Last year, the global marijuana market was valued at $17 billion, according to data published by Genesis Market Insights. Additionally, the market is forecast to hit $58 billion over the next five years, representing an increase of more than 240%. The increased legalization of cannabis, whether for medicinal or recreational purposes, is the key element of the industry’s rapid growth. North America, by no surprise, presently is the leader of the marijuana industry and it is projected to be the fastest growing region boasting the largest market share. Although the U.S has not yet lifted the federal ban on marijuana, together with Canada, the two command the global cannabis market.Click Here For Today's Trending Marijuana Stocks Simultaneously along with economic growth, the data also indicated that marijuana industry should expect to see a rise in marijuana-related jobs during the same period. In the state of California alone, it is predicted that 99,000 jobs within the industry will be created, while Canadian cannabis related job hunting has more than quadrupled over the past year. “”The numerous employment opportunities created by the cannabis industry, especially in states that are legalizing adult use, cross the spectrum from retail and service jobs to science, technology and other traditional professions. Voters have noticed, and now legislators are waking up to the opportunities.” said Tom Adams, Editor-in-Chief at Arcview Market Research and Principal Analyst at BDS Analytics. As marijuana continues to take more of a mainstream approach, here are 3 North American marijuana stocks for investors to consider.