Cannabis Businesses Seek Broader Access to Financial Services as Federal Policy Shifts

SEATTLE, Sept. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Cannabis businesses are looking to their financial institutions for more than basic banking services, with strong demand for credit, payments, and other traditional financial products, according to new findings from Shield Compliance's 2026 Cannabis Industry Banking Satisfaction Survey, released today at the PBC Conference. The findings come as licensed operators prepare for significant changes in federal cannabis and hemp policy.

Key Findings

• Rescheduling is expected to have a significant financial impact. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents said federal rescheduling is "very likely" or "likely" to affect their business. Respondents want guidance on changes to banking requirements and taxes, as well as greater access to lines of credit, lending, and payment services.
• Hemp policy changes will affect some businesses substantially. Nearly 40% said closing the intoxicating hemp loophole would affect their business a moderate amount or more. Some anticipate reformulating products or changing product lines, while others expect reduced competition from unregulated products and a stronger licensed cannabis market.
• Access to credit remains a challenge. Only about 5% of respondents said commercial credit is readily available, while 45% said it is somewhat available, and 38% said it is not available. Demand for operating lines of credit (74%), equipment financing (57%), and real estate loans (55%) remains strong.
• Businesses want more banking services. Respondents expressed demand for B2B payments, money market or savings accounts, retail payments, and payroll services.
• Banking relationships mature and improve. Favorable satisfaction increased to 92%, up from 84% in 2025, while the percentage of respondents who are likely to change financial institutions in the next 12 months fell from 23% to 12%.

"One of the clearest themes from this year's survey is that personal service continues to drive customer loyalty," said Tony Repanich, President and CEO of Shield Compliance. "Operators cited responsive relationship managers and industry expertise as the primary reasons they stay with their financial institutions. While product expansion and credit access remain important opportunities, strong relationships and knowledgeable support are still the foundation of successful cannabis banking."

Financial Pressures Remain Top of Mind

Despite optimism about the industry's future, operators continue to face significant financial pressures. Cash flow and profitability are their top concerns, followed by access to credit and regulatory compliance. At the same time, 51% expect cannabis industry profitability to be better or much better over the next two to three years.

Underwriting Support from Emerald Intel

The 2026 Cannabis Industry Banking Satisfaction Survey includes underwriting support from Emerald Intel, the trusted source for verified, real-time business intelligence on the cannabis and hemp industry.

About Shield Compliance

Shield Compliance empowers financial institutions and financial service providers to deliver high-risk business banking and financial services with confidence, precision, and trust, combining its advanced technology with deep regulatory and industry expertise. When it comes to high-risk business banking, Shield is "In it. With you." Visit shieldbanking.com or contact info@shieldbanking.com.

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SOURCE Shield Compliance