The Business of M&A: Navigating the Convergence of Intangible Assets and Capital in the Age of AI
March 18–March 19, 2026, at Columbia University
The convergence of intellectual property (IP) and capital—accelerated by artificial intelligence—is transforming the M&A landscape. IP is becoming the most dynamic—and often the most critical—asset class in transactions. Join us as we convene legal, financial, and innovation leaders to explore how intangible assets are reshaping deal structures, valuation models, deal terms, and post-close integration strategies across industries. The conference will also provide M&A basics for those looking to learn. This event is designed for all practitioners. Whether you’re in a small, mid-sized, or multinational company or firm, our sessions will provide actionable insights into how IP intersects with deal-making, risk management, and innovation leadership from both in-house and external counsel perspectives.
Why does this matter now?
- IP Valuation: The IP assets involved in deals increasingly provide the dominant deal value, impacting structuring, tax treatment, enforceability, and strategic direction.
- Deal Structure: Buyers increasingly prioritize targets with IP assets in jurisdictions aligned with their growth and their regulatory and risk profiles, and they structure their deals around IP rather than physical assets.
- Brand Strategy: Shifting operations and asset locations affect brand perception—including the context of “Made in” labeling, ESG commitments, long term trademark strategy across jurisdictions, ethical innovation, and the growing scrutiny around AI-washing.
The conference will center a two-day programming track on mergers and acquisitions in an intellectual property heavy world, incorporating topics like financing, lending, underwriting, and tax, all with consideration to AI and its growing impact on all aspects of strategic transactions.
Pricing
All prices listed reflect United States Dollars (USD)
| Registration Category | Early Bird | Standard | Onsite |
| Wednesday, November 19, 2025 – Friday, February 6, 2026 | Saturday, February 7, 2026 – Tuesday, March 17, 2026 | Wednesday, March 18 – Thursday, March 19, 2026 | |
| Member | $1,125.00 | $1,325.00 | $1,525.00 |
| Commercialization of Brands 2024-2025 Committee Member | $1,025.00 | $1,225.00 | $1,425.00 |
| Non-Member | $1,525.00 | $1,725.00 | $1,925.00 |
| Emeritus Member | $595.00 | $595.00 | $595.00 |
| Government | $595.00 | $595.00 | $595.00 |
| Non-Profit | $595.00 | $595.00 | $595.00 |
| University Member | $595.00 | $595.00 | $595.00 |
| Professor Member | $275.00 | $275.00 | $275.00 |
| Student Member | $125.00 | $125.00 | $125.00 |
Payment for our event registration is by credit card only and through our online system. Payment is due at the time of registration, and all transactions are subject to a 3.3% processing fee.
Credits & Substitutions
Credits & Substitutions
We encourage you to review our Event Policies, which apply to all INTA events.
Credits
To request a credit for the 2026 Business of M&A: Navigating the Convergence of Intangible Assets and Capital in the Age of AI Conference, please submit your request to INTA Member Operations stating in detail the reason for the credit request.
Full credits for the registration fee will be issued for requests shared with the INTA Member Operations team requested by Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 11:59 pm (U.S. Eastern Time).
No credits of registration fees will be given beyond Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 12:00 am (U.S. Eastern Time).
Substitutions
Your base registration for The 2026 Business of M&A: Navigating the Convergence of Intangible Assets and Capital in the Age of AI Conference is transferable to another person affiliated with your umbrella member organization. Add-on business development activities for the Annual Meeting are transferable to any other person registered for The 2026 Business of M&A Conference.
To facilitate the registration substitution process, please submit your Substitution Request Form to INTA Member Operations, stating in detail the reason for the substitution and the person attending in your place. If you would like to transfer your add-on business development activity to another person, please contact INTA Member Operations.
All substitution requests must be submitted by Monday, February 16, 2026, 11:59 pm (U.S. Eastern Time).
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Event Policies
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
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Registration and Fees
Registration Requirements
- All registrants for our events must be registered.
- Your registration entitles you to participate in the specific event that you registered for.
