statement in 2017 and no major federal enforcement actions followed. On September 27, 2019 the Rohrbacher-Farr Amendment was temporarily renewed through a stopgap spending bill and was similarly renewed again on November 21, 2019.  The FY 2020 omnibus spending bill was ultimately passed on December 20, 2019, making the Rohrbacher-Farr Amendment effective through September 30, 2020.  In signing the spending bill, President Trump again released a statement similar to the ones he made May 2017 and February 2019 regarding the Rohrbacher-Farr Amendment.

 

There is a growing consensus among marijuana businesses and numerous congressmen and congresswomen that guidance is not law and temporary legislative riders, such as the Rohrbacher-Farr Amendment, are an inappropriate way to protect lawful medical marijuana businesses. Numerous bills have been introduced in Congress in recent years to decriminalize aspects of state-legal marijuana trades. For FY 2019, the strategy amongst the bipartisan Congressional Marijuana Working Group in Congress, has been to introduce numerous marijuana-related appropriations amendments in the Appropriations Committee in both the House and Senate, similar to the strategy employed in FY 2018. The amendments included protections for marijuana-related businesses in states with medical and adult-use marijuana laws, as well as protections for financial institutions that provide banking services to state-legal marijuana businesses. The Company also has observed that each year more congressmen and congresswomen sign on and cosponsor marijuana legalization bills. These include the CARERS Act, REFER Act and others. While there are different perspectives on the most effective route to end federal marijuana prohibition, Congressman Blumenauer and Senator Wyden have introduced the three-bill package, Path to Marijuana Reform, which would fix the so-called Internal Revenue Service 280E provision that provides tax burdens for marijuana businesses, eliminate civil asset forfeiture and federal criminal penalties for marijuana businesses complying with state law, reduce barriers to banking, de schedule marijuana from the federal list of controlled substances, and tax and regulate marijuana.

 

Senator Booker has also introduced the Marijuana Justice Act, which would de-schedule marijuana, and in 2018 Congresswoman Barbara Lee introduced the House companion. Colorado Republican Senator Cory Gardner has

 

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reportedly secured a probable assurance from President Trump that he would sign a bill to allow states to legalize and regulate marijuana without federal intervention.

 

In light of all of this, it was anticipated that the federal government will eventually repeal the federal prohibition on cannabis and thereby leave the states to decide for themselves whether to permit regulated cannabis cultivation, production and sale, just as states are free today to decide policies governing the distribution of alcohol or tobacco. Given current political trends, however, the Company considers these developments unlikely in the near-term. For the time being, marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level, and neither the Cole Memorandum nor its rescission nor the continued passage of the Rohrbacher-Farr Amendment has altered that fact. The federal government of the United States has always reserved the right to enforce federal law regarding the sale and disbursement of medical or adult-use marijuana, even if state law sanctions such sale and disbursement. If the United States begins to enforce federal laws relating to cannabis in states where the sale and use of cannabis is currently legal, or if existing applicable state laws are repealed or curtailed, the Company’s business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects could be materially adversely affected.

 

Additionally, under United States federal law, it may potentially be a violation of federal money laundering statutes for financial institutions to take any proceeds from the sale of any Schedule I controlled substance. Due to the CSA categorization of marijuana as a Schedule I drug, federal law makes it illegal for financial institutions that depend on the Federal Reserve’s money transfer system to take any proceeds from marijuana sales as deposits. Banks and other financial institutions could be prosecuted and possibly convicted of money laundering for providing services to cannabis businesses under the United States Currency and Foreign Transactions Reporting Act of 1970 (the “Bank Secrecy Act”). Therefore, under the Bank Secrecy Act, banks or other financial institutions that provide a cannabis business with a checking account, debit or credit card, small business loan, or any other service could be charged with money laundering or conspiracy.

 

On September 26, 2019, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act of 2019 (commonly known as the “SAFE Banking Act”), which aims to provide safe harbor and guidance to financial institutions that work with legal U.S. cannabis businesses. The SAFE Banking Act is currently being reviewed by the U.S. Senate Banking Committee. While the Senate is contemplating the SAFE Banking Act, the passage of which would permit commercial banks to offer services to cannabis companies that are in compliance with state law, if Congress fails to pass the SAFE Banking Act, the Company’s inability, or limitations on the Company’s ability, to open or maintain bank accounts, obtain other banking services and/or accept credit card and debit card payments may make it difficult for the Company to operate and conduct its business as planned or to operate efficiently.

 

While there has been no change in U.S. federal banking laws to accommodate businesses in the large and increasing number of U.S. states that have legalized medical and/or adult-use marijuana, in 2014, the Department of the Treasury Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”) issued guidance to prosecutors of money laundering and other financial crimes (the “FinCEN Guidance”) and notified banks that it would not seek enforcement of money laundering laws against banks that service cannabis companies operating under state law, provided that strict due diligence and reporting standards are met. The FinCEN Guidance advised prosecutors not to focus their enforcement efforts on banks and other financial institutions that serve marijuana-related businesses so long as that business is legal in their state and none of the federal enforcement priorities referenced in the Cole Memorandum are being violated (such as keeping marijuana away from children and out of the hands of organized crime). The FinCEN Guidance also clarifies how financial institutions can provide services to marijuana-related businesses consistent with their Bank Secrecy Act obligations, including thorough customer due diligence, but makes it clear that they are doing so at their own risk. The customer due diligence steps include:

 

1.              Verifying with the appropriate state authorities whether the business is duly licensed and registered;

 

2.              Reviewing the license application (and related documentation) submitted by the business for obtaining a state license to operate its marijuana-related business;

 

3.              Requesting from state licensing and enforcement authorities available information about the business and related parties;

 

4.              Developing an understanding of the normal and expected activity for the business, including the types of products to be sold and the type of customers to be served (e.g., medical versus adult use customers);

 

5.              Ongoing monitoring of publicly available sources for adverse information about the business and related parties;

 

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6.              Ongoing monitoring for suspicious activity, including for any of the red flags described in this guidance; and

 

7.              Refreshing information obtained as part of customer due diligence on a periodic basis and commensurate with the risk.

 

With respect to information regarding state licensure obtained in connection with such customer due diligence, a financial institution may reasonably rely on the accuracy of information provided by state licensing authorities, where states make such information available.

 

Because most banks and other financial institutions are unwilling to provide any banking or financial services to marijuana businesses, these businesses can be forced into becoming “cash-only” businesses. While the FinCEN Guidance decreased some risk for banks and financial institutions considering serving the industry, in practice it has not increased banks’ willingness to provide services to marijuana businesses, and most banks continue to decline to operate under the strict requirements provided under the FinCEN guidance. This is because, as described above, the current law does not guarantee banks immunity from prosecution, and it also requires banks and other financial institutions to undertake time-consuming and costly due diligence on each marijuana business they accept as a customer.

 

The few state-chartered banks and/or credit unions that have agreed to work with marijuana businesses are limiting those accounts to small percentages of their total deposits to avoid creating a liquidity risk. Since, theoretically, the federal government could change the banking laws as it relates to marijuana businesses at any time and without notice, these credit unions must keep sufficient cash on hand to be able to return the full value of all deposits from marijuana businesses in a single day, while also keeping sufficient liquid capital on hand to serve their other customers. Those state-chartered banks and credit unions that do have customers in the marijuana industry charge marijuana businesses high fees to pass on the added cost of ensuring compliance with the FinCEN Guidance. Unlike the Cole Memorandum, however, the FinCEN Guidance from 2014 has not been rescinded.

 

The Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Stephen Mnuchin, has publicly stated that the Department was not informed of any plans to rescind the Cole Memorandum. Secretary Mnuchin stated that he does not have a desire to rescind the FinCEN Guidance. As an industry best practice and consistent with its standard operating procedures, the Company adheres to all customer due diligence steps in the FinCEN Guidance.

 

In the United States, a bill has been tabled in Congress to grant banks and other financial institutions immunity from federal criminal prosecution for servicing marijuana-related businesses if the underlying marijuana business follows state law. This bill has not been passed and there can be no assurance with that it will be passed in its current form or at all. In both Canada and the United States, transactions involving banks and other financial institutions are both difficult and unpredictable under the current legal and regulatory landscape. Legislative changes could help to reduce or eliminate these challenges for companies in the cannabis space and would improve the efficiency of both significant and minor financial transactions.

 

An additional challenge to marijuana-related businesses is that the provisions of Internal Revenue Code Section 280E are being applied by the IRS to businesses operating in the medical and adult-use marijuana industry. Section 280E prohibits marijuana businesses from deducting ordinary and necessary business expenses, forcing them to pay higher effective federal tax rates than similar companies in other industries. The effective tax rate on a marijuana business depends on how large its ratio of non-deductible expenses is to its total revenues. Therefore, businesses in the legal cannabis industry may be less profitable than they would otherwise be.

 

CBD is a product that often is derived from hemp, which contains only trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive substance found in marijuana. On December 20, 2018, President Trump signed the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (popularly known as the “2018 Farm Bill”) into law.  Until the 2018 Farm Bill became law, hemp and products derived from it, such as CBD, fell within the definition of “marijuana” under the CSA and the DEA classified hemp as a Schedule I controlled substance because hemp is part of the cannabis plant.

 

The 2018 Farm Bill defines hemp as the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of the plant with a delta-9 THC concentration of not more than 0.3% by dry weight and removes hemp from the CSA. The 2018 Farm Bill also allows states to create regulatory programs allowing for the licensed cultivation of hemp and production of hemp derived products. Hemp and products derived from it, such as CBD, may then be sold into commerce and transported across state lines provided that

 

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the hemp from which any product is derived was cultivated under a license issued by an authorized state program approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and otherwise meets the definition of hemp removed from the CSA. The introduction of hemp and products derived from it, such as CBD, in foods, beverages, and dietary supplements has not — been approved by the FDA. The FDA expects to engage in rulemaking on this subject.

 

Service Providers

 

As a result of any adverse change to the approach in enforcement of U.S. cannabis laws, adverse regulatory or political change, additional scrutiny by regulatory authorities, adverse change in public perception in respect of the consumption of marijuana or otherwise, third party service providers to the Company could suspend or withdraw their services, which may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, revenues, operating results, financial condition or prospects.

 

Ability to Access Capital

 

Given the current laws regarding cannabis at the federal law level in the United States, traditional bank financing is typically not available to United States cannabis companies. Specifically, the federal illegality of marijuana in the United States means that financial transactions involving proceeds generated by cannabis-related conduct can form the basis for prosecution under money laundering statutes, the unlicensed money transmitter statute and the Bank Secrecy Act. As a result, businesses involved in the cannabis industry often have difficulty finding a bank willing to accept their business. Banks who do accept deposits from cannabis-related businesses in the United states must do so in compliance with the Cole Memorandum and the FinCEN guidance, both discussed above.

