As brand extension through licensing becomes increasingly popular, the phenomenon of over-licensing has emerged as a potential threat to brand health and longevity
China
To welcome in the Year of the Rooster, we take a look back at the biggest Chinese trademark case of the last 12 months – and ask whether it could turn out to be one of the most important rulings for brand owners in the country’s history
There has been a shake-up at the top of the Brand Finance annual Global 500 report, with Google knocking Apple from its perch after five years at the top. But it is Chinese brands which saw the most growth in 2016
As IP offices across the world adapt and improve the services they offer, World Trademark Review identifies those leading the way with non-core tools and services – and those falling behind
Trademark dilution on social media has been on the rise for several years. Now the International Social Media Association hopes to find a way to remove legal uncertainty and ease the pressure on rights holders
India
The Indian Trademark Registry has stepped up its digital efforts in the last year, while changes to the legislative regime demonstrate growing recognition for international brand owners
Singapore
The chief executive of the IP Office of Singapore – which is renowned for its ground-breaking approach to trademark services – offers his vision of how its counterparts around the world can transform themselves into innovation agencies
China
On December 7 2016 high-level brand protection professionals, investigators, industry specialists and enforcement officials gathered in Shanghai for World Trademark Review’s Brand Protection Greater China summit
United States of America
Extensive rule changes have now come into effect at the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board which promise greater efficiency and clarity in proceedings. However, brand owners and IP counsel need to be well versed in the changes to get the most out of them
There has been persistent criticism of the rights protection mechanisms offered by online marketplaces, with brand owners calling for better anti-counterfeiting tools. Leading e-commerce platforms offer advice on how best to utilise the current arsenal
Messaging apps have overtaken social networks in total user numbers and many are now embedding payment methods on their platforms, creating yet another challenge for brand owners
United States of America
The US Patent and Trademark Office is tightening controls on the post-registration requirement of use in an effort to clean up the US Trademark Register – meaning that rights holders now face random audits of their registered marks
Caribbean
Across the Caribbean, the trademark landscape is transforming. Recent legislative revisions have helped to modernise trademark law in two important jurisdictions and there is much to encourage international brand owners