Member Registration Rates
- To enjoy the member registration rate for our event, your organization must already be a member in good standing at the time of registration and at the time of the event.
- If your organization chooses not to renew its membership and proceeds with your event registration, you will pay the non-member rate. However, the difference between the member and non-member registration rates will not be refunded if your organization renews the membership year after you register for the event.
Payment Method and Processing Fees
- Payment for our event registration is by credit card only through our online system. Payment is due at the time of registration, and all transactions are subject to a 3.3% processing fee.
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- Tuition assistance for our event is available to eligible practitioners who have a total individual income of less than US $35,000 a year or are currently unemployed. Proper documentation will be required. For more information or to request an application, please contact us.
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- Guests refer to spouses, partners, or children who are not IP or Trademark professionals.
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These sessions may be eligible for CLE credits, pending state approval. 
Wednesday, March 18 9:30 am–5:00 pm
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.
Moderator: Tiffany Shimada, Partner, Dorsey & Whitney (USA)
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.
Moderator: Dale Cendali, Partner, Kirkland & Ellis LLP (USA)
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.
Moderator: Melissa Alcantara, Partner, Leason Ellis (USA)
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.
Moderator: John Zevitas, Vice President of Group & Managing Legal Counsel, T. Rowe Price (USA)
Thursday, March 19 9:30 am–5:00 pm
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, Evaluating the Value of, and Integrating IP and AI Assets and Associated Risks
This session provides a comprehensive international exploration of IP due diligence in M&A, designed for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Learn how to systematically identify, report on and potentially impact the value of the IP, AI and other relevant non-IP assets, spot red flags and risks 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.
Moderator: Marc Lieberstein, Vice President, Associate General Counsel – Chief Intellectual Property Counsel, Worldpay (USA)
Speakers:
- Paul Anderson, SVP, General Counsel, Barstool Sports (USA)
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.
Moderator: Eva Toledo, Partner, Co-CEO, Padima (Spain)
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.
Moderator: Jeffrey Greene, Partner, Foley & Lardner (USA)
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.
Moderator: Courtney Laginess, Vice President, Associate General Counsel – Chief Intellectual Property Counsel, Worldpay (USA)
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.
Moderator: Donna Tobin, Partner, Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC (USA)
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.
1. Roles and Responsibilities in M&A
Explore the roles of different stakeholders across the M&A process with perspectives provided by in-house counsel, external counsel, and other stakeholders.
2. Financing and IP Holding Structures
Examine innovative financing models, tax-efficient IP holding companies, and underwriting practices where IP serves as core collateral.
3. Cross-Border and Geopolitical Challenges
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.
4. Technology, Cyber Risk, and Data Governance
Understand how cybersecurity, data privacy, and AI-related risks are influencing M&A strategies.
5. Deshoring, Reshoring, Friend Shoring, and Supply Chain Trends
Analyze how supply chain realignment and regionalization impacts IP deployment, deal structuring, valuation, deal execution, and strategic asset placement.
6. AI-Driven Valuation and IP-Capital Convergence
Discover how AI is revolutionizing IP valuation, predictive analytics, and deal modeling—driving the fusion of intangible assets with financial strategy.
7. Post-Deal Integration and Brand 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.
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Co-Chairs
Deirdre Davis
Vice President and Senior Counsel, IP
American Express
USA
David Kappos
Partner
Cravath, Swaine & Moore
USA
Project Team
Partner
Melissa Alcantara
Leason Ellis
USA
Partner
Dale Cendali
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
USA
Jeffrey Greene
Partner
Foley & Lardner
USA
Courtney Laginess
Vice President, Associate General Counsel - Chief Intellectual Property Counsel
Worldpay
USA
Marc Lieberstein
Trademark, Licensing and Franchise Partner
Akerman
USA
Sasha Rosenthal-Larrea
Partner
Cravath, Swaine & Moore
USA
Partner
Tiffany Shimada
Dorsey & Whitney
USA
Partner
Donna Tobin
Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC
USA
Partner, Co-CEO
Eva Toledo
Padima
Spain
Vice President of Group & Managing Legal Counsel
John Zevitas
T. Rowe Price
USA