Opinion

The brand ecosystem is finite, so it is time data providers start thinking bigger

In our latest Saturday opinion column we consider the potential for data providers to tweak their platforms to target those in the investment and finance space.

15 May 2021

Mars Wrigley’s lawsuit against cannabis companies illustrates the need for brands to police this fast-maturing industry

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we consider the news that Mars Wrigley has launched legal action in both the United States and Canada against companies operating in the cannabis industry.

08 May 2021

As large trademark events pivot to hybrid models, they are setting down foundations for future growth and opportunity

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we reflect on a week in which INTA announced its Annual Meeting would be a ‘virtual+’ event and MARQUES expanded on its plans for a hybrid annual conference.

01 May 2021

There’s no day like World IP Day to prove US innovation is a priority: op-ed

In our latest Saturday opinion column, ahead of World IP Day, Christina Mitropoulos calls on the Biden administration to seize the moment and send a clear message that it will prioritise and protect US creativity and innovation.

24 April 2021

What is notable about the Colin the Caterpillar spat is not the dispute itself

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we consider the media frenzy surrounding the news that Colin the Caterpillar and his nemesis Cuthbert are locked in a legal dispute.

17 April 2021

Satan Shoes settlement is a good result for both parties, but some will lament the fact the case was not heard

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we examine how the dispute between Nike and MSCHF’s Satan Shoes played out.

10 April 2021

Following in the footsteps of Michael Jordan, New Balance, Peppa Pig and Puma, expect more high-profile trademark decisions in China in the coming months

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we look at recent policy announcements and big decisions in China.

03 April 2021

While the ‘mandatory versus voluntary’ debate continues, legislation on platform action over fake goods looms ever closer

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we reflect on the reintroduction of the US INFORM Consumers Act.

27 March 2021

Now the genie is out the bottle, expect IP enforcement to remain high on government agendas

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we reflect on recent collaborations between enforcement authorities, IP offices and rights holders.

20 March 2021

Virgin brand value spat shows that reputation matters; now is the time for trademark professionals to make themselves part of the discussion

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we reflect on a high-profile licensing dispute between Virgin and Brightline, which highlights the growing interest in brand valuations.

13 March 2021

Filings from China won't slow any time soon, but IP offices have to plan for a future that looks even more different

In our latest Saturday opinion column, we argue that high levels of filing activity by Chinese applicants are unlikely to end any time soon.

06 March 2021

App takedowns are the new cease and desist dilemma, and require careful strategising

In our Saturday opinion piece, we consider recent backlashes against app marketplace takedown actions – and the resulting media coverage.

27 February 2021

Consolidation continues in IP services sector but further tech innovation expected (not least from law firms)

In our Saturday opinion piece, we consider recent activity in the non-legal IP services market.

20 February 2021

Coca-Cola voices frustration over lack of diversity in legal field, expect more companies to follow suit

Coca-Cola has become the latest company to publicly detail the diversity, inclusion and belonging commitments that it expects of law firms in its external network.

13 February 2021

Efforts to help SMEs acquire and use trademarks are great, but more needs to be done to protect them from scammers

While efforts to help more SMEs benefit from IP ownership are to be applauded, there also needs to be a relentless industry focus on keeping them safe from the fraudsters and scammers.

06 February 2021

Recalibrating the work-life balance will be one of the biggest challenges facing trademark professionals in 2021 (and beyond)

In our latest opinion column we reflect on the findings of the latest WTR Trademark Elite Expert Panel report.

30 January 2021

Under-resourced and under-appreciated: now is the time for trademark teams to raise their corporate profile

In the first of a series of Saturday opinion columns we consider what 2021 will look like for corporate trademark professionals, and how they should respond.

16 January 2021