 

The Company requires equity and/or debt financing to support on-going operations, to undertake capital expenditures or to undertake acquisitions or other business combination transactions. There can be no assurance that additional financing will be available to the Company when needed or on terms which are acceptable. The Company’s inability to raise financing through traditional banking to fund on-going operations, capital expenditures or acquisitions could limit its growth and may have a material adverse effect upon the Company’s business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects.

 

If additional funds are raised through further issuances of equity or convertible debt securities, existing Company Shareholders could suffer significant dilution, and any new equity securities issued could have rights, preferences and privileges superior to existing holders of SVS.

 

Restricted Access to Banking

 

As discussed above, the FinCEN Memorandum remains effective to this day, in spite of the fact that the 2014 Cole Memorandum was rescinded and replaced by the Sessions Memorandum. The FinCen Memorandum does not provide any safe harbors or legal defenses from examination or regulatory or criminal enforcement actions by the Department of Justice, FinCEN or other federal regulators, though. Thus, most banks and other financial institutions in the U.S. do not appear to be comfortable providing banking services to cannabis-related businesses, or relying on this guidance, which can be amended or revoked at any time by the Trump administration. In addition to the foregoing, banks may refuse to process debit card payments and credit card companies generally refuse to process credit card payments for cannabis-related businesses. As a result, the Company may have limited or no access to banking or other financial services in the U.S. The inability or limitation in the Company’s ability to open or maintain bank accounts, obtain other banking services and/or accept credit card and debit card payments may make it difficult for the Company to operate and conduct its business as planned or to operate efficiently.

 

On September 26, 2019, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act of 2019 (commonly known as the “SAFE Banking Act”), which aims to provide safe harbor and guidance to financial institutions that work with legal U.S. cannabis businesses. The SAFE Banking Act is currently being reviewed by the U.S. Senate Banking Committee. While the Senate is contemplating the SAFE Banking Act, the passage of which would permit commercial banks to offer services to cannabis companies that are in compliance with state law, if Congress fails to pass the SAFE Banking Act, the Company’s inability, or limitations on the Company’s ability, to open or maintain bank

 

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accounts, obtain other banking services and/or accept credit card and debit card payments may make it difficult for the Company to operate and conduct its business as planned or to operate efficiently.

 

Anti-Money Laundering Laws and Regulations

 

The Company is subject to a variety of laws and regulations domestically and in the U.S. that involve money laundering, financial recordkeeping and proceeds of crime, including the Bank Secrecy Act, as amended by Title III of the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT Act), Sections 1956 and 1957 of U.S.C. Title 18 (the Money Laundering Control Act), the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (Canada), as amended and the rules and regulations thereunder, the Criminal Code (Canada) and any related or similar rules, regulations or guidelines, issued, administered or enforced by governmental authorities in the U.S. and Canada. Further, under U.S. federal law, banks or other financial institutions that provide a cannabis business with a checking account, debit or credit card, small business loan, or any other service could be found guilty of money laundering, aiding and abetting, or conspiracy.

 

In the event that any of the Company’s operations, or any proceeds thereof, any dividends or distributions therefrom, or any profits or revenues accruing from such operations in the U.S. were found to be in violation of money laundering legislation or otherwise, such transactions may be viewed as proceeds of crime under one or more of the statutes noted above or any other applicable legislation. This could restrict or otherwise jeopardize the ability of the Company to declare or pay dividends, effect other distributions or subsequently repatriate such funds back to Canada. Furthermore, while there are no current intentions to declare or pay dividends on the SVS in the foreseeable future, in the event that a determination was made that the Company’s proceeds from operations (or any future operations or investments in the U.S.) could reasonably be shown to constitute proceeds of crime, the Company may decide or be required to suspend declaring or paying dividends without advance notice and for an indefinite period of time.

 

Heightened Scrutiny by Regulatory Authorities

 

For the reasons set forth above, the Company’s existing operations in the U.S., and any future operations or investments of the Company, may become the subject of heightened scrutiny by regulators, stock exchanges and other authorities in Canada. As a result, the Company may be subject to significant direct and indirect interaction with public officials. There can be no assurance that this heightened scrutiny will not in turn lead to the imposition of certain restrictions on the Company’s ability to operate or invest in any other jurisdictions, in addition to those described herein.

 

Change to government policy or public opinion may also result in a significant influence on the regulation of the cannabis industry in Canada, the United States, or elsewhere. A negative shift in the public’s perception of medical or adult-use cannabis in the United States or any other applicable jurisdiction could affect future legislation or regulation, or enforcement. Such a shift could cause state jurisdictions to abandon initiatives or proposals to legalize medical or adult-use cannabis, thereby limiting the number of new state jurisdictions into which the Company could expand. Any inability to fully implement the Company’s business strategy in the states in which the Company currently operates or in the Company’s ability to expand its business into new states, may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations. See “Risk Factors” section of this MD&A.

 

Further, violations of any federal laws and regulations could result in significant fines, penalties, administrative sanctions, convictions, or settlements arising from civil proceedings conducted by either the federal government or private citizens, or criminal charges, including, but not limited to, disgorgement of profits, cessation of business activities or divestiture. Any enforcement action against the Company or any of its licensed operating facilities could have a material adverse effect on (1) the Company’s reputation, (2) the Company’s ability to conduct business, (3) the Company’s holdings (directly or indirectly) of medical or adult-use cannabis licenses in the United States, (4) the listing or quoting of the Company’s securities on various stock exchanges, (5) the Company’s financial position, (6) the Company’s operating results, profitability, or liquidity, or (7) the market price of the Company’s publicly traded shares. In addition, it is difficult for the Company to estimate the time or resources that would be needed for the investigation of any such matters or their final resolution because the time and resources that may be necessary depend on the nature and extent of any information requested by the applicable authorities involved, and such time or resources could be substantial. See “Risk Factors”

 

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section of this MD&A. The Company’s business activities, and the business activities of its subsidiaries, while believed to be compliant with applicable U.S. state and local laws, currently are illegal under U.S. federal law.

 

Further to the indication by CDS Clearing and Depository Services Inc. (“CDS”), Canada’s central securities depository, clearing and settling trades in the Canadian equity, fixed income and money markets that it would refuse to settle trades for cannabis issuers that have investments in the U.S., the TMX Group, the owner and operator of CDS, subsequently issued a statement in August 2017 reaffirming that there is no CDS ban on the clearing of securities of issuers with cannabis-related activities in the U.S., despite media reports to the contrary and that the TMX Group was working with regulators to arrive at a solution that will clarify this matter, which would be communicated at a later time.

 

In February 2018, following discussions with the Canadian Securities Administrators and recognized Canadian securities exchanges, the TMX Group announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with The Aequitas NEO Exchange Inc., the CSE, the Toronto Stock Exchange, and the TSX Venture Exchange. The MOU outlines the parties’ understanding of Canada’s regulatory framework applicable to the rules, procedures, and regulatory oversight of the exchanges and CDS as it relates to issuers with cannabis-related activities in the U.S. The MOU confirms, with respect to the clearing of listed securities, that CDS relies on the exchanges to review the conduct of listed issuers. As a result, there is currently no CDS ban on the clearing of securities of issuers with cannabis-related activities in the U.S. However, there can be no guarantee that this approach to regulation will continue in the future. If such a ban were to be implemented at a time when the SVS are listed on a stock exchange, it would have a material adverse effect on the ability of holders of SVS to make and settle trades. In particular, the SVS would become highly illiquid as until an alternative was implemented, investors would have no ability to affect a trade of securities through the facilities of the applicable stock exchange. Curaleaf has obtained eligibility with DTC for its SVS quotation on the OTCQX and such eligibility provides another possible avenue to clear the SVS in the event of a CDS ban. Revocation of DTC eligibility or implementation by DTC of a ban on the clearing of securities of issuers with cannabis-related activities in the United States would similarly have a material adverse effect on the ability of holders of the SVS to make and settle trades.

 

Compliance and Monitoring

 

As of the date of this MD&A, the Company believes that each of its licensed operating entities (a) holds all applicable licenses to cultivate, manufacture, possess, and/or distribute cannabis in its respective state, and (b) is in good standing and in compliance with its respective state’s cannabis regulatory program. The Company is in compliance with its obligations under state law related to its cannabis cultivation, processing and dispensary licenses, other than minor violations that would not result in a material fine, suspension or revocation of any relevant license.

 

The Company uses reasonable commercial efforts to ensure that its business is in compliance with laws and applicable licensing requirements and engages in the regulatory and legislative process nationally and in every state we operate through our compliance department, government relations department, outside government relations consultants, cannabis industry groups and legal counsel.

 

The compliance department consists of our SVP of Compliance, James Shorris and Vice President, Keisha Brice and local compliance officers in our subsidiaries. Compliance officers in each operating subsidiary are charged with knowing the local regulatory process and monitoring developments and ongoing developments with their governing bodies. Each compliance officer regularly reports regulatory developments to the Company’s SVP and VP of Compliance through written and oral communications and are charged with the creation and implementation of plans regarding all regulatory developments. The Company’s SVP and VP of Compliance work with external legal advisors in the states in which the Company operates to ensure that the Company is in on-going compliance with applicable state laws.

 

The government relations department, consisting of Senior Vice President, Ed Conklin, and Vice President, Matt Harrell, work closely with Curaleaf management to develop relationships with local and state regulators, industry groups, and elected officials in order to effectively monitor and engage in the regulatory and legislative processes. The Company’s Government Relations Department develops strategies, engages legislative consultant’s, directly lobbies and works with third party groups to protect the Company’s right to operate and to advocate for legislation, regulations and oversight under which it can be successful.

 

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Although the Company believes that its business activities are compliant with applicable and state and local laws of the United States, strict compliance with State and local laws with respect to cannabis may neither absolve the Company of liability under United States federal law nor provide a defense to any federal proceeding which may be brought against the Company. Any such proceedings brought against the Company may result in a material adverse effect on the Company. The Company derives 100% of its revenues from the cannabis industry in certain States, which industry is illegal under United States federal law. Even where the Company’s cannabis-related activities are compliant with applicable State and local law, such activities remain illegal under United States federal law. The enforcement of relevant federal laws is a significant risk.

