The MiningNewsWire Podcast

Global Payout, Inc. (OTC: GOHE) Identifying Key Market Opportunities Amidst Fintech Revolution

Financial technology is currently making new era advances, providing innovative, accessible solutions for entrepreneurs and small businesses. As part of this movement, Global Payout, Inc. (OTC: GOHE) has created a flexible platform for dealing with finance across a business’s infrastructure, as well as a specialist payment system for high-risk businesses. Glance Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB: GLNNF) has produced a mobile phone payment system that is secure, simple to use, and helps local businesses reach their customer base. MassRoots Retail (OTCQB: MSRT) uses technological solutions to help businesses develop links with consumers and is moving into financial technology through the development of a cryptocurrency. Support company mCig, Inc. (OTC: MCIG) has set up a cryptocurrency consulting division to help with the spread of this technology, as well as investing in state-of-the-art ATMs. Medical Cannabis Payment Solutions (OTC: REFG) has provided retailers with a secure payment processing system that helps to automate financial processes such as tax collection and sales tracking.

Hammer Fiber Optics Holdings Corp. (OTCQB: HMMR) Expanding in the Cloud with Innovative IaaS Services

Telecommunications companies are under threat (http://nnw.fm/BrM3f) from over-the-top (OTT) services that enable consumers to communicate over the internet via streaming content and apps such as Skype, WhatsApp and Viber. These services currently handle over 80 percent of messaging traffic, and more than a third of all global voice traffic is channeled through Skype. This astounding level of competition demands that telecommunications companies focus on modernizing their operations and creating strategies to develop new products or services if they hope to achieve sustainable growth. One of the companies at the forefront of innovative strategy implementation is Hammer Fiber Optics Holdings Corporation (OTCQB: HMMR), a telecommunications company investing in the future of wireless technology and fiber optics. Other significant players in this industry include Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ), Amazon.com, Inc. (AMZN), Alphabet Inc. (GOOG) and Comcast Corporation (CMCSA).

Lithium Chile Inc. (TSX.V: LITH) (OTC: LTMCF) Gears Up to Exploit Lithium Market Imbalances

Venture capitalists have been placing enormous bets on lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. These high-tech batteries now power everything from smart phones and power tools to electric vehicles. Demand for lithium is certain to surge as vehicles become greener, new devices flourish and electricity becomes cleaner. In a testament to the immense opportunity created by the batteries’ versatility, venture capital firms have already pumped a record $1 billion-plus into battery technology this year, more than double all of last year’s total. Surging demand and inadequate market supply have intensified the hunt for new sources of this critical mineral by Lithium Chile, Inc. (TSX-V: LITH) (OTC: LTMCF) and other interested mining companies such as Albemarle Corp. (NYSE: ALB), Lithium Americas Corp. (TSX: LAC) (NYSE: LAC), FMC Corporation (NYSE: FMC) and Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (NYSE: SQM).

Choom Holdings Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) Scales Up Production Capacity Ahead of the Anticipated Recreational Cannabis Legalization in Canada

For the very first time, a developed country stands at the precipice of legalizing recreational cannabis. Despite a slight delay from the original July 2018 legalization goal, industry analysts agree that Canada is on course to fully legalize recreational marijuana in August or September of this year, clearing the way for adults aged 18 and over to legally purchase the drug from licensed dispensaries across the nation. For companies like Choom Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF), Aurora Cannabis, Inc. (TSX: ACB) (OTCQX: ACBFF), Namaste Technologies Inc. (CSE: N), Emerald Health Therapeutics, Inc. (TSXV: EMH) (OTCQX: EMHTF) and The Supreme Cannabis Company, Inc. (TSXV: FIRE) (OTC: SPRWF), this unprecedented regulatory shift is likely to unleash huge opportunities across multiple industry sectors, most notably cultivation and retail operations.

Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQX: LXRP) Transforms Drug Delivery Methods

Most people who try to quit smoking cigarettes will fail. Why? Scientific research shows that the overwhelming culprit is nicotine. Nicotine holds such an addictive power over smokers, because it arrives in the brain so quickly — smoking delivers nicotine even faster than an injection, one researcher notes (http://nnw.fm/uunO1). While people know that smoking is a preventable killer, they also know that quitting is far easier said than done. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products such as nicotine gums, lozenges, sprays, sublingual tablets and transdermal patches dominate the multibillion-dollar global smoking cessation and nicotine de-addiction market. However, all commercial forms of NRT have different levels of efficacy and variable rates of nicotine absorption, as noted in an article published by the National Institutes of Health. Enter drug delivery platform innovator Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQX: LXRP), which recently announced a significant breakthrough in alternative nicotine delivery technology that was first proven effective in cannabinoid or CBD delivery. Other biotechnology companies conducting research in similar arenas include GW Pharmaceuticals Plc (NASDAQ: GWPH), CV Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB: CVSI), 22nd Century Group, Inc. (NYSE American: XXII) and Zynerba Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZYNE).

