Industry & Regulatory Bodies
Paddy Power ambush ads fuelled by LOCOG reaction, experts agree
Following the Olympics, consensus emerges from marketing and IP gurus that little could be done to prevent online betting site’s themed campaign...  »
The road to ridicule runs both ways
Taken to task by their peers for cutting-edge science and engineering, these four historic innovators proved that the joke is really on the ‘it-can’t-be-done’ crowd, writes Matt Packer...  »
Google+ to issue ‘vanity URLs’
Plans announced by leading search platform give brand owners an opportunity to expand their web presences...  »
Ruling could alter gene pool of US patent law
Much-anticipated outcome of case concerning patents on breast cancer genes may lead to wave of biotech filings...  »
Tobacco companies hit out at Australian High Court decision on plain packaging
Legal ruling gives de-branding scheme the green light – but as publication of the full decision is postponed, tobacco companies maintain their opposition...  »
Painted into a corner? Brand value of artists’ estates under threat from legal action
Fears over lawsuits and legal costs are forcing art experts to wind up their authentication work. Matt Packer explains how the trend could seriously damage the art market’s IP credentials...  »
EU swings and roundabouts hinder single patent’s approval
Matt Packer outlines the latest political manoeuvres that have left Europe’s unitary patent in limbo once again...  »
Luggage brand gets legal attaché on the case to Avenge box design
Container for collection of comic-book adventures also has a lawsuit in store...  »
Grand visions for grander innovations
Large-scale, state-managed projects make impressive showcases for the inventive spirit – but only in rare cases are they impervious to external factors, writes Matt Packer...  »
Social media spotlight: latest legal moves in the UK and US
A defamation case and the opinion of a labour-rights body show how the UK and US legal systems are adjusting to a network of challenges, writes Matt Packer...  »