 

United States Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) enforces the laws of the United States. Crossing the border while in violation of the CSA and other related United States federal laws may result in denied admission, seizures, fines, and apprehension. CBP officers administer the United States Immigration and Nationality Act to determine the admissibility of travelers who are non-U.S. citizens into the United States. An investment in the Company, if it became known to CBP, could have an impact on a non-U.S. citizen’s admissibility into the United States and could lead to a lifetime ban on admission. Medical cannabis has been protected against enforcement by enacted legislation from the United States Congress in the form of the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment, which prevents federal prosecutors from using federal funds to impede the implementation of medical cannabis laws enacted at the state level, subject to the United States Congress restoring such funding. This amendment has historically been passed as an amendment to omnibus appropriations bills, which by their nature expire at the end of a fiscal year or other defined term. Subsequent to the issuance of Sessions Memorandum, the United States Congress passed its omnibus appropriations bill, SJ 1662, which for the fourth consecutive year contained the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment language (referred to in 2018 as the Leahy Amendment) and continued the protections for the medical cannabis marketplace and its lawful participants from interference by the Department of Justice. The Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment again was included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2019, which was signed by President Trump on February 14, 2019 and funds the departments of the federal government through the fiscal year ending September 30, 2019 and was similarly renewed again on November 21, 2019.  The FY 2020 omnibus spending bill was ultimately passed on December 20, 2019, making the Rohrbacher-Farr Amendment effective through September 30, 2020. Notably, such Amendments have always applied only to medical cannabis programs and have no effect on pursuit of recreational cannabis activities.

 

In addition to the above disclosure, please see “Risk Factors” for further risk factors associated with the operations of the Company and the Company.

 

RISK FACTORS

 

The following are certain factors relating to the business of the Company. These risks and uncertainties are not the only ones facing the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to the Company or currently deemed immaterial by the Company, may also impair the operations of the Company. If any such risks actually occur, shareholders of the Company could lose all or part of their investment and the business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects of the Company could be materially adversely affected and the ability of the Company to implement its growth plans could be adversely affected.

 

The acquisition of any of the securities of the Company is speculative, involving a high degree of risk and should be undertaken only by persons whose financial resources are sufficient to enable them to assume such risks and who have no need for immediate liquidity in their investment. An investment in the securities of the Company should not constitute a major portion of an individual’s investment portfolio and should only be made by persons who can afford a total loss of their investment. Company Shareholders should evaluate carefully the following risk factors associated with the Company’s securities, along with the risk factors described elsewhere in this MD&A.

 

Business Structure Risks

 

The Company is a holding company as all of its assets are the capital stock of its subsidiaries in each of the markets the Company operates in and/or holds licenses in the adult-use and/or medicinal cannabis marketplace in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Utah, Oregon and (awarded in February 2020) Pennsylvania; and has  no material assets other than: (i) cash on hand; and (ii) ownership of

 

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its subsidiaries, stakes in joint ventures and minority interests in certain operating companies. As a result, investors in the Company are subject to the risks attributable to its subsidiaries. As a holding company, the Company conducts substantially all of its business through its subsidiaries, which generate substantially all of its revenues. Consequently, the Company’s cash flows and ability to complete current or desirable future enhancement opportunities are dependent on the earnings of its subsidiaries and the distribution of those earnings to the Company. To the extent that the Company requires funds, and its subsidiaries and such other entities are restricted from making such distributions by applicable law, regulation or contract, or are otherwise unable to provide such funds, it could materially adversely affect the Company’s liquidity and financial condition, as well as its ability to make distributions to its shareholders. In the event of a bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization of any of the Company’s material subsidiaries, holders of indebtedness and trade creditors may be entitled to payment of their claims from the assets of those subsidiaries before the Company.

 

The Company has no earnings or dividend record, and the ability of these entities to pay dividends and other distributions will depend on their operating results and will be subject to applicable laws and regulations which require that solvency and capital standards be maintained by such companies and contractual restrictions contained in the instruments governing their debt. Dividends paid by the Company would be subject to tax and, potentially, withholdings. The Company does not anticipate paying any dividends on the Subordinate Voting Shares in the foreseeable future. Please see “Risk Factors — Anti-Money Laundering Laws and Regulations”.

 

Risks Related to Legality of Cannabis

 

Cannabis is a Controlled Substance under the United States Federal Controlled Substances Act

 

The Company is engaged directly and indirectly in the medical and adult-use cannabis industry in the U.S. where only state law permits such activities. Investors are cautioned that in the U.S., cannabis is largely regulated at the state level. To the Company’s knowledge, some form of cannabis has been legalized in 40 states and Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and Guam as of March 2020. Additional states have pending legislation regarding the same. Notwithstanding the permissive regulatory environment of cannabis at the state level, cannabis continues to be categorized as a controlled substance under the Controlled Substance Act and as such, cultivation, distribution, sale and possession of cannabis violates federal law in the U.S.

 

The Department of Justice, under the current administration, could allege that the Company has “aided and abetted” in violations of federal law by providing financing and services to its portfolio cannabis companies. Under these circumstances, the federal prosecutor could seek to seize the assets of the Company, and to recover the “illicit profits” previously distributed to shareholders resulting from any of the foregoing financing or services. In these circumstances, the Company’s operations would cease, shareholders may lose their entire investment and directors, officers and/or shareholders may be left to defend any criminal charges against them at their own expense and, if convicted, be sent to federal prison.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, as part of the Congressional omnibus-spending bill, Congress renewed, through September 30, 2020, the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment, which prohibits the Department of Justice from expending any funds for the prosecution of medical cannabis businesses operating in compliance with state and local laws. At such time, it may or may not be included in the omnibus appropriations package or a continuing budget resolution once the current continuing resolution expires.  Should the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment not be renewed upon expiration in subsequent spending bills, there can be no assurance that the federal government will not seek to prosecute cases involving medical cannabis businesses that are otherwise compliant with state law. Such potential proceedings could involve significant restrictions being imposed upon the Company or third parties, while diverting the attention of key executives. Such proceedings could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, revenues, operating results and financial condition as well as the Company’s reputation, even if such proceedings were concluded successfully in favor of the Company.

 

Violations of any federal laws and regulations could result in significant fines, penalties, administrative sanctions, convictions or settlements arising from civil proceedings conducted by either the federal government or private citizens, or criminal charges, including, but not limited to, disgorgement of profits, cessation of business activities or divestiture. This could have a material adverse effect on the Company, including its reputation and ability to conduct business, its holding (directly or indirectly) of medical and adult-use cannabis licenses in the U.S., the listing of its securities on the

 

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CSE, its financial position, operating results, profitability or liquidity or the market price of its publicly traded shares. In addition, it is difficult for the Company to estimate the time or resources that would be needed for the investigation of any such matters or its final resolution because, in part, the time and resources that may be needed are dependent on the nature and extent of any information requested by the applicable authorities involved, and such time or resources could be substantial.

 

Enforcement of Cannabis Laws Could Change

 

As a result of the conflicting views between state legislatures and the federal government regarding cannabis, investments in cannabis businesses in the U.S. are subject to inconsistent legislation and regulation. The response to this inconsistency was addressed in the Cole Memorandum acknowledging that notwithstanding the designation of cannabis as a controlled substance at the federal level in the U.S., several states have enacted laws relating to cannabis for medical purposes.

 

The Cole Memorandum outlined certain enforcement priorities for the Department of Justice relating to the prosecution of cannabis offenses. In particular, the Cole Memorandum noted that in jurisdictions that have enacted laws legalizing cannabis in some form and that have also implemented strong and effective regulatory and enforcement systems to control the cultivation, distribution, sale and possession of cannabis, conduct in compliance with those laws and regulations is less likely to be a priority at the federal level. Notably, however, the Department of Justice did not provide specific guidelines for what regulatory and enforcement systems it deemed sufficient under the Cole Memorandum standard.

 

In light of limited investigative and prosecutorial resources, the Cole Memorandum concluded that the Department of Justice should be focused on addressing only the most significant threats related to cannabis. states where cannabis had been legalized were not characterized as a high priority. In March 2017, then newly appointed Attorney General Jeff Sessions again noted limited federal resources and acknowledged that much of the Cole Memorandum had merit. However, he disagreed that it had been implemented effectively and, on January 4, 2018, Mr. Sessions issued a new memorandum that rescinded and superseded the Cole Memorandum effective immediately (the “Sessions Memorandum”). The Sessions Memorandum stated, in part, that current law reflects “Congress’ determination that cannabis is a dangerous drug and cannabis activity is a serious crime”, and Mr. Sessions directed all U.S. Attorneys to enforce the laws enacted by U.S. Congress and to follow well-established principles when pursuing prosecutions related to cannabis activities. U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions resigned on November 7, 2018. As of his resignation, Matthew Whitaker was the acting U.S. Attorney General until William Barr was appointed as the U.S. Attorney General on February 14, 2019.  In an April 10, 2019 Senate Appropriations Subcommittee meeting to discuss the Justice Department’s budget 2020, in response to a question about his position on the proposed Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States (STATES) Act, Attorney General Barr stated: “Personally, I would still favor one uniform federal rule against marijuana,” “But if there is not sufficient consensus to obtain that then I think the way to go is to permit a more federal approach so states can, you know, make their own decisions within the framework of the federal law. So we’re not just ignoring the enforcement of federal law.” The STATES Act, if it were to pass, would allow states to determine their own approaches to marijuana.  Attorney General Barr said the legislation is still being reviewed by his office but that he would “much rather... the approach taken by the STATES Act than where we currently are.” It is unclear what impact this development will have on U.S. federal government enforcement policy. The inconsistency between federal and state laws and regulations is a major risk factor.

 

As a result of the Sessions Memorandum, federal prosecutors may use their prosecutorial discretion to decide whether to prosecute cannabis activities despite the existence of state-level laws permitting such activity. No direction was given to federal prosecutors in the Sessions Memorandum as to the priority they should ascribe to such cannabis activities, and resultantly it is uncertain how active federal prosecutors will be in relation to such activities. Furthermore, the Sessions Memorandum did not discuss the treatment of medical cannabis by federal prosecutors. Under the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment, federal prosecutors are prohibited from expending federal funds against medical cannabis activities that are in compliance with state law. Dozens of U.S. Attorneys across the country have affirmed that their view of federal enforcement priorities has not changed. In Washington, Annette Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington, released a statement affirming that her office will continue to investigate and prosecute “cases involving organized crime, violent and gun threats, and financial crimes related to marijuana” and that “enforcement efforts with our federal, state, local and tribal partners focus on those who pose the greatest safety risk to the people and communities we serve.” However, in California, at least one U.S. Attorney has made comments indicating a desire to enforce the Controlled

 

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Substances Act: Adam Braverman, Interim U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California, has been viewed as a potential “enforcement hawk” after stating that the rescission of the 2013 Cole Memo “returns trust and local control to federal prosecutors” to enforce the Controlled Substances Act. Additionally, Greg Scott, the Interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California, has a history of prosecuting medical cannabis activity: his office published a statement that cannabis remains illegal under federal law, and that his office would “evaluate violations of those laws in accordance with our district’s federal law enforcement priorities and resources”. There can be no assurance that the federal government will not seek to prosecute cases involving cannabis businesses that are otherwise compliant with state law.