Choom Holdings Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) Set to Exploit New Market Opportunity in Canada

North American cannabis markets have achieved tremendous growth in recent years, and that trend shows no sign of slowing down. Cannabis research firm ArcView has called for an annualized growth rate of 26 percent through 2021, as the burgeoning industry benefits from growing popular support and regulatory changes. Perhaps the most notable of these pending amendments is Canada’s planned nationwide legalization of recreational cannabis. Canadian Health Minister Ginette Peitipas Taylor has stoked optimism regarding an August or September 2018 official launch date for recreational cannabis across Canada. Choom Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB: CHOOF) (CSE: CHOO), with its growing portfolio of four late-stage licensed producer applicants, is primed to pounce on this new market opportunity. Through an aggressive acquisition strategy and strong commitment to developing national retail distribution, Choom has quickly positioned itself as a major player among other North American cannabis industry mainstays like Cronos Group, Inc. (TSX: CRON) (NASDAQ: CRON), Canopy Growth Corporation (TSX: WEED) (OTC: TWMJF), Aphria, Inc. (TSX: APH) (OTCQB: APHQF) and Hiku Brands Company, Ltd. (CSE: HIKU) (OTC: DJACF).

Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) to Delay Earnings Release Until April 30, 2018

Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) (“Sunniva” or the “Company”) announced today that it will delay its fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2017 earnings release and the subsequent earnings call, previously scheduled for April 24, 2018 and April 25, 2018, respectively. The company now intends to release its results on April 30, 2018, after markets close. The delay is required for the company’s auditors to complete their final audit procedures.

Choom Holdings Inc.’s (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) Seasoned Leadership Team Prepares for Mounting Cannabis Demand in Canada

The legalization of recreational cannabis is set to make the Canadian cannabis industry worth billions of dollars. Those companies that can navigate the arduous licensing processes will be in a position to make the most of this opportunity. Choom Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) has built a strong leadership team to meet this challenge while preparing the company for cultivation and retails sales to meet regulatory needs. Aurora Cannabis, Inc. (TSX: ACB) (OTCQX: ACBFF) is one of the largest licensed medical growers and is expanding in preparation for the change in the law, acquiring cannabis related companies and striking deals with others. Namaste Technologies (CSE: N) is showing a different approach to cannabis retail through its ecommerce platform and telemedicine portal. Companies such as Emerald Health Therapeutics, Inc. (TSXV: EMH) (OTC: EMHTF) are partnering with Village Farms to more quickly establish growing facilities that meet regulatory standards. And the Supreme Cannabis Company, Inc. (TSXV: FIRE) (OTC: SPRWF) is planning annual production capacity provide product for retail from their leading-edge production facilities.

Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQX: LXRP) Achieves Significant Breakthrough in Alternative Nicotine Delivery Technology

Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (OTCQX: LXRP) (CSE: LXX) (the “Company” or “Lexaria”), a drug delivery platform innovator, is pleased to announce positive topline results upon completion of its first ingestible nicotine in vivo (animal) absorption study. Lexaria is pursuing the use of its patented DehydraTECH™ technology as a possible new nicotine delivery method, an edible dose absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, with potential both as a nicotine replacement therapy as well as an alternative product format for regular tobacco users.

QMC Quantum Minerals Corp. (TSX.V: QMC) (FSE: 3LQ) (OTC: QMCQF) Strongly Positioned as Lithium Demand Rises Globally

A January report from Zion Market Research projects the global lithium-ion battery market, worth around $31 billion in 2016 and dominated by Asia-Pacific producers such as China, is on track to grow at a CAGR of 13.7 percent through 2022, ballooning to over $67.6 billion. Australia, Chile, Argentina and China are responsible for the lion’s share of global lithium production (around 93 percent) — about half of which is currently consumed by battery production. Prices per ton for the two main types of lithium (hydroxide and carbonate) have jumped from around $6,500 in 2015 to recent highs of more than $20,000. UBS Securities also recently projected that lithium demand will continue to stay high through 2024, citing primary drivers such as the burgeoning EV (electric vehicle) market, which is projected to grow at a whopping 28.3 percent through 2026. All of this is extremely bullish news for lithium producers, whether we are talking relatively small up-and-comers such as British Columbia-based QMC Quantum Minerals Corp. (TSX.V: QMC) (FSE: 3LQ) (OTC: QMCQF) and Nemaska Lithium, Inc. (TSX: NMX) (OTC: NMKEF), or sector heavyweights such as Chile’s Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE: SQM), Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) and FMC Corporation (NYSE: FMC).

