International Journal of Intellectual Property Management (18 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Intentions to upgrade software: evidence from Microsoft Windows users  
  by Thuy Dung Pham Thi, Nam Tien Duong 
  Abstract: In the business market, planned obsolescence is a marketing strategy employed by manufacturers to encourage consumers to purchase new products through frequent design updates and discontinuation of product maintenance and updates, thereby generating more profits. Therefore, this study adopts a perspective of planned obsolescence and integrates it with the push-pull-mooring model to establish a model for operating system upgrades and explore users intentions towards both genuine and pirated upgrade options. A questionnaire was administered to 296 Windows users, and the proposed model and hypotheses were validated using the PLS statistical software. The results indicate that planned obsolescence positively influences intentions for both genuine and pirated upgrades. Subjective norms and relative advantage positively influence users intentions to upgrade to genuine versions, while switching costs increase intentions for pirated upgrades and negatively influence intentions for genuine upgrades.
  Keywords: upgrade; windows; obsolescence; planned; intentions.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2024.10068662
   
  
• Evolving copyright paradigms in the age of live streaming in music and video piracies  
  by Aranya Nath, Gautami Chakravarty 
  Abstract: Modern technology, including artificial intelligence and chatbots, has revolutionised our lives, but it also has its downsides. Creativity and innovation are crucial for civilisations, and copyright protection is essential for preserving scientific and creative works. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in digital piracy, with illegal installations of taped broadcasts on user upload platforms (UUPs) causing a surge in piracy. In India, circumvention is considered a standalone violation despite copyright provisions and criminal penalties being provided for those who violate Digital Rights Management (DRM). Fair use acts are not punishable by law, and manufacturers and providers of DRM circumvention technology are not liable. This lack of enforcement hinders intellectual property rights progress and the digital ages growth. Comparative analysis of other countries laws is necessary to improve security in the digital age.
  Keywords: copyright law; live streaming piracy; content protection; digital rights management; streaming platforms.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2024.10068710
   
  
• Catalysing circularity: tackling intellectual property barriers to technology transfer and circular solutions in developing economies  
  by Latika Choudhary, Hardik Daga 
  Abstract: The imperative for transitioning to a circular economy is widely acknowledged as urgent. While the problems related to this transformation may differ among nations, it is crucial to perceive them as opportunities. One of the many challenges to this transformation is the significant lack of appropriate technologies. Facilitating the transfer of technology is becoming an essential requirement. Nevertheless, there are ongoing difficulties related to matters of ownership and the effective transfer of information, comprising both explicit and implicit or tacit knowledge. Given these difficulties, this study intends to offer practical insights and effective remedies for managing the obstacles of moving to a circular economy by systematically exploring options related to technical transfer, ownership delineation, and knowledge dissemination. By elucidating pathways to surmount these hurdles, this research endeavours to contribute to the advancement of circular economic paradigms on a global scale.
  Keywords: circular economy; technology transfer; tacit knowledge; knowledge leakage; IP ownership.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2024.10068905
   
  
• Beyond marketing: the motivation and challenge chapters behind Kumamons trademark management  
  by Chi-Fong Feng, Yu-Chan Chiu, Li-Chun Huang 
  Abstract: This study explores the unconventional trademark management strategies used by the Kumamoto Government to manage Kumamon, a mascot with widespread popularity in Asia, the US, and Europe. We investigate the motivations behind the governments shift in its trademark portfolio, focusing on the influence of collective intelligence (CI) in shaping these decisions. Through qualitative document analysis, we assess the role of CI, stakeholder collaboration, and legal factors in the Kumamoto Governments trademark strategy. Our findings reveal that CI significantly impacted these trademark decisions, while also identifying legal and business challenges related to rights ownership, estoppel, and trademark ownership. This research broadens the discussion beyond traditional marketing, contributing to the understanding of how CI affects brand image in the digital age. It also highlights the legal complexities of collaboratively created intellectual property, offering new insights into marketing management.
  Keywords: collective intelligence; Kumamon; ownership; trademark management.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2024.10069043
   
  
• Transforming sustainability via competition law: a cutting-edge global framework for intellectual property  
  by R. Gokul, E. Prema 
  Abstract: European Union (EU) competition law aims to maintain and boost economic efficiency, which enhances consumer welfare by preventing innovation- or static-driven anti-competitive activity. IP rights must be preserved to promote sustainable innovation. Company, global, and functional enterprises, goods, and services value Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs). It explores the complicated relationships between IP rights, competition law, and sustainability, creating a new paradigm for accomplishing the SDGs. The report examines Intellectual Property Rights, competition law enforcement, and sustainability factors like environmental impact, social responsibility, economic viability, and technological innovation in 15 nations from 2000 to 2023. Regression analysis and panel corrected standard errors show that strong competition law enforcement boosts IPs role in green innovation, market competitiveness, and equitable technology access. Important studies show that competition rules increase intellectual propertys sustainability, but poor enforcement reduces their usefulness. The study stresses that IP and competition rules must be harmonised for sustainability. Cross-tabulation and correlation analysis show how IP affects sustainability measures differently due to anti-competitive activity and market dominance rules. After analysing these relationships, the research makes policy proposals to align economic and legal systems with sustainability goals and enable innovation-driven, just global development.
  Keywords: intellectual property; competition law; sustainability; European Union; EU; green innovation; market competitiveness; Sustainable Development Goals; SDGs.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2024.10069560
   
