Explore the roles of different stakeholders across the M&A process with perspectives provided by in-house counsel, external counsel, and other stakeholders. 

Examine innovative financing models, tax-efficient IP holding companies, and underwriting practices where IP serves as core collateral.

Navigate regulatory pressures such as Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) reviews, tariff regimes, and the polarization of IP rights in deals involving China versus the rest of the world.

Understand how cybersecurity, data privacy, and AI-related risks are influencing M&A strategies.

Analyze how supply chain realignment and regionalization impacts IP deployment, deal structuring, valuation, deal execution, and strategic asset placement.

Discover how AI is revolutionizing IP valuation, predictive analytics, and deal modeling—driving the fusion of intangible assets with financial strategy.

Gain practical takeaways on aligning innovation portfolios, managing trade secrets, and navigating branding challenges—including the reputational risks of AI-washing, greenwashing, maintaining authenticity in global markets, and managing co-use of trademarks after a deal closes.

9:30 a.m.–9:40 a.m.
Welcome and Opening Remarks

9:40 a.m.–10:10 a.m.  
Capsule Keynote
IP in M&A—Strategic Overview 

Kick off the conference with a strategic overview of the role of intellectual property in mergers and acquisitions. This keynote will highlight how IP drives corporate value and influences deal structuring, showcase trends in IP-driven acquisitions, and present case studies from recent high-profile deals. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Recognize how IP assets shape corporate value and deal terms. 
• Identify current trends in IP-driven acquisitions. 
• Learn from real-world case studies to inform future deal strategy.
  

10:15 a.m.–11:05 a.m.
M&A Fundamentals—Types, Strategies, Stakeholder Roles, and Success Factors 

Begin the conference with a dynamic introduction to the M&A landscape, tailored for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. This session breaks down the five main types of mergers—horizontal, vertical, conglomerate, market extension, and product extension—explaining their strategic goals and impact across industries. 

Participants will gain a practical framework for navigating the deal lifecycle, including the roles of executives, legal teams, external advisors, and regulators, and how IP fits within this framework. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Grasp the basic types of M&A and their strategic purposes. 
• Understand the distinct priorities and pain points of in-house teams versus external counsel. 
• Learn best practices for stakeholder alignment and managing cross-functional teams. 
• Acquire tools for effective communication and expectation-setting throughout the deal lifecycle. 
• Leave with a clear understanding of how your role fits into the broader M&A picture.

11:05 a.m.–11:20 a.m.
Coffee Break 

11:20 a.m.–12:10 p.m.
Law Firm M&A: Strategic Choices and Leadership Considerations 

This session explores the unique dynamics of mergers and acquisitions within law firms. Managing partners and practice leaders will learn about the types of law firm M&A—full mergers, practice group acquisitions, lateral team moves, and strategic alliances—and the critical considerations for successful integration. The session covers cultural alignment, client retention, compensation structures, technology integration, and regulatory compliance, offering practical guidance for legal leaders navigating growth and change. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Distinguish between types of law firm M&A: full mergers, practice group acquisitions, lateral team moves, and strategic alliances. 
• Assess cultural fit and leadership alignment to ensure a smooth transition. 
• Develop strategies for client retention and communication during integration. 
• Understand compensation, partnership, and governance issues unique to law firm deals. 
• Address technology, data privacy, and regulatory compliance challenges in legal M&A. 

12:15 p.m.–1:05 p.m.
M&A Across Borders: Legal Frameworks and Risk Mitigation for Cross-Jurisdictional IP 

Navigate the complexities of cross-border transactions, focusing on regulatory pressures, integration challenges, and risk mitigation strategies for IP assets. This session will help you navigate regulatory pressures such as CFIUS reviews, tariff regimes, and the polarization of IP rights in deals involving China versus the rest of the world.  Analyze how deshoring, reshoring, friend shoring, and supply chain trends impact IP deployment, deal structuring, valuation, deal execution, and strategic asset placement. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Identify key regulatory hurdles in international M&A. 
• Understand how geopolitical factors—including CFIUS, tariffs, and China-specific IP issues—impact deal structure and execution. 
• Develop strategies for integrating IP portfolios across jurisdictions. 
• Understand risk mitigation techniques for global transactions. 

1:05 p.m.–2:05 p.m.
Networking Luncheon 

2:10 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Legal Frameworks and Risk Mitigation: Navigating Jurisdiction, Competition, and Employment Law 

This session tackles the legal complexities that can make or break an M&A transaction. Delve into jurisdictional challenges in IP transfers, antitrust and competition law implications, and the critical role of employment contracts and IP assignments. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Identify and address jurisdictional hurdles in transferring IP assets. 
• Understand how competition laws impact M&A strategy and execution. 
• Ensure that employment contracts and IP assignments are robust, enforceable, and aligned with deal objectives, and that data rights are allocated appropriately. 
• Integrate legal risk management into every stage of the transaction. 