 

Such potential proceedings could involve significant restrictions being imposed upon the Company or third parties, while diverting the attention of key executives. Such proceedings could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business, revenues, operating results and financial condition as well as the Company’s reputation and prospects, even if such proceedings were concluded successfully in favor of the Company. In the extreme case, such proceedings could ultimately involve the prosecution of key executives of the Company or the seizure of its corporate assets.

 

Renewal of Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment Would Protect the Medical Cannabis Industry

 

The Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment, as discussed above, prohibits the Department of Justice from spending funds appropriated by Congress to enforce the tenets of the Controlled Substances Act against the medical cannabis industry in states which have legalized such activity. This amendment has historically been passed as an amendment to omnibus appropriations bills, which by their nature expire at the end of a fiscal year or other defined term. The Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment will remain in effect until September 30, 2020. At such time, it may or may not be included in the omnibus appropriations package or a continuing budget resolution, and its inclusion or non-inclusion, as applicable, is subject to political changes.

 

Market for Cannabis Could Decline due to Regulatory Changes

 

There can be no assurance that the number of states that allow the use of medicinal cannabis will increase. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that the existing states, districts and territories that permit the use of medicinal cannabis will not reverse their position.  If either of these things happens at any future time, then growth of the Company’s business may be materially impacted. The Company may not be able to achieve targeted revenue levels and may experience declining revenue as the potential market for its products and services diminishes.

 

Financing Risks

 

Risks Related to Additional Financing

 

The Company will require equity and/or debt financing to support on-going operations, to undertake capital expenditures or to undertake acquisitions or other business combination transactions. There can be no assurance that additional financing will be available to the Company when needed or on terms which are acceptable. The Company’s inability to raise financing through traditional banking to fund on-going operations, capital expenditures or acquisitions could limit its growth and may have a material adverse effect upon the Company’s business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects.

 

If additional funds are raised through further issuances of equity or convertible debt securities, existing Company Shareholders could suffer significant dilution, and any new equity securities issued could have rights, preferences and privileges superior to existing holders of Subordinate Voting Shares.

 

Restricted Access to Banking

 

In February 2014, the FinCEN bureau of the U.S. Treasury Department issued guidance (which is not law) with respect to financial institutions providing banking services to cannabis businesses, including burdensome due diligence expectations and reporting requirements. This guidance does not provide any safe harbors or legal defenses from examination or regulatory or criminal enforcement actions by the Department of Justice, FinCEN or other federal regulators. Thus, most banks and other financial institutions in the U.S. do not appear to be comfortable providing banking services to cannabis-

 

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related businesses, or relying on this guidance, which can be amended or revoked at any time by the Trump administration. In addition to the foregoing, banks may refuse to process debit card payments and credit card companies generally refuse to process credit card payments for cannabis-related businesses. As a result, the Company may have limited or no access to banking or other financial services in the U.S. The inability or limitation in the Company’s ability to open or maintain bank accounts, obtain other banking services and/or accept credit card and debit card payments may make it difficult for the Company to operate and conduct its business as planned or to operate efficiently.

 

General Regulatory and Legal Risks

 

Risk of Civil Asset Forfeiture

 

Because the cannabis industry remains illegal under U.S. federal law, any property owned by participants in the cannabis industry which are either used in the course of conducting such business, or were purchased using the proceeds of such business, could be subject to seizure by law enforcement and subsequent civil asset forfeiture. Even if the owner of the property were never charged with a crime, the property in question could still be seized and subject to an administrative proceeding by which, with minimal due process, it could be subject to forfeiture.

 

Anti-Money Laundering Laws and Regulations

 

The Company is subject to a variety of laws and regulations domestically and in the U.S. that involve money laundering, financial recordkeeping and proceeds of crime, including the Bank Secrecy Act, as amended by Title III of the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT Act), Sections 1956 and 1957 of U.S.C. Title 18 (the Money Laundering Control Act), the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (Canada), as amended and the rules and regulations thereunder, the Criminal Code (Canada) and any related or similar rules, regulations or guidelines, issued, administered or enforced by governmental authorities in the U.S. and Canada.

 

In the event that any of the Company’s operations, or any proceeds thereof, any dividends or distributions therefrom, or any profits or revenues accruing from such operations in the U.S. were found to be in violation of money laundering legislation or otherwise, such transactions may be viewed as proceeds of crime under one or more of the statutes noted above or any other applicable legislation. This could restrict or otherwise jeopardize the ability of the Company to declare or pay dividends, effect other distributions or subsequently repatriate such funds back to Canada. Furthermore, while there are no current intentions to declare or pay dividends on the Subordinate Voting Shares in the foreseeable future, in the event that a determination was made that the Company’s proceeds from operations (or any future operations or investments in the U.S.) could reasonably be shown to constitute proceeds of crime, the Company may decide or be required to suspend declaring or paying dividends without advance notice and for an indefinite period of time.

 

Lack of Access to U.S. Bankruptcy Protections

 

Because the use of cannabis is illegal under federal law, many courts have denied cannabis businesses bankruptcy protections, thus making it very difficult for lenders to recoup their investments in the cannabis industry in the event of a bankruptcy. If the Company were to experience a bankruptcy, there is no guarantee that U.S. federal bankruptcy protections would be available to the Company’s U.S. operations, which would have a material adverse effect on the Company, its lenders and other stakeholders.

 

Heightened Scrutiny by Regulatory Authorities

 

For the reasons set forth above, the Company’s existing operations in the U.S., and any future operations or investments of the Company, may become the subject of heightened scrutiny by regulators, stock exchanges and other authorities in Canada. As a result, the Company may be subject to significant direct and indirect interaction with public officials. There can be no assurance that this heightened scrutiny will not in turn lead to the imposition of certain restrictions on the Company’s ability to operate or invest in any other jurisdictions, in addition to those described herein.

 

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Further to the indication by CDS Clearing and Depository Services Inc. (“CDS”), Canada’s central securities depository, clearing and settling trades in the Canadian equity, fixed income and money markets that it would refuse to settle trades for cannabis issuers that have investments in the U.S., the TMX Group, the owner and operator of CDS, subsequently issued a statement on August 17, 2017 reaffirming that there is no CDS ban on the clearing of securities of issuers with cannabis-related activities in the U.S., despite media reports to the contrary and that the TMX Group was working with regulators to arrive at a solution that will clarify this matter, which would be communicated at a later time.

 

On February 8, 2018, following discussions with the Canadian Securities Administrators and recognized Canadian securities exchanges, the TMX Group announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with The Aequitas NEO Exchange Inc., the CSE, the Toronto Stock Exchange, and the TSX Venture Exchange. The MOU outlines the parties’ understanding of Canada’s regulatory framework applicable to the rules, procedures, and regulatory oversight of the exchanges and CDS as it relates to issuers with cannabis-related activities in the U.S. The MOU confirms, with respect to the clearing of listed securities, that CDS relies on the exchanges to review the conduct of listed issuers. As a result, there is no CDS ban on the clearing of securities of issuers with cannabis-related activities in the U.S. However, there can be no guarantee that this approach to regulation will continue in the future. If such a ban were to be implemented at a time when the Subordinate Voting Shares are listed on a stock exchange, it would have a material adverse effect on the ability of holders of Subordinate Voting Shares to make and settle trades. In particular, the Subordinate Voting Shares would become highly illiquid as until an alternative was implemented, investors would have no ability to affect a trade of securities through the facilities of the applicable stock exchange.

 

Risk of Legal, Regulatory or Political Change

 

The success of the business strategy of the Company depends on the legality of the marijuana industry. The political environment surrounding the marijuana industry in general can be volatile and the regulatory framework remains in flux. To the Company’s knowledge, some form of cannabis has been legalized in 40 states and Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and Guam as of March 2020; however, the risk remains that a shift in the regulatory or political realm could occur and have a drastic impact on the industry as a whole, adversely impacting the Company’s business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects.

 

Delays in enactment of new state or federal regulations could restrict the ability of the Company to reach strategic growth targets. The growth strategy of the Company is contingent upon certain federal and state regulations being enacted to facilitate the legalization of medical and adult-use marijuana. If such regulations are not enacted, or enacted but subsequently repealed or amended, or enacted with prolonged phase-in periods, the growth targets of the Company, and thus, the effect on the return of investor capital, could be detrimental. The Company is unable to predict with certainty when and how the outcome of these complex regulatory and legislative proceedings will affect its business and growth.

 

Further, there is no guarantee that state laws legalizing and regulating the sale and use of cannabis will not be repealed or overturned, or that local governmental authorities will not limit the applicability of state laws within their respective jurisdictions. If the federal government begins to enforce federal laws relating to cannabis in states where the sale and use of cannabis is currently legal, or if existing applicable state laws are repealed or curtailed, the Company’s business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects would be materially adversely affected. It is also important to note that local and city ordinances may strictly limit and/or restrict disbursement of marijuana in a manner that will make it extremely difficult or impossible to transact business in that jurisdiction, which may adversely affect the Company’s continued operations. Federal actions against individuals or entities engaged in the marijuana industry or a repeal of applicable marijuana legislation could adversely affect the Company and its business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

 

The Company is also aware that multiple states are considering special taxes or fees on businesses in the marijuana industry. It is a potential yet unknown risk at this time that other states are in the process of reviewing such additional fees and taxation. Should such special taxes or fees be adopted, this could have a material adverse effect upon the Company’s business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects.

 

The commercial medical and adult-use marijuana industry is in its infancy and the Company anticipates that such regulations will be subject to change as the jurisdictions in which the Company does business matures. The Company has

 

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in place a detailed compliance program headed by its VP of Compliance who oversees, maintains, and implements the compliance program and personnel. Compliance officers in each operating subsidiary are charged with knowing the local regulatory process and monitoring developments with their governing bodies. Each compliance officer regularly reports regulatory developments to the VP of Compliance or enforcement by regulators in certain States against such services arrangements through written and oral communications and is charged with the creation and implementation of plans regarding any regulatory developments. In addition to the Company’s robust legal and compliance departments, the Company also has local legal/regulatory counsel engaged in every jurisdiction in which it operates. Company’s compliance program emphasizes security and inventory control to ensure strict monitoring of cannabis and inventory from delivery by a licensed distributor to sale or disposal. Additionally, the Company has created comprehensive standard operating procedures that include detailed descriptions and instructions for monitoring inventory at all stages of development and distribution. The Company will continue to monitor compliance on an ongoing basis in accordance with its compliance program, standard operating procedures, and any changes to regulation in the marijuana industry.

 

Overall, the medical and adult-use marijuana industry is subject to significant regulatory change at both the state and federal level. The inability of the Company to respond to the changing regulatory landscape may cause it to not be successful in capturing significant market share and could otherwise harm its business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects.

