UK Competition Watchdog Approves Microsoft’s $69 Billion Activision Blizzard Acquisition

In a significant recent development, Microsoft Corp.’s proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard Inc., valued at $69 billion, has received approval from the UK competition watchdog. This clearance has removed one of the last major global regulatory obstacles preventing the completion of what is set to be the gaming industry’s largest ever deal. The transaction had…

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Asian Law Firms Grapple with Lateral Hiring and Due Diligence amid Ethical Concerns

In an environment where law firms are optimizing their lateral hiring process, extensive due diligence is becoming a requirement in Asian markets. This includes thorough research beyond simply reviewing a résumé and making a few phone calls, as recent problems have arisen from inadequate vetting of candidates. With several cases coming to light of law…

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ITC’s Evolving Approach to Infringement Claims: Unraveling Implications for Corporations and Legal Professionals

In examining the legal landscape for September 2023, international trade commission (ITC) developments present several notable talking points. The ITC has seen recent modifications in its scope of authority, particularly concerning the evaluation of infringement claims. At the forefront of this discourse is a case categorized as ‘Certain Outdoor and Semi-Outdoor Electronic Displays, Products Containing…

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Former Immigration Coordinator Banned for Sharing Confidential Client Details on Twitter

A former immigration coordinator employed by Fragomen LLP has received a professional ban after sharing confidential client details on social media platforms, namely Twitter, along with the contribution of inappropriate comments. As reported on Law360, the punishment was announced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority last Thursday. The individual in question previously occupied a role at…

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CFPB Shines Light on Junk Fees in Deposits, Auto Servicing, and Remittances

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently released an update to its Supervisory Highlights, focusing on “junk fees” in the areas of deposits, auto servicing, and remittances. This, dubbed the “Junk Fees Update Special Edition”, provides insights from the Bureau’s examinations that occurred between February and August 2023 and marked a continuation of its effort…

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Establishing Foreign Business Operations in the UK: Legal, Tax, and Administrative Requirements

The establishment of a business operation in the United Kingdom by a foreign corporation involves numerous considerations with regard to laws, taxes, and administrative requirements. This note provides an outline of these particulars as they currently stand, catering specifically to foreign corporations looking to expand their operations into the UK. When establishing a business operation,…

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Saudi Arabia’s New Civil Code: Bolstering International Business Confidence with Revised Liquidated Damages Regime

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has enacted a new Civil Code that underscores its commitment to inviting the international business community into its jurisdiction. One component that merits close attention, especially for project owners, contractors and service providers across the energy, construction and infrastructure sectors, is the newly implemented liquidated damages regime. Article provided by…

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UN Human Rights Council Launches Fact-Finding Mission in Sudan Amid Ongoing Conflict

On Wednesday, the United Nations Human Rights Council established an independent international fact-finding mission in Sudan according to a resolution they issued. This resolution is a response to almost six months of continuous armed conflict in Sudan between two military factions: the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF). In September, more than…

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Biglaw Firm Revokes Job Offer Over Law Student’s Support for Hamas Attacks: The Intersection of Professionalism and Free Speech

Winston & Strawn, a biglaw firm, has recently exercised its right to revoke a job offer extended to Ryna Workman, a law student from New York University (NYU), following her statement supporting Hamas attacks as “necessary”. The topic has ignited a discussion on freedom of speech, the rights of private firms, and the extent to…

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Supreme Court Denies Glove Manufacturer’s Dismissal Plea: Implications for Multinational Firms in Jurisdiction Disputes

In a recent ruling that carries weighty implications for multinational corporations, the Supreme Court of New York, New York County denied a renewed motion to dismiss filed by glove manufacturer Steel Grip Inc. (SGI). The relentless company had based its dismissal plea on the grounds that it lacked any significant connection to the State of…

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International Trade Compliance Series: Exploring Assists in U.S. Customs Valuation Guidelines

Legal professionals and international trade experts are in for a riveting discourse as Braumiller Law Group Senior Counsel Bruce Leeds is set to kick off a monthly webinar series regarding Hot Topics in International Trade Compliance. The first presentation, aptly titled “When is an Assist Not an Assist?”, is scheduled on November 2nd,11:30 am –…

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Russian Court Dismisses Appeal, Keeps WSJ Reporter in Pretrial Detention on Espionage Charges

In a recent development, an appeal from Wall Street Journal reporter, Evan Gershkovich, who has been held for over six months on espionage allegations, has been dismissed by a Russian court. This decision implies Gershkovich will remain in pre-trial detention. As reported by Russian state-affiliated news outlet TASS, the court examined the appeal against the…

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Euronext Leaps Forward with ESG Initiatives: A Boost for the Green Economy

In September 2023, Euronext, the pan-European stock exchange and market infrastructure provider, announced the imminent launch of a series of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) tools and initiatives that put a heavy emphasis on sustainable finance. Notable among these plans is Euronext’s intention to publicly disclose the non-financial data of its issuers via its website….

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September 2023 Trade Law Update: Key Changes Impacting International Commerce and Supply Chain

In this September 2023 Trade Law update, we bring your attention to a number of critical matters affecting international trade and supply chain law. The report, published by Husch Blackwell LLP, covers multiple important updates. Read the full update for detailed information on each topic. The following summary highlights the key areas of interest: An…

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AI Discrimination: Legal Consequences in Spain Amidst Pending EU Regulation

In the contemporary global legal landscape, the subject of Artificial Intelligence (AI) discrimination is increasingly gaining momentum and warranting scrutiny. A prime example of this is the impending EU Artificial Intelligence Regulation, which aims to establish a comprehensive framework regulating the use of AI systems. Under this upcoming regulation, acts of discrimination and discriminatory bias…

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Shipping and Offshore Finance Expert Daniel Rodgers Joins Baker Donelson as Shareholder

Baker Donelson has once again demonstrated its commitment to expanding its professional ranks with the recent addition of Daniel Rodgers as a shareholder in its financial services transactions group. This high-profile capture not only secures an experienced professional but also reinforces Baker Donelson’s commitment to expanding its client services. Rodgers, whose office will be located…

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CRTC Enforces Regulations on Online Broadcasting Companies, Impacting Canadian and Foreign Entities

On September 29, 2023, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) issued its first two decisions regulating online broadcasting companies. These decisions will significantly impact many online businesses in Canada. Notably, it mandates that such entities register with the CRTC. This ruling not only encompasses video and audio streaming services but also social media services….

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Navigating the Global Landscape of Evolving AI Regulations and Risk Management

Law.com International reports that general counsel are increasingly under pressure to manage AI risk within their organisations, even as regulators globally race to define the rules of engagement. In the U.S., AI regulation is considered to be in an early stage. Lawmakers have engaged tech executives in dialogues, and several bills directed at controlling the…

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