Navigating the Cannabis Investment Landscape with Chris Reece of MJ REIT

In a recent episode of Moving Mountains, host Dr. Lance Knaub sat down with Chris Reece, founder and CEO of MJ REIT, to explore the intersection of finance, real estate, and the rapidly evolving cannabis industry. With nearly 30 years of asset management experience, Chris shared insights into his unique investment strategy, the legislative shifts shaping cannabis, and his entrepreneurial journey.

From Wall Street to Cannabis Real Estate

Chris began his career in public markets, working with firms like Vanguard and FS Investments, before transitioning to private markets 14 years ago. Recognizing the untapped potential in cannabis—a high-growth industry starved of traditional capital—he launched MJ REIT in 2022.

Why Cannabis?

- Explosive Growth: Cannabis is one of America’s fastest-growing industries, yet federal illegality limits access to banking and institutional funding.

- Differentiated Returns: By focusing on real estate loans to cannabis businesses, MJ REIT offers investors non-correlated returns compared to traditional real estate.

- Risk Mitigation: Chris’s team underwrites loans as if cannabis tenants don’t exist, valuing properties based on their utility for conventional industrial tenants.

Legislative Tailwinds

Chris highlighted the recent DEA decision to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, a move that will allow businesses to deduct ordinary expenses (eliminating IRS Code 280E) and improve cash flow for borrowers. While "Safe Banking" legislation remains stalled, the reclassification signals progress toward broader financial inclusion for the industry.

Health Benefits and Social Impact

Beyond finance, Chris emphasized cannabis’s potential to replace opioids for pain management, reduce anxiety, and stimulate appetite for cancer patients. As research expands post-reclassification, he expects even more medical applications to emerge.

Entrepreneurial Wisdom: Staying Resilient

Chris shared lessons from launching MJ REIT:

1. Build a Strong Network: "Surround yourself with people smarter than you."

2. Stay Organized: Daily lists and weekly reviews keep priorities clear.

3. Embrace the Grind: "Starting a business means working 24/7—but passion fuels perseverance."

4. Prioritize Health: Daily workouts, meditation, and quality sleep are non-negotiables for sustained performance.

How to Connect

Interested in diversifying your portfolio with cannabis real estate? Learn more at [www.mj-reit.com](http://www.mj-reit.com) or reach out to Chris directly through the site’s contact form.

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For more insights on entrepreneurship and alternative investments, tune into the full episode of Moving Mountains

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