 

General Regulatory and Licensing Risks

 

The Company’s business is subject to a variety of laws, regulations and guidelines relating to the manufacture, management, transportation, storage and disposal of marijuana, including laws and regulations relating to health and safety, the conduct of operations and the protection of the environment. Achievement of the Company’s business objectives are contingent, in part, upon compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and obtaining all requisite regulatory approvals. Changes to such laws, regulations and guidelines due to matters beyond the control of the Company may result in a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects.

 

The Company is required to obtain or renew further government permits and licenses for its current and contemplated operations. Obtaining, amending or renewing the necessary governmental permits and licenses can be a time-consuming process potentially involving numerous regulatory agencies, involving public hearings and costly undertakings on the Company’s part. The duration and success of the Company’s efforts to obtain, amend and renew permits and licenses are contingent upon many variables not within its control, including the interpretation of applicable requirements implemented by the relevant permitting or licensing authority. The Company may not be able to obtain, amend or renew permits or licenses that are necessary to its operations or to achieve the growth of its business. Any unexpected delays or costs associated with the permitting and licensing process could impede the ongoing or proposed operations of the Company. To the extent necessary permits or licenses are not obtained, amended or renewed, or are subsequently suspended or revoked, the Company may be curtailed or prohibited from proceeding with its ongoing operations or planned development and commercialization activities. Such curtailment or prohibition may result in a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects.

 

Several of the Company’s licenses are subject to renewal on an annual or periodic basis; however, they are generally renewed, as a matter of course, if the license holder continues to operate in compliance with applicable legislation and regulations and without any material change to its operations.

 

While the Company’s compliance controls have been developed to mitigate the risk of any material violations of any license it holds arising, there is no assurance that the Company’s licenses will be renewed by each applicable regulatory authority in the future in a timely manner. Any unexpected delays or costs associated with the licensing renewal process for any of the licenses held by the Company could impede the ongoing or planned operations of the Company and have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects.

 

The Company may become involved in a number of government or agency proceedings, investigations and audits. The outcome of any regulatory or agency proceedings, investigations, audits, and other contingencies could harm the Company’s reputation, require the Company to take, or refrain from taking, actions that could harm its operations or require Company to pay substantial amounts of money, harming its financial condition. There can be no assurance that

 

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any pending or future regulatory or agency proceedings, investigations and audits will not result in substantial costs or a diversion of management’s attention and resources or have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects.

 

Limitations on Ownership of Licenses

 

In certain states, the cannabis laws and regulation limit, not only the number of cannabis licenses issued, but also the number of cannabis licenses that one person may own. For example, in Massachusetts, no person may have an ownership interest, or control over, more than three license holders in any category -cultivation, processing or dispensing. In Maryland, the Department of Health has taken the position that the law prevents having a material ownership interest in more than one cultivation or processing license holder and more than four dispensing license holders.  In New Jersey, there are restrictions on overlapping ownership of license holders. In Florida, there are also limitations on owning more than one of the vertically integrated medical cannabis licenses offered in that state. The Company believes that, where such restrictions apply, it may still capture significant share of revenue in the market through wholesale sales, exclusive marketing relations, provision of management or support services, franchising and similar arrangement with other operators. Nevertheless, such limitations on the acquisition of ownership of additional licenses within certain states or enforcement by regulators in certain States against such services arrangements may limit the Company’s ability to grow organically or to increase its market share in such states.

 

Regulatory Action and Approvals from the Food and Drug Administration

 

The Company’s cannabis-based products are supplied to patients diagnosed with certain medical conditions. However, the Company’s cannabis-based products are not approved by the FDA as “drugs” or for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease. Accordingly, the FDA may regard any promotion of the cannabis-based products as the promotion of an unapproved drug in violation of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (“FDCA”).

 

Cannabidiol, a compound referred to as CBD is one of the non-psychotropic cannabinoids in industrial hemp from the plant species Cannabis sativa L. There has been growing interest in CBD in recent years. CBD is increasingly used as an ingredient in food and beverages, as an ingredient in dietary supplements and as an ingredient in cosmetics, thereby generating new investments and creating employment in the cultivation and processing of hemp and hemp-derived products. Pharmaceutical products with CBD as an active ingredient have also been developed, including one product approved by the FDA (Epidiolex®).  Foods and beverages, dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics containing CBD are all subject to regulation under the FDCA.   The FDA has asserted that CBD is not a lawful ingredient in foods and beverages, supplements and pharmaceuticals (unless FDA-approved), although FDA has generally refrained from taking enforcement action against those products.  CBD-containing products may also be subject to the jurisdiction of state and local health authorities.

 

In recent years, the FDA has issued letters to a number of companies selling products that contain CBD oil derived from hemp warning them that the marketing of their products violates the FDCA. FDA enforcement action against the Company could result in a number of negative consequences, including fines, disgorgement of profits, recalls or seizures of products, or a partial or total suspension of the Company’s production or distribution of its products.  Any such event could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, prospects, financial condition, and operating results.

 

On December 20, 2018, the Agricultural Improvement Act, H.R. 25 (“2018 Farm Bill”), which included the language of the Hemp Farming Act of 2018, removed industrial hemp and hemp-derived products with a THC concentration of not more than 0.3 percent (dry weight basis) from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act.  This has the effect of legalizing the cultivation of industrial hemp for commercial purposes, including the production of CBD and other cannabinoids, except for THC, subject to regulations to be developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

 

The Company sells and distributes certain products containing CBD.  There is a risk that the FDA or state or local Departments of Health will seek to stop the Company from selling its CBD products or seek to have the claims made for those products revised.

 

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Litigation

 

The Company may become threatened by a party, or otherwise become party to litigation from time to time in the ordinary course of business which could adversely affect its business. Should any litigation in which the Company becomes involved be determined against the Company, such a decision could adversely affect the Company’s ability to continue operating and the market price for the SVS. Even if the Company is involved in litigation and is successful, such litigation could redirect significant company resources.

 

Among other legal disputes, the Company is currently involved in the following proceedings:

 

Connecticut Arbitration.  Pursuant to the Second Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of Doubling Road Holdings, LLC, the holders of a majority of the Series A-2 Units of Doubling Road Holdings, LLC (collectively, the “Holders”) had the right to require that PalliaTech, Inc. or any of its affiliates purchase (the “Put Right”) all of the Series A-2 Units in exchange for shares of PalliaTech, Inc. (now Curaleaf, Inc.), the parent of PalliaTech, Inc., pursuant to a defined “Buy-Out Exchange Ratio”.  On October 25, 2018, the Holders, Curaleaf, and others entered into a Stipulation of Settlement in order to resolve a dispute with respect to the applicable Buy-Out Exchange Ratio for the Put Right.  The Stipulation of Settlement provided, among other things, that PalliaTech CT would purchase the Holders’ interests in exchange for (1) a payment of $40,142; (2) 4,755,548 SVS; and (3) the potential for additional equity in Curaleaf depending on the results of a “Settlement Second Appraisal.”  Pursuant to the Settlement Second Appraisal, dated December 12, 2019, and the terms of the Stipulation of Settlement, the Holders received 2,016,859 additional SVS.  On January 23, 2020, the Holders filed new claims in arbitration including for fraudulent inducement and breach of contract, relating primarily to a lock-up agreement that the Holders signed in connection with the Stipulation of Settlement.

 

Florida Arbitration / Litigation.  On December 10, 2018, Jayson Weisz (“Weisz”) and SRC Medical Partners, LLC (“SRC”) initiated an arbitration against PalliaTech Florida LLC.  On March 19, 2019, Weisz and SRC derivatively, on behalf of PalliaTech Florida LLC, filed a complaint against defendants Curaleaf Florida LLC, PalliaTech Florida, Inc., Joseph Lusardi, and Boris Jordan in the Complex Business Litigation Section in the Circuit Court of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit in and for Miami-Dade County, Florida. Plaintiffs’ derivative Complaint seeks the judicial dissolution of Curaleaf Florida LLC and asserts various causes of action against the defendants, including breach of contract, civil conspiracy, breach of fiduciary duty, fraudulent transfer, and a declaratory judgment appointing Robins to the Board of Managers.  On January 10, 2020, Weisz, JRF Group, and the Curaleaf entities entered into a Stipulation of Settlement pursuant to which the Company purchased JRF Group’s interest in PalliaTech Florida LLC for consideration of 1,772,062 SVS and $2,500 payable in cash.  During February, 2020, SRC, PalliaTech Florida LLC, PalliaTech Florida, Inc., and Lusardi participated in a final arbitration hearing.  The parties are currently exchanging post-hearing briefs.

 

Securities Class Action.  On August 5, 2019, a purported class action was filed against Curaleaf, Joseph Lusardi, Neil Davidson, and Jonathan Faucher in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York on behalf of persons or entities who purchased or otherwise acquired publicly traded securities of the Company from November 21, 2018 to July 22, 2019.  On January 6, 2020, an Amended Class Action Complaint was filed against the defendants.  The Amended Class Action Complaint alleges that the defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements regarding Curaleaf’s CBD products based on a July 22, 2019 letter received from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA Letter”).  According to the Amended Class Action Complaint, the FDA Letter states that several of the CBD products sold on Curaleaf’s website were “misbranded drugs” in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.  The Amended Class Action Complaint asserts claims against (1) all Defendants for alleged violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and (2) Lusardi, Davidson, and Faucher for alleged violations of Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  On March 6, 2020, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss arguing that the Amended Class Action Complaint failed to allege (1) any false or misleading statement or omission, (2) scienter, (3) any domestic transactions, or (4) control person liability.

 

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Environmental Risks

 

Environmental Regulation

 

The Company’s operations are subject to environmental regulation in the various jurisdictions in which it operates. These regulations mandate, among other things, the maintenance of air and water quality standards and land reclamation. They also set forth limitations on the generation, transportation, storage and disposal of solid and hazardous waste. Environmental legislation is evolving in a manner which will require stricter standards and enforcement, increased fines and penalties for non-compliance, more stringent environmental assessments of proposed projects and a heightened degree of responsibility for companies and their officers, directors (or the equivalent thereof) and employees. There is no assurance that future changes in environmental regulation, if any, will not adversely affect the Company’s operations.

 

Government approvals and permits are currently, and may in the future, be required in connection with the Company’s operations. To the extent such approvals are required and not obtained, the Company may be curtailed or prohibited from its proposed production of medical marijuana or from proceeding with the development of its operations as currently proposed.

 

Failure to comply with applicable laws, regulations and permitting requirements may result in enforcement actions thereunder, including orders issued by regulatory or judicial authorities causing operations to cease or be curtailed, and may include corrective measures requiring capital expenditures, installation of additional equipment, or remedial actions. The Company may be required to compensate those suffering loss or damage by reason of its operations and may have civil or criminal fines or penalties imposed for violations of applicable laws or regulations.

