Mar 03, 2014 (ACCESSWIRE via COMTEX) -- Amidst

Mar 03, 2014 (ACCESSWIRE via COMTEX) -- Amidst a media frenzy surrounding marijuana and marijuana stocks which included CNBC's Marijuana in America: The Colorado Pot Rush, The Marijuana Index™ experienced significant volume and price fluctuations throughout the month of February 2014.

The Marijuana Index™ hovered around $25 at the beginning of February, and closed the month at $56.21, reflecting a gain of 125%. The total index valuation soared beyond $6 billion, partly due to CannaVest (OTCQB: CANV) achieving unprecedented valuations and following several listing additions to the index. Some companies experienced all-time highs while overall trading volume remains strong.

February featured President Obama's landmark signing of federal legislation which removes barriers for the cultivation of hemp in the United States, and long-awaited advancements in banking regulations were announced which allow legal marijuana businesses to secure loans and setup checking and savings accounts with banks. Though industry insiders remain cautious, the move illustrates a commitment to eliminating challenges inherent in a cash-flushed cannabis business. A group of 18 Congress members even urged President Obama to reschedule marijuana, which he initially stated was not within his executive powers. The President could experience increased pressure on the topic, where marijuana is illogically listed alongside heroin as having no medicinal benefit.

http://www.marijuanaindex.org/