Monthly Archives: June 2026

Moldova Joins the EPC

Posted on June 18, 2026 by Dr. Dirk Franke

On June 1, 2026, the Republic of Moldova acceded to the European Patent Convention (EPC) as its 40th contracting state. A single European patent application can now reach 40 states. What changes for applicants For European patent applications with a … Continue reading →

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The apud Model of Qualitative Patent Valuation – and How to Use Its Factors to Increase the Value of Your Patent Portfolio

Posted on June 17, 2026 by Dr. Dirk Franke

Patents often make up a substantial part of a company’s intangible value – yet that value cannot be captured in a single figure. The apud model is a qualitative valuation approach that systematically captures the characteristics that determine a patent’s … Continue reading →

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Abstract (Single-Colour) Trademarks and Their Case Law in Germany

Posted on June 17, 2026 by Dr. Dirk Franke

A single colour can be a trademark – Telekom’s magenta, Langenscheidt’s yellow and the Sparkassen red are well-known examples. At the same time, the abstract, contourless colour mark is one of the hardest marks to obtain and to enforce. This … Continue reading →

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Failed Trials, Strong Patents: The Federal Court of Justice on Fampridine-SR (BGH X ZR 165/23)

Posted on June 16, 2026 by Dr. Dirk Franke

German Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof), judgment of 17 March 2026 – X ZR 165/23 – on appeal from the Federal Patent Court In a decision that commentators are already calling a milestone for pharmaceutical patents, the X. Civil Senate … Continue reading →

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When “Suitability” Isn’t Enough: The Federal Court of Justice on Purpose-Bound Substance Protection (BGH X ZB 3/25)

Posted on June 16, 2026 by Dr. Dirk Franke

German Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof), order of 25 February 2026 – X ZB 3/25 – Fructose Intolerance Agent · ECLI:DE:BGH:2026:250226BXZB3.25.0 In a decision handed down on February 25, 2026, the X. Civil Senate (Patent Senate) of Germany’s Federal Court … Continue reading →

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