Introduction
The concept of a core investment company (CIC) was first introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in 2010. While, at that time, the RBI clarified that companies which invest in shares of other companies, even for the purpose of holding a stake in such company, should be regarded as carrying on the business of a non-banking financial institution, it specifically acknowledged that such class of non-banking financial institution should be afforded differential treatment. This led to the introduction of a differentiated framework for CICs – the main points of difference being the substitution of the capital to risk-weighted assets ratio (as applicable to non-banking financial companies (NBFCs)) with different capital requirements and an exemption from the rules on investment and credit concentration.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for third parties to try and trick others into paying a large sum for specific services, even in the IP field. If an IP owner receives a letter or invoice from an unknown party, it should check what is being offered and whether the source is trustworthy.
A recent Supreme Court decision regarding compulsory vaccination has sparked debate about employers' rights to request that their employees be vaccinated. The Supreme Court declared that COVID-19 vaccination in Brazil is mandatory. However, the authorities cannot directly force adults to be vaccinated against their will. It is likely that the majority of Brazilians will be vaccinated by the end of 2021, so employers should consider implementing internal vaccination policies as soon as possible.
The Consolidated Appropriations Act, which was enacted on 27 December 2020, requires drug manufacturers and licence holders to market biologic drugs and disclose all patents that cover their products to the Food and Drug Administration. By increasing transparency, the act aims to force manufacturers to conform to rules which have proven successful in promoting the development and use of small-molecule generic drugs.
The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress recently adopted the third amendment to the Copyright Law, which is the result of decade-long legislative efforts of the Legislation Office of the State Council and the National Copyright Administration. The amendment will enter into force on 1 June 2021. This article provides an overview of the key highlights of the new law.