On the Lighter Side: When Things Fall Apart

First it was Brexit, then Harry left; now it’s the ravens in the Tower of London slipping away. Maybe they’re hungry, or bored by the lack of tourists. What if there’s some truth to the legend that surrounds them?

The combination of food and money often leads to crime; when Swiss factories malfunction, the result can be sweet. We can’t say the same for the newest shortage: pepperoni.

Photo by Kasturi Roy on Unsplash.

FYI

Facebook’s Off Facebook Activity feature may know more about you than you think.

Trends We’re Watching

Lenders v. Commercial Landlords

What’s Puzzling Us: New Candy Ideas

Last year, candy corn was at the top of the most hated Halloween candy list. Why expand the brand to include Thanksgiving flavors?

What Doesn’t Surprise Us At All: Outer Space 

The meteor that fell on Costa Rica last year could hold clues to the origins of life.

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Find out how the slowing Gulf Stream may affect us.

View the 2020 Macrophotography winners.

Don’t overlook honey. It is still a good remedy for colds.

Trademark Confusion

Apple is suing a small company named Prepare for using a pear logo, which allegedly might confuse consumers. When Tiffany & Co. sued Costco for selling “Tiffany” rings, the famed jeweler argued confusion and succeeded at the trial court level. Costco appealed to the 2nd Circuit, which rendered a decision siding with Costco’s argument that their customers would not confuse the rings at Costco’s with those sold by Tiffany & Co.

Whether you are protecting a trademark, or some other aspect of your IP assets, the experts at Asterion can assist you. 

Exiting Contracts via Breach 

Sometimes breaching an agreement can be the best way out. If you’re going to break a contract, be prepared. Earlier this month, when Fortnite creator Epic Games sued Apple in a dispute over App Store fees, they released a video and filed their complaint within hours of the breach that led to their removal from the Apple App Store. Since then Google Play has taken similar action against Epic Games. Apple’s response suggests the company will not hesitate to expand the impact of the dispute beyond Epic, triggering Microsoft to file a statement with the court in support of Epic Games. We wonder if Apple will be able to hold onto their 30% fee indefinitely.    

If you are contemplating the financial consequences of breaching an agreement, Asterion can model damages scenarios in advance to assist you in making a more informed business decision. 

Spotlight on IP Damages and Economic ConsultingAsterion, Inc. has extensive experience providing expert and consulting advice related to the financial and economic issues of evaluating intellectual property (“IP”).



August 25, 2020