 

Amendments to current laws, regulations and permits governing the production of medical marijuana, or more stringent implementation thereof, could have a material adverse impact on the Company and cause increases in expenses, capital expenditures or production costs or reduction in levels of production or require abandonment or delays in development.

 

Unknown Environmental Risks

 

There can be no assurance that the Company will not encounter hazardous conditions at the facilities where it operates its businesses, including, without limitation, its medical cannabis cultivation and dispensary facilities, such as asbestos or lead, in excess of expectations that may delay the development of its businesses. Upon encountering a hazardous condition, work at the facilities of the Company may be suspended. The presence of other hazardous conditions may require significant expenditure of the Company’s resources to correct the condition. Such conditions could have a material impact on the investment returns of the Company.

 

General Business Risks

 

COVID-19 pandemic

 

The novel coronavirus commonly referred to as “COVID-19” was identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China.  On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a global health emergency, and on March 11, 2020, the spread of COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization.   On March 13, 2013, the spread of COVID-19 was declared a national emergency by President Donald Trump. The outbreak has spread throughout Europe, the Middle East and North America, causing companies and various international jurisdictions to impose restrictions such as quarantines, business closures and travel restrictions.  While these effects are expected to be temporary, the duration of the business disruptions internationally and related financial impact cannot be reasonably estimated at this time.

 

The rapid development of the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures being taken by governments and private parties to respond to it are extremely fluid.  While the Company has continuously sought to assess the potential impact of the pandemic on its financial and operating results, any assessment is subject to extreme uncertainty as to probably, severity and duration.  The Company has attempted to assess the impact of the pandemic by identifying risks in the following principle areas:

 

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·                  Mandatory Closure.   In response to the pandemic, many states and localities have implemented mandatory shut-downs of business to prevent spread of COVID-19.  While in most of the states of the Company’s operation, the Company’s  business has been deemed an “essential service”, permitting us to stay open despite the mandatory closure of non-essential businesses.   While the Company is working closely with state and local regulators to seek temporary measures that allow us to remain operational, there is no guarantee further measures may nevertheless require us to shut operations in some or all states. The Company’s ability to generate revenue would be materially impacted by any shut down of its operations.

 

·                  Customer Impact.   While the Company has not yet noticed an overall downturn in demand for its products in connection with the pandemic, if its customers become ill with COVID-19, are forced to quarantine, decide to self-quarantine or not to visit its stores or distribution points to observe “social distancing”, it may have material negative impact on demand for its products while the pandemic continues.  While the Company is seeking to implement measures, where permitted, such as “curb side” sales and delivery, to reduce infection risk to our customers, regulators may not permit such measures, or such measures may not prevent a reduction in demand.

 

·                  Supply Chain Disruption.    The Company relies on third party suppliers for equipment and services to produce its products and keep its operations going.   If its suppliers are unable to continue operating due to mandatory closures or other effects of the pandemic, it may negatively impact its own ability to continue operating.  At this time, the Company has not experienced any failure to secure critical supplies or services.  In particular, while the Company procures certain equipment, including components of its vaping and other products, from China where the pandemic has caused extensive business closures, the Company currently believes that it will be able to continue to source such products at a cost within historical ranges.   However, disruptions in our supply chain may affect our ability to continue certain aspects of the Company’s operations or may significantly increase the cost of operating its business and significantly reduce its margins.

 

·                  Staffing Disruption.     The Company is, for the time being, implementing among its staff where feasible “social distancing” measures recommended by such bodies as the Center of Disease Control, the Presidential Administration, as well as state and local governments.   The Company has cancelled non-essential travel by employees, implemented remote meetings where possible, and permitted all staff who can work remotely to do so.  For those whose duties require them to work on-site, measures have been implemented to reduce infection risk, such as reducing contact with customers, mandating additional cleaning of workspaces and hand disinfection, providing masks and gloves to certain personnel.  Nevertheless, despite such measures, the Company may find it difficult to ensure that its operations remain staffed due to employees falling ill with COVID-19, becoming subject to quarantine, or deciding not to come to come to work on their own volition to avoid infection.  At certain locations, the Company has experienced increased absenteeism due to the pandemic.   If such absenteeism increases, the Company may not be able, including through replacement and temporary staff, to continue to operate in some or all locations.

 

·                  Regulatory Backlog.  Regulatory authorities, including those that oversee the cannabis industry on the state level, are heavily occupied with their response to the pandemic.  These regulators as well as other executive and legislative bodies in the states in which we operate may not be able to provide the level of support and attention to day-to-day regulatory functions as well as to needed regulatory development and reform that they would otherwise have provided.  Such regulatory backlog may materially hinder the development of the Company’s business by delay such activities as product launches, facility openings and business acquisitions, thus materially impeding development of its business.

 

The Company is actively addressing the risk to business continuity represented by each of the above factors through the implementation of a broad range of measures throughout its structure and is re-assessing its response to the COVID-19 pandemic on an ongoing basis. The above risks individually or collectively may have a material impact on the Company’s ability to generate revenue.   Implementing measures to remediate the risks identified above may materially increase our costs of doing business, reduce our margins and potentially result in losses. While the Company is not currently in financial distress, if the Company’s financial situation materially deteriorates as a result of the impact of the pandemic, the Company could eventually be unable to meet its obligations to third parties, including observing financial covenants under the Facility, which in turn could lead to insolvency and bankruptcy of the Company.

 

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Failure to Complete Acquisitions

 

The Company currently expects to complete certain transactions in the future, including the ATG Acquisition and Grassroots Acquisition. These acquisitions are subject to a number of customary closing conditions including in certain instances, regulatory approval and may not close for a variety of reasons including if the closing conditions are not satisfied or waived, some of which may not be within the control of the Company. In addition, even if these transactions were to be completed, they may not close on terms or within the timing currently expected. If one or more of these transactions do not close or are completed pursuant to terms or timelines different than expected, it could have an adverse effect on the Company’s future capital plans and require the Company to reallocate funds.

 

Risks Related to the Senior Secured Debt Facility

 

The Facility requires the Company to satisfy certain negative covenants, including restrictions on its ability to pay dividends, to invest in non-wholly owned entities and to incur subordinated and non-subordinated debt. In addition, the Facility imposes certain financial covenants, including maintenance of minimum annual cash earnings and minimum unrestricted cash and cash equivalents. In addition, the Facility is subject to potential mandatory quarterly amortization. The amount, if any, is determined by a quarterly leverage ratio test. These covenants may prevent the Company from taking actions that it believes would be in the best interest of its business and may make it difficult for it to execute its business strategy successfully or effectively compete with businesses that are not subject to the same restrictions. The Company’s ability to comply with these covenants may be affected by economic, financial and industry conditions beyond its control, including credit or capital market disruptions. The breach of any of these covenants could result in a default that would permit the lenders under the Facility to declare all amounts outstanding to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest. There is no assurance that the Company will be able to secure additional financing to repay the Facility should cash flows from operations be insufficient to repay the indebtedness, whether it is in default or not. If the Company is unable to repay the indebtedness, the lenders could proceed against the collateral securing the indebtedness. This could have serious consequences to the Company’s financial position and results of operations and could cause it to become bankrupt or insolvent.

 

Unproven Business Strategy

 

While the Company has existing operations and is generating revenues, it plans to significantly expand its operations and staff to meet the requirements of its business initiatives.  The commercial response to the product offerings is still uncertain, and although the Company believes that its strategy incorporates advantages compared to other medical cannabis business models, if patients or consumers do not respond favorably to the Company’s products or if they take longer to develop its products or establish its customer base or it proves to be more costly than currently anticipated to develop its businesses, revenues may be adversely affected.

 

Service Providers

 

As a result of any adverse change to the approach in enforcement of U.S. cannabis laws, adverse regulatory or political change, additional scrutiny by regulatory authorities, adverse change in public perception in respect of the consumption of marijuana or otherwise, third party service providers to the Company could suspend or withdraw their services, which may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, revenues, operating results, financial condition or prospects.

 

Enforceability of Contracts

 

It is a fundamental principle of law that a contract will not be enforced if it involves a violation of law or public policy. Because cannabis remains illegal at a federal level, judges may refuse to enforce contracts in connection with activities that violate federal law, even if there is no violation of state law. There remains doubt and uncertainty that the Company will be able to legally enforce contracts it enters into if necessary. The Company cannot be assured that it will have a remedy for breach of contract, the lack of which may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, revenues, operating results, financial condition or prospects.

 

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Resale of the SVS on the CSE

 

The Company understands that almost all major securities clearing firms in the U.S. refuse to facilitate transactions related to securities of Canadian public companies involved in the marijuana industry. This is due to the fact that marijuana continues to be listed as a controlled substance under U.S. federal law, with the result that marijuana-related practices or activities, including the cultivation, possession or distribution of marijuana, are illegal under U.S. federal law. Accordingly, U.S. residents who acquire SVS as “restricted securities” may find it difficult — if not impossible — to resell such shares over the facilities of any Canadian stock exchange on which the SVS may then be listed including the CSE. It remains unclear what impact if any, this and any future actions among market participants in the U.S. will have on the ability of U.S. residents to resell any SVS that they may acquire in open market transactions.

 

Reliance on Management

 

The success of the Company is dependent upon the ability, expertise, judgment, discretion and good faith of its senior management. While employment agreements or management agreements are customarily used as a primary method of retaining the services of key employees, these agreements cannot assure the continued services of such employees. Any loss of the services of such individuals could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results, financial condition or prospects.

 

News media have reported that U.S. immigration authorities have increased scrutiny of Canadian citizens who are crossing the U.S.-Canada border with respect to persons involved in cannabis businesses in the U.S. There have been a number of Canadians barred from entering the U.S. as a result of an investment in or act related to U.S. cannabis businesses. In some cases, entry has been barred for extended periods of time. Company employees who are not U.S. citizens traveling from Canada to the U.S. for the benefit of the Company may encounter enhanced scrutiny by U.S. immigration authorities that may result in the employee not being permitted to enter the U.S. for a specified period of time. If this happens to Company employees who are not U.S. citizens, then this may reduce our ability to manage effectively our business in the U.S.  Competition.

 

The cannabis industry remains quite nascent, and so what the landscape will be in the future remains largely unknown, which in itself is a risk. Potential competitors, which in the future may include pharmaceutical companies, are also larger and better capitalized than the Company, may have longer operating histories and have significantly greater financial, technological, engineering, manufacturing, marketing and distribution resources. The market for the products that the Company offers or intends to offer is competitive.  The competition will most likely increase as more U.S. states permit the use of medicinal cannabis and new industry participants emerge. Increased competition may hinder the Company’s ability to successfully market its products and services.  The Company may not have the resources, expertise or other competitive requirements to compete successfully in the future.