3:05 p.m.–3:55 p.m.
Structuring the Deal: Financing, Underwriting, and Drafting IP Clauses

Dive into innovative financing models, underwriting practices, and the art of drafting robust IP clauses. Learn how IP can serve as collateral, and how to structure covenants and deal terms to protect value and manage risk. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Discover financing options where IP is the core asset. 
• Learn how underwriters assess IP value and risk. 
• Access practical tips for drafting and negotiating IP clauses in M&A agreements. 

3:55 p.m.–4:10 p.m.
Coffee Break 

4:10 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Dissecting Modern Mergers: A Case Study Approach 

Analyze recent M&A transactions through detailed case studies, highlighting best practices, pitfalls, and lessons learned. This session will provide practical insights for both in-house and external counsel. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Learn from real-world examples of successful and challenging mergers. 
• Gain actionable strategies for navigating complex deal scenarios. 
• Discover how lessons learned can be applied to future transactions. 

9:30 a.m.–9:40 a.m.
Welcome and Opening Remarks 

9:40 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Due Diligence Deep Dive: Identifying, Valuing, and Integrating IP Assets 

This session provides a comprehensive exploration of IP due diligence in M&A, designed for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Learn how to systematically identify and value IP assets, spot red flags in ownership and licensing, and integrate IP review with broader legal due diligence. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Confidently identify and assess the IP assets in any transaction. 
• Spot and resolve common red flags in IP ownership, chain of title, and licensing agreements. 
• Integrate IP due diligence with broader legal review for a holistic risk assessment. 
• Learn to build checklists and frameworks for both in-house teams and external counsel. 

10:30 a.m.–10:45 a.m.
Coffee Break 

10:45 a.m.–11:35 a.m.
Lending Against IP: Legal, Financial, and Strategic Considerations 

Understand how lenders evaluate IP portfolios, structure covenants, and manage enforcement risk. Hear perspectives from banks, venture capitalists, and alternative lenders on leveraging IP for financing. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Learn how to prepare IP portfolios for loans and collateralization. 
• Understand lender expectations and risk management strategies. 
• Gain insights into structuring covenants and enforcement mechanisms. 

11:40 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Post-Merger IP Integration: Strategy, Portfolios, and People 

Move beyond the basics of integration to address strategic alignment, portfolio management, and operational execution. This session covers the practical realities of merging innovation assets and teams. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Build effective post-merger integration plans for IP assets. 
• Align innovation portfolios and manage trade secrets. 
• Navigate the human side of integration—roles, responsibilities, and culture. 

12:30 p.m.–1:30 p.m.
Networking Luncheon 

1:35 p.m.–2:25 p.m.
Brand Integration and Post-Merger Strategy: Consolidation, Communication, and Legacy IP 

This session focuses on the critical challenges and opportunities of brand integration after a merger or acquisition. Learn how to consolidate trademark portfolios, execute successful rebranding and market communication strategies, and manage legacy IP and licensing agreements. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Develop a roadmap for consolidating and optimizing trademark portfolios. 
• Execute effective rebranding and communication plans to support business goals. 
• Manage legacy IP and licensing agreements to minimize risk and maximize post-merger value. 
• Ensure brand authenticity and market confidence during integration. 

2:30 p.m.–3:20 p.m.
Technology Watch: Cybersecurity, Data Privacy, AI, ESG, and Emerging IP Issues in M&A 

Stay current on technology-driven risks and opportunities in M&A, including cybersecurity, data privacy, AI, ESG, and other emerging issues. Learn how these factors influence deal structuring, valuation, and post-close strategy. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Identify and mitigate technology and data risks in transactions. 
• Understand the impact of AI and ESG on IP strategy. 
• Discover frameworks for managing emerging risks and compliance. 

Moderator: Sasha Rosenthal-Larrea, Partner, Cravath, Swaine & Moore (USA) 

3:20 p.m.–3:35 p.m.
Coffee Break 

3:35 p.m.–4:25 p.m.
The Future of IP Protection in M&A 

Explore evolving regulations and government initiatives affecting IP in M&A. This session highlights emerging trends, compliance requirements, and strategies for safeguarding IP assets in a changing legal landscape. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Stay ahead of regulatory changes impacting IP protection. 
• Learn compliance best practices for M&A transactions. 
• Develop strategies for future-proofing IP portfolios. 

4:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Capsule Keynote
The Future of IP in Corporate Strategy 

Conclude the conference with a forward-looking keynote on the evolving role of intellectual property in corporate strategy. This session will explore how IP is shaping competitive advantage, innovation, and growth in a rapidly changing business environment. Attendees will gain insights into emerging trends, strategic opportunities, and practical steps for integrating IP into long-term business planning. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Understand the future trajectory of IP in corporate strategy and deal-making. 
• Identify emerging trends and technologies influencing IP value. 
• Learn how to position IP as a driver of innovation, growth, and resilience. 
• Leave with actionable ideas for integrating IP into your organization’s strategic vision.