Victory Square Technologies Inc. (CSE: VST) (OTC: VSQTF) (FRANKFURT: 6F6) (WKN: A2AKL8) Brings Blockchain to New Industries

The freelance employment market now comprises 34 percent of the United States workforce, according to a recent report, with freelance workers contributing approximately $1.4 trillion to the nation’s economy. Intrinsically connected with today’s freelance market, digital services has a compound annual growth rate of 6 percent and may be poised to become one of the next global economic drivers. Blockchain is a revolutionary technology that has the potential to fuel the growth of the digital freelance services market by enabling secure, transparent and rapid transactions. Companies bringing “Blockchain” to new industries include Bitcoin Investment Trust (OTC: GBTC), MGT Capital Investments, Inc. (OTCQB: MGTI), HIVE Blockchain Technologies Ltd. (OTC: HVBTF) (TSX-V: HIVE), Global Blockchain Technologies Corp. (OTC: BLKCF) (CSE: BLOC) and Victory Square Technologies, Inc. (OTC: VSQTF) (CSE: VST).

SinglePoint, Inc. (SING) Wholly Owned Subsidiary SingleSeed Launches New Consumer-Facing Website Driving Sales of CBD-Based Products Nationally

SinglePoint Inc. (OTCQB:SING) announces the official launch of the freshly revamped SingleSeed.com website, focused on selling cannabidiol (CBD) based products direct to consumer. A subsidiary of SinglePoint, SingleSeed has been actively operating in the cannabis space since 2014. Interest in CBD has increased tremendously over the years, and the CBD market is projected to hit $2.1 Billion by 2020, according to Forbes. SingleSeed is looking to capitalize in the space by creating and distributing hemp-based CBD products.

Victory Square Technologies, Inc. (OTC: VSQTF) (CSE: VST) Positioned at the Forefront of Virtual Reality Technology

Ever since it was introduced five years ago, virtual reality (VR) technology has been underwhelming due to the lack of content and the exuberant costs of headsets like Oculus. But this year, the VR market could grow by 25 percent, according to the Consumer Technology Association, thanks to new products announced by Google and others in the tech world. VR enthusiasts are also predicting that Steven Spielberg’s newest film, which depicts a futuristic VR universe, could push the technology into mainstream. However, the biggest boost to VR technology potentially comes from the integration of blockchain technology. This is where blockchain companies could bring the true potential of VR into life. Companies at the forefront of this technology include Victory Square Technologies, Inc. (OTC: VSQTF) (CSE: VST), 360 Blockchain, Inc. (CSE: CODE), Hashchain Technology, Inc. (TSX-V: KASH), BTCS, Inc. (OTC: BTCS), and Marathon Patent Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: MARA).

SinglePoint, Inc. (SING) LastMile Delivery Platform Will Enable SMBs and Cannabis Delivery Businesses to Effectively Manage Deliveries; Submits to Apple and Google Play

SinglePoint (OTCQB: SING) announces LastMile Delivery, a platform giving small businesses and cannabis delivery companies a solution to efficiently manage deliveries. This is the first app launched under SinglePoint’s joint venture with AppSwarm (OTC: SWRM). The two companies have closely worked together to define and launch a scalable service geared toward providing an agnostic platform for delivery businesses to accept orders, locate drivers and keep records of each delivery every step of the way, from initial manifest to completion of delivery product. The application is currently under review, and it is anticipated it will be approved for beta testing in app stores soon. Once official acceptance occurs, SinglePoint and AppSwarm will launch beta testing, implement feedback and launch the production service. The companies estimate production should occur within 45 to 60 days.

Choom Holdings Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) Prepares to Meet Retail Market Demand in Canada

Recreational cannabis will soon be legal in Canada for adults, but selling and buying the pungent herb won’t be as simple as some presume it will be. Regulations governing the cultivation, production, packaging and sale of cannabis are still being refined as Canadian lawmakers at different levels of government tackle unique differences between provinces and local jurisdictions. One thing is certain, however: a cannabis retail explosion is coming, and cannabis companies ready for the surge will reap the benefits when Canada’s recreational marketplace officially opens for business. Cannabis retail brand Choom™ Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) is preparing to meet the demands of this market with a strategic blend of product and consumer experience, while Hiku Brands Company. Ltd. (CSE: HIKU) (OTC: DJACF) (DJACF Profile) steadies itself as a lifestyle cannabis brand. Canada’s top cultivators, Canopy Growth Corporation (TSX: WEED) (OTC: TWMJF); Aurora Cannabis, Inc. (TSX: ACB) (OTCQX: ACBFF); and ABcann Global (TSX-V: ABCN) (OTCQB: ABCCF) (ABCCF Profile) are also exploring getting in the game.

