Region: North America

“40 years of predictability has been discarded”: Federal Circuit applies new flexibility to design patent obviousness

The decision to apply a new, flexible standard to design patent obviousness could open design patents to more validity challenges, result in inconsistent rulings and benefit counterfeiters and aftermarket companies, attorneys warn.

29 May 2024

Nike awarded $1 million in influencer dispute; Manila mall counterfeits pledge; BharatPe and PhonePe settle – news digest

In our latest round-up, we look at consumers wanting brands to put “purpose beyond profit”, the New York Supreme Court clarifying use of a person's image in the background of a social media photo, and much more.

28 May 2024

How to protect your clients from new scams targeting US trademark applicants

The significant increase in fraud against rights holders is a key cause of concern for clients in the United States. WTR Global Leaders reveal how they stay a step ahead while others call for change at the USPTO.

28 May 2024

NO FAKES hearing; China's plan for authorities; Vietnam administrative sanctions – legislation and policy watch (May 2024)

WTR’s monthly column tracks trademark and related policy developments, including the progress of major bills, from around the world.

27 May 2024

Time is running out: share your insights for the new Global IP Benchmarking Survey

With the clock ticking, we urge all IP professionals to contribute to the inaugural collaboration between WTR and IAM – the Global IP Benchmarking Survey.

27 May 2024

Big Five tech US litigation data: Microsoft

The world’s most valuable company is up for the final instalment of our series on trademark litigation in the United States by the Big Five tech companies.

24 May 2024

Christian Louboutin settles red sole lawsuit; Dolce & Gabbana sued over NFT project; MTN brand value declines – news digest

In our latest round-up, we look at a Danish rights holder association signing an EU anti-piracy MoU, Walmart unveiling a new e-commerce metaverse platform, and much more.

24 May 2024

How secondary markets fight counterfeiters: exclusive interview with StockX

The leading secondary market in new sneakers and streetwear tells WTR how it builds relationships with brands and what is next in its fight against counterfeits.

23 May 2024

District court erred in granting preliminary injunction, Second Circuit rules

In an infringement spat between the Fire Department of New York and a first responder, the Second Circuit overturned a district court decision to grant a preliminary injunction. The ruling highlights the importance of the differences between descriptiveness and secondary meaning under the Lanham Act.