 

Risks Inherent in an Agricultural Business

 

The Company’s business involves the cultivation of the cannabis plant. The cultivation of this plant is subject to agricultural risks related to insects, plant diseases, unstable growing conditions, water and electricity availability and cost, and force majeure events.  Although the Company cultivates its cannabis plants in indoor, climate controlled rooms staffed by trained personnel and in the future plans to cultivate cannabis plants in greenhouses, there can be no assurance that agricultural risks will not have a material adverse effect on the cultivation of its cannabis.  The Company may in the future cultivate cannabis plants outdoors, which would also subject it to related agricultural risks.

 

Unfavorable Publicity or Consumer Perception

 

The Company believes the adult-use and medical marijuana industries are highly dependent upon consumer perception regarding the safety, efficacy and quality of the marijuana produced. In particular, the Company’s financial performance in each state will depend on whether patients and physicians view its products as effective and safe for use. Under the laws of the states in which the Company and its affiliates operate, the participation of physicians and health care providers in the certification process is voluntary and therefore depends on a number of variables, including: medical professionals’ views as to the use of medical cannabis to treat qualifying conditions; the risks and benefits to individual patients or patient

 

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groups; the policies of particular medical practices; and patient demand. If physicians and other medical professionals do not certify patients where certification is required under state law, the Company’s business, financial position and results of operations may be negatively affected.

 

Public perception can be significantly influenced by scientific research or findings, regulatory investigations, litigation, media attention and other publicity regarding the consumption of marijuana products. There can be no assurance that future scientific research or findings, regulatory investigations, litigation, media attention or other publicity will be favorable to the marijuana market or any particular product, or consistent with earlier publicity. Future research reports, findings, regulatory investigations, litigation, media attention or other publicity that are perceived as less favorable than, or that question, earlier research reports, findings or other publicity could have a material adverse effect on the demand for adult-use or medical marijuana and on the business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows or prospects of the Company.

 

Further, adverse publicity reports or other media attention regarding the safety, efficacy and quality of marijuana in general, or associating the consumption of adult-use and medical marijuana with illness or other negative effects or events, could have such a material adverse effect. There is no assurance that such adverse publicity reports or other media attention will not arise. A negative shift in the public’s perception of cannabis in the U.S. or any other applicable jurisdiction could cause state jurisdictions to abandon initiatives or proposals to legalize medical and/or adult-use cannabis, thereby limiting the number of new state jurisdictions into which the Company could expand. Any inability to fully implement the Company’s expansion strategy may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations or prospects.

 

Product Liability

 

As a manufacturer and distributor of products designed to be ingested by humans, the Company faces an inherent risk of exposure to product liability claims, regulatory action and litigation if its products are alleged to have caused significant loss or injury. In addition, the manufacture and sale of marijuana involve the risk of injury to consumers due to tampering by unauthorized third parties or product contamination. Previously unknown adverse reactions resulting from human consumption of marijuana alone or in combination with other medications or substances could occur. As a manufacturer, distributor and retailer of adult-use and medical marijuana, or in its role as an investor in or service provider to an entity that is a manufacturer, distributor and/or retailer of adult-use or medical marijuana, the Company may be subject to various product liability claims, including, among others, that the marijuana product caused injury or illness, include inadequate instructions for use or include inadequate warnings concerning possible side effects or interactions with other substances.

 

A product liability claim or regulatory action against the Company could result in increased costs, could adversely affect the Company’s reputation with its clients and consumers generally, and could have a material adverse effect on the business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects of the Company. There can be no assurances that the Company will be able to maintain product liability insurance on acceptable terms or with adequate coverage against potential liabilities. Such insurance is expensive and may not be available in the future on acceptable terms, or at all. The inability to maintain sufficient insurance coverage on reasonable terms or to otherwise protect against potential product liability claims could prevent or inhibit the commercialization of the Company’s potential products or otherwise have a material adverse effect on the business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects of the Company.

 

Product Recalls

 

Manufacturers and distributors of products are sometimes subject to the recall or return of their products for a variety of reasons, including product defects, such as contamination, unintended harmful side effects or interactions with other substances, packaging safety and inadequate or inaccurate labeling disclosure. Such recalls cause unexpected expenses of the recall and any legal proceedings that might arise in connection with the recall. This can cause loss of a significant amount of sales. In addition, a product recall may require significant management attention. Although the Company has detailed procedures in place for testing its products, there can be no assurance that any quality, potency or contamination problems will be detected in time to avoid unforeseen product recalls, regulatory action or lawsuits. Additionally, if one of the Company’s products were subject to recall, the image of that product and the Company could be harmed. Additionally, product recalls can lead to increased scrutiny of operations by applicable regulatory agencies, requiring further management attention and potential legal fees and other expenses.

 

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Results of Future Clinical Research

 

Research in Canada, the U.S. and internationally regarding the medical benefits, viability, safety, efficacy, dosing and social acceptance of cannabis or isolated cannabinoids (such as cannabidiol (“CBD”) and THC remains in early stages. There have been relatively few clinical trials on the benefits of cannabis or isolated cannabinoids (such as CBD and THC) and future research and clinical trials may discredit the medical benefits, viability, safety, efficacy, and social acceptance of cannabis or could raise concerns regarding, and perceptions relating to, cannabis. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, prospective purchasers of the Company’s securities should not place undue reliance on such articles and reports. Future research studies and clinical trials may draw opposing conclusions to those stated in this MD&A or reach negative conclusions regarding the medical benefits, viability, safety, efficacy, dosing, social acceptance or other facts and perceptions related to cannabis, which could have a material adverse effect on the demand for the Company’s products with the potential to lead to a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects.

 

Difficulty Attracting and Retaining Personnel

 

The Company’s success depends to a significant degree upon its ability to attract, retain and motivate highly skilled and qualified personnel. Failure to attract and retain necessary technical personnel, sales and marketing personnel and skilled management could adversely affect the Company’s business. If the Company fails to attract, train and retain sufficient numbers of these highly qualified people, its prospects, business, financial condition and results of operations will be materially and adversely affected.

 

Dependence on Suppliers

 

The ability of the Company to compete and grow will be dependent on it having access, at a reasonable cost and in a timely manner, to equipment, parts and components. No assurances can be given that the Company will be successful in maintaining its required supply of equipment, parts and components. It is also possible that the final costs of the major equipment contemplated by the Company’s capital expenditure plans may be significantly greater than anticipated by the Company’s management and may be greater than funds available to the Company, in which circumstance the Company may curtail, or extend the timeframes for completing, its capital expenditure plans. This could have an adverse effect on the business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects of the Company.

 

Reliance on Inputs

 

The marijuana business is dependent on a number of key inputs and their related costs including raw materials and supplies related to growing operations, as well as electricity, water and other local utilities. Any significant interruption or negative change in the availability or economics of the supply chain for key inputs could materially impact the business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects of the Company. In addition, any restrictions on the ability to secure required supplies or utility services or to do so on commercially acceptable terms could have a materially adverse impact on the business, financial condition and operating results. Some of these inputs may only be available from a single supplier or a limited group of suppliers. If a sole source supplier was to go out of business, the Company might be unable to find a replacement for such source in a timely manner or at all. If a sole source supplier were to be acquired by a competitor, that competitor may elect not to sell to the Company in the future. Any inability to secure required supplies and services or to do so on appropriate terms and/or agreeable terms could have a materially adverse impact on the business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects of the Company.

 

Limited Market Data and Difficulty to Forecast

 

As a result of recent and ongoing regulatory and policy changes in the medical and adult-use marijuana industry, the market data available is limited and unreliable. Federal and state laws prevent widespread participation and hinder market research. Therefore, the Company must rely largely on its own market research to forecast sales as detailed forecasts are not generally obtainable from other sources at this early stage of the industry. Market research and projections by the Company of estimated total retail sales, demographics, demand, and similar consumer research are based on assumptions from limited and unreliable market data, and generally represent the personal opinions of the Company’s management

 

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team as of the date of this MD&A. A failure in the demand for its products to materialize as a result of competition, technological change or other factors could have a material adverse effect on the business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects of the Company.

 

Intellectual Property Risks

 

The Company’s ability to compete in the future partly depends on the superiority, uniqueness and value of its intellectual property and technology, including both internally developed technology and technology licensed from third parties. To the extent the Company is able to do so, in order to protect its proprietary rights, the Company will rely on a combination of trademark, copyright and trade secret laws, confidentiality agreements with its employees and third parties, and protective contractual provisions which may prove insufficient to protect the Company’s proprietary rights. Third parties may independently develop substantially equivalent proprietary information without infringing upon any proprietary technology. Third parties may otherwise gain access to the Company’s proprietary information and adopt it in a competitive manner. Any loss of intellectual property protection may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations or prospects.

 

As long as cannabis remains illegal under U.S. federal law as a Schedule I controlled substance pursuant to the CSA, the benefit of certain federal laws and protections which may be available to most businesses, such as federal trademark and patent protection regarding the intellectual property of a business, may not be available to the Company. As a result, the Company’s intellectual property may never be adequately or sufficiently protected against the use or misappropriation by third-parties. In addition, since the regulatory framework of the cannabis industry is in a constant state of flux, the Company can provide no assurance that it will ever obtain any protection of its intellectual property, whether on a federal, state or local level. While many states do offer the ability to protect trademarks independent of the federal government, patent protection is wholly unavailable on a state level, and state-registered trademarks provide a lower degree of protection than would federally-registered marks.

 

Constraints on Marketing Products

 

The development of the Company’s business and operating results may be hindered by applicable restrictions on sales and marketing activities imposed by government regulatory bodies. The regulatory environment in the U.S. limits companies’ abilities to compete for market share in a manner similar to other industries. If the Company is unable to effectively market its products and compete for market share, or if the costs of compliance with government legislation and regulation cannot be absorbed through increased selling prices for its products, the Company’s sales and results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

Fraudulent or Illegal Activity by Employees, Contractors and Consultants

 

The Company is exposed to the risk that its employees, independent contractors and consultants may engage in fraudulent or other illegal activity. Misconduct by these parties could include intentional, reckless and/or negligent conduct or disclosure of unauthorized activities to the Company that violates: (i) government regulations; (ii) manufacturing standards; (iii) federal and provincial healthcare fraud and abuse laws and regulations; or (iv) laws that require the true, complete and accurate reporting of financial information or data. It may not always be possible for the Company to identify and deter misconduct by its employees and other third parties, and the precautions taken by the Company to detect and prevent this activity may not be effective in controlling unknown or unmanaged risks or losses or in protecting the Company from governmental investigations or other actions or lawsuits stemming from a failure to be in compliance with such laws or regulations. If any such actions are instituted against Company, and it is not successful in defending itself or asserting its rights, those actions could have a significant impact on the Company’s business, including the imposition of civil, criminal and administrative penalties, damages, monetary fines, contractual damages, reputational harm, diminished profits and future earnings, and curtailment of the Company’s operations, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects.

