In a speech on 13 December, Financial Services Authority (FSA) chief executive Hector Sants outlined what firms can expect of the supervisory approach under the new regulatory structure following the abolition of the FSA in 2012. Sants attributed the financial crisis ‘first and foremost to massive misjudgements’ made by key financial institutions, before going on …
At the start of 2011, with environmental and energy issues high on the political agenda, this article highlights some of the key developments that can be expected by businesses and in-house lawyers in these fields this year.
Not least due to the financial crisis, the situation surrounding the public budget in central and eastern Europe (CEE) and southeastern Europe (SEE) countries is fraught with complications. Nonetheless, governments (including the states, provinces and municipalities) in the EU will invest a barely credible €2.5trn (ie €2,500bn) in various government contracts in 2011 – purchasing …
Continue reading “Saving billions of euros in public procurement”
Continuing the recent trend of expanding the UK’s already extensive body of tax legislation, 2011 looks likely to be a busy year for the law makers. This article summarises the key tax changes that are set to take place over the next year.
Following a lengthy review and consultation process by the European Commission, the Prospectus Directive (Directive 2003/71/EC) (PD) has been amended after Directive 2010/73/EU (the Directive) came into force on 31 December 2010.
In the recent case of Crest Nicholson (Londinium) Ltd v Akaria Investments Ltd [2010], the Court of Appeal was once again tasked with confirming the proper test for offer and acceptance. This article will provide an overview of the rules of offer and acceptance, in addition to a brief review of Crest Nicholson, and key …
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Commercial markets in the UAE are still feeling the shock of the global economic recession, forcing many companies to undergo restructuring to ensure better efficiency and productivity. Yet, many of them are not aware of the legal intricacies and practical complexities surrounding a corporate restructuring.
Since the Conveyancing and Feudal Reform (Scotland) Act 1970 (the 1970 Act) came into force, the only lawful means of creating a fixed security over land and buildings situated in Scotland is by way of a standard security. In addition to creating this form of security, the 1970 Act provides for the imposition of various …
In this digital age of social media and 24/7 rolling news, the need for a company to manage and maintain a positive image has never been more important. Today’s increasingly competitive commercial landscape can make correctly managing a reputation vital to commercial success. However, getting it right can be a tough challenge. Managing the reputation …
Continue reading “A brand marriage made in heaven? Reputational risks in corporate partnerships”
The legal concept of privilege underpins much of the daily interaction between lawyers and clients because it allows a client uninhibited access to a lawyer’s professional advice, free from concern that confidential communications will be disclosed in any subsequent litigation. This article focuses on three recent cases that have provided clarification on the scope of …
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Every organisation has its share of naysayers. Far from detracting from the business, these individuals can play an integral part in keeping a company on course, realistic and focused on squeezing value from resources. The field of intellectual property (IP) is no stranger to naysayers – IP counsel are often quick to naysay the feasibility …
Continue reading “Assessing the effectiveness of IP strategy”
Business interruption insurance is often a key component of a company’s business continuity plan. The insurance is designed to compensate an insured for the financial effect of the interruption or interference to that business as a result of physical damage to an insured property or other key external events, such as damage at a supplier’s …
Continue reading “Business interruption insurance: importance of understanding cover”