I think big market players do know the value of xxii but are unable to invest because of constraints, namely that xxii is an OTC stock. Van has stated this and so has Big Puff. The key is to uplist.
Relying on the DD of individual investors to unlock the value of xxii so it can uplist is asking a lot. First it is small and unknown by most. Also, there is a stigma factor that must be overcome and some folks won't take the time to do it. It is easy to give it a cursory glance and assume it is a "tobacco stock" rather than a plant genetics company with some socially desirable goals. It took me awhile to get serious about it even as a HTSBS subscriber because I was turned off when I saw the link to tobacco. I went straight to SPIHF, which turned out fine. I picked this one up last of the 3 and had to convince the wife too as she was adamant we were not going to invest in tobacco. I had to explain the VLN concept and the research studies but she still doesn't like the investment here. Such are the whims of individual investors. I do not think the big players have any such qualms but even in that space there may be social responsibility mutual funds that may be reluctant to take a bite of this one.
The company understands the value of uplisting to unlock value by attracting investment from the big boys. The warrant exchange is the last real impediment from a balance sheet perspective. All indications are the warrant exchange is going to be successful. Assuming there are no BOD or other governance issues, all that remains for uplisting is to increase the share price. The warrants will help with that and we will see if it is enough. If not, there are other catalysts , i.e., the start of production, increasing profitability, MSA news etc. but it is unclear how long it will take to cross the threshold for uplisting. I am optimistic all will be in place by mid to late Q1.