 

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Information Technology Systems and Cyber-Attacks

 

The Company’s operations depend, in part, on how well it and its suppliers protect networks, equipment, information technology (“IT”) systems and software against damage from a number of threats, including, but not limited to, cable cuts, damage to physical plants, natural disasters, intentional damage and destruction, fire, power loss, hacking, computer viruses, vandalism and theft. The Company’s operations also depend on the timely maintenance, upgrade and replacement of networks, equipment, IT systems and software, as well as pre-emptive expenses to mitigate the risks of failures. Any of these and other events could result in information system failures, delays and/or increase in capital expenses.

 

In addition, the Company collects and stores personal information about its patients and is responsible for protecting that information from privacy breaches. A privacy breach may occur through procedural or process failure, information technology malfunction, or deliberate unauthorized intrusions. Theft of data for competitive purposes, particularly patient lists and preferences, is an ongoing risk whether perpetrated via employee collusion or negligence or through deliberate cyber-attack. Any such theft or privacy breach would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The Company has not experienced any material losses to date relating to cyber-attacks or other information security breaches, but there can be no assurance that the Company will not incur such losses in the future. The Company’s risk and exposure to these matters cannot be fully mitigated because of, among other things, the evolving nature of these threats. As a result, cyber security and the continued development and enhancement of controls, processes and practices designed to protect systems, computers, software, data and networks from attack, damage or unauthorized access is a priority. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the Company may be required to expend additional resources to continue to modify or enhance protective measures or to investigate and remediate any security vulnerabilities.

 

Security Breaches

 

Given the nature of the Company’s products and its lack of legal availability outside of channels approved by the government of the U.S., as well as the concentration of inventory in its facilities, there remains a risk of shrinkage as well as theft. If there was a breach in security systems and the Company becomes victim to a robbery or theft, the loss of cannabis plants, cannabis oils, cannabis flowers and cultivation and processing equipment or if there was a failure of information systems or a component of information systems, it could, depending on the nature of any such breach or failure, adversely impact the Company’s reputation, business continuity and results of operations. A security breach at one of the Company’s facilities could expose the Company to additional liability and to potentially costly litigation, increase expenses relating to the resolution and future prevention of these breaches and may deter potential patients from choosing the Company’s products.

 

Reliance on Management Services Agreements with Subsidiaries and Affiliates

 

The Company’s subsidiaries and other affiliates engage in the medicinal cannabis business through management services agreements entered into with state-licensed entities.  Under such agreements, its subsidiaries and affiliates perform a number of services, including cultivation, growing and handling of marijuana plants, trimming, curing and packaging of dry flower, patient advisory, lab and scientific research services, consultation on regulatory issues and a variety of management functions.  In exchange for providing these services, the Company’s subsidiaries and affiliates receive management fees which are a key source of revenue. Payment of such fees is dependent on the continuing validity and enforceability of the relevant management services agreements.  If such agreements are found to be invalid or unenforceable, or are terminated by the counterparty, this could have a material adverse effect on the business, prospects, financial condition, and operating results.

 

Website Accessibility

 

Internet websites are visible by people everywhere, not just in jurisdictions where the activities described therein are considered legal. As a result, to the extent the Company sells services or products via web-based links targeting only jurisdictions in which such sales or services are compliant with state law, the Company may face legal action in other

 

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jurisdictions which are not the intended object of any of the Company’s marketing efforts for engaging in any web-based activity that results in sales into such jurisdictions deemed illegal under applicable laws.

 

High Bonding and Insurance Coverage

 

There is a risk that a greater number of state regulatory agencies will begin requiring entities engaged in certain aspects of the business or industry of legal marijuana to post a bond or significant fees when applying, for example, for a dispensary license or renewal as a guarantee of payment of sales and franchise tax. The Company is not able to quantify at this time the potential scope for such bonds or fees in the states in which it currently or may in the future operate. Any bonds or fees of material amounts could have a negative impact on the ultimate success of the Company’s business.

 

The Company’s business is subject to a number of risks and hazards generally, including adverse environmental conditions, accidents, labor disputes and changes in the regulatory environment. Such occurrences could result in damage to assets, personal injury or death, environmental damage, delays in operations, monetary losses and possible legal liability.

 

Although the Company maintains insurance to protect against certain risks in such amounts as it considers to be reasonable, its insurance does not cover all the potential risks associated with its operations. The Company may also be unable to maintain insurance to cover these risks at economically feasible premiums. Insurance coverage may not continue to be available or may not be adequate to cover any resulting liability. Moreover, insurance against risks such as environmental pollution or other hazards encountered in the operations of the Company is not generally available on acceptable terms. The Company might also become subject to liability for pollution or other hazards which may not be insured against or which the Company may elect not to insure against because of premium costs or other reasons. Losses from these events may cause the Company to incur significant costs that could have a material adverse effect upon its business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects.

 

Risks of Leverage

 

Although the Company will seek to use leverage in connection with its investments in a manner it believes is prudent, such leverage will increase the exposure of an investment to adverse economic factors such as downturns in the economy or deterioration in the condition of the investment. If the Company defaults on unsecured indebtedness, the terms of the loan may require the Company to repay the principal amount of the loan and any interest accrued thereon in addition to heavy penalties that may be imposed. Because the Company may engage in financings where several investments are cross-collateralized, multiple investments may be subject to the risk of loss. As a result, the Company could lose its interest in performing investments in the event such investments are cross-collateralized with poorly performing or nonperforming investments.

 

In addition to leveraging the Company investments, the Company may borrow funds in its own name for various purposes and may withhold or apply from distributions amounts necessary to repay such borrowings. The interest expense and such other costs incurred in connection with such borrowings may not be recovered by income from investments purchased by the Company. If investments fail to cover the cost of such borrowings, the value of the investments held by the Company would decrease faster than if there had been no such borrowings. Additionally, if the investments fail to perform to expectation, the interests of investors in the Company could be subordinated to such leverage, which will compound any such adverse consequences.

 

Future Acquisitions or Dispositions

 

Material acquisitions, dispositions and other strategic transactions involve a number of risks, including: (i) potential disruption of the Company’s ongoing business; (ii) distraction of management; (iii) the Company may become more financially leveraged; (iv) the anticipated benefits and cost savings of those transactions may not be realized fully or at all or may take longer to realize than expected; and (v) loss or reduction of control over certain of the Company’s assets. Additionally, the Company may issue additional Subordinate Voting Shares in material amounts which would dilute the current shareholders’ holding in the Company or indirect holdings in the Company.

 

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The presence of one or more material liabilities of an acquired company that are unknown to the Company at the time of acquisition could have a material adverse effect on the business, results of operations, prospects and financial condition of the Company. A strategic transaction may result in a significant change in the nature of the Company’s business, operations and strategy. In addition, the Company may encounter unforeseen obstacles or costs in implementing a strategic transaction or integrating any acquired business into the Company’s operations.

 

Management of Growth

 

The Company may be subject to growth-related risks including capacity constraints and pressure on its internal systems and controls. The ability of the Company to manage growth effectively will require it to continue to implement and improve its operational and financial systems and to expand, train and manage its employee base. The inability of the Company to deal with this growth may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects.

 

Performance Not Indicative of Future Results

 

The prior investment and operational performance of the Company is not indicative of the future operating results of the Company. There can be no assurance that the historical operating results achieved by the Company or its affiliates will be achieved by the Company, and the Company’s performance may be materially different.

 

Financial Projections May Prove Materially Inaccurate or Incorrect

 

The Curaleaf or Company financial estimates, projections and other forward-looking information or statements included in this MD&A are based on assumptions of future events that may or may not occur, which assumptions may not be disclosed in this MD&A. Shareholders of the Company should inquire of the Company and become familiar with the assumptions underlying any estimates, projections or other forward-looking information or statements. Projections are inherently subject to varying degrees of uncertainty and their achievability depends on the timing and probability of a complex series of future events. There is no assurance that the assumptions upon which these projections are based will be realized. Actual results may differ materially from projected results for a number of reasons including increases in operation expenses, changes or shifts in regulatory rules, undiscovered and unanticipated adverse industry and economic conditions, and unanticipated competition. Accordingly, the Company Shareholders should not rely on any projections to indicate the actual results the Company might achieve.

 

Conflicts of Interest

 

Conflicts of interest may arise as a result of the directors, officers and promoters of the Company also holding positions as directors or officers of other companies. They also invest and may invest in businesses, including in the cannabis sector, that compete directly or indirectly with the Company or act as customers or suppliers of the Company. Some of the individuals that are directors and officers of the Company have been and will continue to be engaged in the identification and evaluation of assets, businesses and companies on their own behalf and on behalf of other companies, and situations may arise where the directors and officers of the Company will be in direct competition with the Company. Conflicts, if any, will be subject to the procedures and remedies provided under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia).

 

To the best of the Company’s knowledge, other than as disclosed below and elsewhere in this MD&A, there are no known existing or potential material conflicts of interest among the Company or a subsidiary of the Company and a director or officer of the Company or a subsidiary of the Company as a result of their outside business interests except that: (i) certain of the Company’s or its subsidiaries’ directors and officers serve as directors and officers of other companies, and therefore it is possible that a conflict may arise between their duties to the Company and their duties as a director or officer of such other companies, and (ii) certain of the Company’s or its subsidiaries’ directors and officers have portfolio investments consisting of minority stakes in businesses that may compete directly or indirectly with the Company or act as a customer of, or supplier to, the Company.

 

The Company has entered into a merger agreement for the acquisition of Cura Partners, a corporation in which Mr. Boris Jordan, a Principal Shareholder and Executive Chairman of the Company, holds an indirect interest. See the “Proposed Transactions - Cura Partners, Inc., an Oregon corporation (“Cura” or “Select”)” section of this MD&A.

 

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Tax Risks

 

Section 280E of the Code, as amended prohibits businesses from deducting certain expenses associated with trafficking controlled substances (within the meaning of Schedule I and II of the CSA). The IRS has invoked Section 280E in tax audits against various cannabis businesses in the U.S. that are permitted under applicable state laws. Although the IRS issued a clarification allowing the deduction of certain expenses, the scope of such items is interpreted very narrowly, and the bulk of operating costs and general administrative costs are not permitted to be deducted. While there are currently several pending cases before various administrative and federal courts challenging these restrictions, there is no guarantee that these courts will issue an interpretation of Section 280E favorable to cannabis businesses. Given these facts, the impact of any such challenge cannot be reliably estimated; however, it may be significant to the financial condition and/or the overall operations of the Company.

 

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