Expert Analysis

In the third part of the annual World IP Survey, MIP reveals the top-rated patent firms in Latin America, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and eastern and central Europe

There is a fine line between public awareness of a company's trade mark, and everyday use that can genericize the mark, stripping the company of a valuable intangible asset. David Kelly and Monica Riva Talley explain how brand owners can take steps to avoid losing their trade mark rights

Businesses in the UK are faced with a new set of rules governing how they can use data in marketing and e-commerce. Simon Stokes and Ayesha Bramwell explain how new privacy regulations impact on the use and abuse of spam

Two ECJ decisions delivered on the same day last year address fundamental questions about the limits of legitimate trade mark protection. Justin Watts and Graeme Faeron introduce an overview of the impact the cases will have in different EU member states and at OHIM

Following James Rogan's exit earlier this year, a new director will soon be appointed to run the world's biggest patent office - the USPTO. With rising costs, debates over patent policy and complaints about patent quality and pendency, there are many issues that urgently need tackling. MIP invited six professionals with experience of working with - and inside - the USPTO to discuss the direction of the Office. In a debate moderated by Sam Mamudi, they considered whether Rogan's far-reaching reform proposals address the needs of users

Many brand owners neglect to obtain protection in Macau, due to the expense and difficulty of enforcing rights. But they could be leaving themselves vulnerable to counterfeiters who have easy access to China. Emma Barraclough investigates