SinglePoint, Inc. (SING) Acquires ShieldSaver, Expanding Blockchain Technology Development into the Automotive Industry

SinglePoint Inc. (OTCQB:SING) (“the Company”) announces the acquisition of ShieldSaver, which expands the Company’s blockchain initiatives into the automotive industry in an exciting way.

ShieldSaver is a technology company disrupting the automotive repair and maintenance industry. A trojan horse within the automotive industry, ShieldSaver has unique permissions—through contracts with multiple companies—to enter locations that are typically off limits, obtain critical vehicle data at those locations, and then make contact with vehicle owners regarding needed repairs on their cars. For instance, ShieldSaver is able to access vehicles parked in airport lots at Sacramento International Airport, Denver International and others; assess potential repair needs for those vehicles; and then leave information regarding the vehicle’s issues, along with ShieldSaver company contact information, for the vehicle owners. This is something that, currently, no other company is able to do.

Global Payout, Inc. (GOHE) Employs Blockchain Technology to Provide Efficient Payment Processing Systems

As blockchain becomes better established, companies across a wide range of industries are finding ways to benefit from the technology. Payment solutions company Global Payout, Inc. (GOHE) is providing blockchain services for logistics, payment, and high-risk businesses through a set of subsidiaries. Nvidia Corporation (NVDA) is seeing a period of growth as demand for its processing hardware rises to support blockchain software. Shopping chain Walmart, Inc. (WMT) has taken out a patent for blockchain-based package tracking and is working with IBM on blockchain food supply chains. United Parcel Service, Inc. (UPS) has also taken an interest in using the technology to track deliveries, investing in the future through the Blockchain in Trucking Alliance, and even oil giant BP plc (BP) has a pilot program to explore how blockchain could improve energy supplies and trades.

Choom Holdings Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) Continues to Build its Brand Ahead of Canadian Legalization

With legal recreational cannabis coming to Canada later this year, companies are making the most of the last few months to prepare for the challenge of a new and largely brand-free market. Choom Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) is building a brand upon retail outlets and a slice of cannabis history, hoping to get the attention of existing and new curious consumers. Medical cannabis company OrganiGram Holdings, Inc. (TSX-V: OGI) (OTCQB: OGRMF) is expanding its operations, using larger growing rooms and more staff to ensure supplies when the law changes. Aphria, Inc. (TSX: APH) (OTCQB: APHQF) is also pursuing a growth strategy, using targeted investment and collaborations to reach a larger consumer base. Hydropothecary Corp. (TSX-V: THCX) is using the expertise of specialist companies, including Segra’s tissue culture propagation technique and Shopify’s expertise in building ecommerce sites. Meanwhile, The Supreme Cannabis Company, Inc. (TSX-V: FIRE) (OTC: SPRWF) is looking beyond Canada, with an investment deal to bring in cannabis oils from Lesotho.

SinglePoint, Inc. (SING) Builds Diverse Portfolio in the Blockchain Space

As investors enter the second quarter looking for signs of growth sectors, cryptocurrencies and blockchain-related markets remain at the top of the list in potential. In particular, the advantages of blockchain technologies and their secure, immutable shared ledgers are rapidly gaining recognition in the international trade and finance, security, gaming and healthcare sectors. Several companies are advancing programs to educate the broader investing public about blockchain technology. Those companies include SinglePoint, Inc. (SING), which has been aggressively making strategic acquisitions and building a diverse portfolio in the blockchain space. Other public companies pursuing opportunities in the expanding blockchain sector include Longfin Corp. (LFIN), Accenture PLC (ACN), Marathon Patent Group, Inc. (MARA) and Overstock.com, Inc. (OSTK).

Choom Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) Advances in Cannabis Industry through Supply Agreement

With recreational cannabis only months away from legalization in Canada, companies are racing to prepare for the new market. For many, this means partnerships, supply agreements, and external investment. Choom Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) has received a substantial investment from ABcann Global to develop its high-end retail brand and growing facilities. Aurora Cannabis, Inc. (TSX: ACB) (OTCQX: ACBFF) has entered into a supply agreement with Shoppers Drug Mart and invested in Liquor Stores N.A. Ltd. to support expansion in both the medical and recreational sectors, and OrganiGram Holdings, Inc. (TSX.V: OGI) (OTCQB: OGRMF) inked a deal with TGS Colorado, providing access to technology and designs not available to other Canadian companies. The Hydropothecary Corporation (TSX.V: THCX) struck a deal with the Société des alcools du Québec, while The Supreme Cannabis Company, Inc. (TSX.V: FIRE) (OTC: SPRWF) has invested $3 million in BlissCo, a new producer. Across the industry, such deals are paving the way for growth.