News

• WIPO Orders Transfer of ‘thedailymailpolitics.com’ Domain to Associated Newspapers

  
  
  
  In a recent ruling, the WIPO arbitration panel ordered the transfer of the domain name <thedailymailpolitics.com> to Associated Newspapers Limited, the publisher of the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday. The dispute arose when Associated Newspapers challenged the registration of the domain, arguing it infringed on their long-established trademark, 'DAILY MAIL,' which is widely recognised across print and online media. The panel found the domain name confusingly similar to the trademark, noting that the inclusion of 'the' and 'politics' reinforced the association with the complainant’s publications, particularly given their extensive political coverage. It further determined that the respondent, Freddy Paul of Daily Mail News, Australia, lacked legitimate interests and registered the domain in bad faith, supported by its passive use and lack of response to the complaint. The decision underscores the critical importance of safeguarding intellectual property rights in the digital age, particularly for media entities. Chart below shows the revenue of News Corp. worldwide from 2017 to 2024, by region (in million U.S. dollars), offering a comparative perspective on the financial landscape of global media companies.
  
  

  
  

  20/11/2024

• Klarna Eyes U.S. IPO Amid Strong Financial Turnaround

  
  
  
  Swedish payments giant Klarna has filed confidential documents with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, signaling preparations for a potential stock market debut. While the size and valuation of the offering remain undisclosed, reports suggest it could value the company at $15–20 billion. CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski hinted earlier this year that a U.S. listing was under serious consideration, though European options are still on the table. Klarna’s strong first-half financial rebound, with a profit of 673 million Swedish kronor (€58 million) following prior losses, was fueled by staff reductions and AI-driven efficiencies in customer service. A U.S. IPO would follow in the footsteps of Spotify’s 2018 listing in New York, marking another setback for European capital markets as innovative firms increasingly turn to the U.S. for public offerings. Founded in 2005, Klarna is a pioneer in 'buy now, pay later' services, offering flexible payment solutions like direct payments, post-delivery options, and installment plans. The following chart illustrates the market share of “buy now, pay later” services in selected countries.
  
  

  
  

  18/11/2024

• Nestlé Secures Domain Victory, Reinforces Global Brand Protection

  
  
  
  In a recent WIPO decision, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., a global leader in food and beverages, successfully opposed OSS Beck’s registration of four domain names: <nestldinr.top>, <nestle2inr.xyz>, <nestl2inr.top>, and <nestiea.com>. Nestlé argued these domains, mimicking its trademark, were likely to confuse users and harm its brand. The panel found that the domains were used for deceptive purposes, including phishing schemes and promoting fraudulent services. Given the clear attempt to capitalize on Nestlé’s well-established brand, the panel ruled in favor of Nestlé, ordering the transfer of the domains. This case underscores the importance of domain protection strategies for multinational companies facing cybersquatting and brand misuse. Nestlé, the largest FMCG company globally, has demonstrated remarkable adaptability in challenging markets through strategic acquisitions and divestments. Its North American business is a testament to the value of well-timed acquisitions. Nestlé’s significant success in the U.S. pet care market traces back to acquisitions of Spillers Petfoods and Ralston Purina, which established Nestlé as a major player in the pet food sector, particularly in North America. The company’s growth strategy exemplifies its commitment to maintaining its industry leadership worldwide.
  
  

  
  

  14/11/2024