The value of intellectual property is recognised by stock markets worldwide. Usually a company’s net book value will be significantly exceeded by its market capitalisation.

IPONZ released its new case management system for trade marks and designs in February.

There has been substantial debate surrounding the uncertainty created by the Minister of Commerce’s announcement that the new Patents Act will exclude all software from patent protection, while Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) guidelines will allow for "embedded" software (http://www.jaws.co.nz/media/breaking-news-are-software-patents-in-new-zealand-a-thing-of-the-past).

The value of IP is not only in its commercial potential, but also in its use in defending infringement allegations.

The value of IP does not only lie in commercial potential, but also in its use in defending infringement allegations.

In 5 years, the DRSP has resolved 76 complaints.

Patent offices around the world are increasingly developing ways to simplify the patent process for those who file corresponding patent applications in a number of countries. Principally, the initiatives aim to encourage consistency of examination between the patent offices of different countries and to provide greater certainty for patent owners and would-be infringers.

This article looks at the pros and cons of employee internet access and what can be done to develop a policy around it.

What do the Rugby World Cup and intellectual property lawyers have in common? The Major Events Management Act.

Trade mark rights can be acquired by use or by registration, but if you don't use your trade mark, you could lose it.

What do the Rugby World Cup and intellectual property lawyers have in common? The Major Events Management Act ("MEMA") - which came into force in 2007, and is intended to protect against ambush marketing for major events.

New Zealand's 2013 Budget includes a package of three internationally focused growth initiatives to lift kiwi exports.

There will be plenty of fuming legal debates on plain packaging of cigarettes in New Zealand.

IP Australia fees for patents, trademarks and designs will change effective 1 July 2012.

This article discusses domain names: what they are, why they are important, and how rights in them are obtained.

The article discusses domain names - what they are, why they are important, and how rights in them can be obtained.

Most organisations do not have an unlimited budget, nor a fully global market. Therefore, it is important that the decision as to where to file for IP protection is made wisely.

As technologies progress, it is becoming more common for people and companies to look for solutions within the realms of available knowledge. Often a known technology from one field when used in a completely different area can deliver surprising results. With those surprising results often come new patents.

Despite the best efforts of brand owners, customs authorities and enforcement agencies, the numbers relating to global counterfeiting remain mind boggling. Data from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development indicates that international trade in counterfeit and pirated goods grew to more than $250 billion in 2008 (almost 2% of world trade) up from $200 billion in 2007.

If the owner of a trade mark can't show sales or offers for sale using its trade mark, it may lose its registration.