  
• Inventors knowledge acquisition, self-innovation efficiency, and the role of organisation for patenting in high-quality green patent production in China  
  by Gao Yuan, Rahimi Abidin, Faisal Zulhumadi 
  Abstract: This research addressed the gaps in literature by measuring inventors knowledge acquisition ability and self-innovation efficiency and analysing the moderating role of the organisation for patenting, which refers to the internal structures, strategies, and management practices within firms that support patenting activities, such as patent culture, rewarding mechanisms, patent committees, and top management involvement. This concept is distinct from external patent-granting organisations and highlights how firms can internally enhance their ability to secure high-quality patents. A five-point Likert scale questionnaire was used for data collection using convenience sampling. 352 respondents of this research were professionals who hold formal positions in green innovation enterprises in China. The findings of measurement model assessment and structural model assessment were used for the analysis of data using Smart PLS 4. The study found significant correlations between inventors knowledge acquisition ability, self-innovation efficiency, and the role of firm-level patent organisations in high-quality green patent production. The study provides practical implications for firms to grant high-quality green patents successfully.
  Keywords: inventor’s knowledge acquisition; self-innovation efficiency; high-quality green patent; patent organisation; China.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10071650
   
  
• Unveiling the drivers of CSR disclosure in emerging economies: the role of boardrooms, firm characteristics and political stability in Palestine  
  by Ammar Salem, Alaa Jarrar, Raed Abdelhaq, Abdulnaser Ibrahim Nour, Abdalmuttaleb M.A. Musleh Al-Sartawi 
  Abstract: This study investigates the impact of board structure, firm characteristics, and political stability on the corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure of Palestine Exchange (PEX)-listed companies over the 20142023 period. Using 430 firm-year observations of 43 firms, CSR disclosure was measured with a 28-item index. Results indicate that board independence and political stability are negatively associated with CSR disclosure, while audit committee presence, firm age, and firm size have positive effects. CEO duality, gender diversity, board meetings, board education, profitability, and leverage were not significant. Overall, the Palestinian firms disclosed 46% of the CSR index items, with evidence of a strong negative association between political stability and CSR disclosure. The findings demonstrate significant implications for policymakers and regulators to embrace improved governance practices and implement standardised CSR measurement tools to promote transparency and accountability in emerging economies.
  Keywords: CSR disclosure; board composition; Palestine Exchange; PEX; political stability; CSR index; firm characteristics; political stability; Palestine.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10073669
   
  
• Investigating service quality, perceived risk, and marketing strategies to enhance perceived value in online shopping  
  by Huy Mach Tran, Thuy Dung Pham Thi 
  Abstract: This study examines how personalised marketing (PM) and external cues influence customer-perceived value in e-commerce using the S-O-R framework. PM and external cues act as stimuli affecting service quality and perceived risk, which mediate their impact on customer-perceived value. Structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis of e-commerce user data shows that PM enhances service quality, reduces perceived risks, and boosts customer-perceived value. External cues, like brand reputation and pricing transparency, also lower risks and improve service quality perceptions. The findings underscore the importance of PM, effective external cues, and risk mitigation strategies, offering actionable insights for enhancing trust, engagement, and competitive advantage in online marketplaces. This study advances knowledge by examining the interplay between personalised marketing (PM), external cues, and customer-perceived value in e-commerce through the S-O-R framework. By highlighting the mediating roles of service quality and perceived risk, it provides novel insights into how PM and external cues enhance value perception. The findings offer practical implications for e-commerce managers, emphasising strategies to foster trust, improve engagement, and strengthen competitive advantage in online marketplaces.
  Keywords: service quality; risk; value; marketing strategies; online shopping.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10073798
   
  
• Intellectual property in short-, medium-, and long-term planning: alternative paths for commercialising  
  by Anargul Tapalchinova, Aigul Alibekova, Myrzabek Zhanat, Maiya Kayumova, Nataliia Fominykh 
  Abstract: The aim of this research is to outline the spectrum of paths for commercialising intellectual property and to identify the most advantageous approaches for different planning timeframes (short-term, medium-term, and long-term). The approximation of trend dynamics for the analysis and forecasting of changes in the field of intellectual property has enabled the identification of key patterns and conclusions regarding the current state and future prospects of this sector, with a focus on Kazakhstan. An analysis of business practices in the field of intellectual property over the past two decades has highlighted major innovation holders. Cluster analysis has grouped countries based on similar intellectual property creation indicators, allowing for the identification of groups of countries with comparable levels of activity and characteristics in this area. This facilitated the development of recommendations for enhancing the national intellectual property system, drawing on successful international practices.
  Keywords: academic entrepreneurship; business protection; clustering; innovation economy; intellectual property rights.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10073896
   
  
• Metaverse medicine: pioneering anti-aging solutions in virtual healthcare  
  by Dileep Kumar Murala 
  Abstract: Metaverse technology intrigues academia and industry. Several stakeholders are considering metaverse expansion for app usability. Healthcare uses the Metaverse to improve services and lives. Metaverse technology intrigues academia and industry. Several stakeholders are considering metaverse expansion for app usability. Healthcare uses the Metaverse to improve services and lives. By studying metaverse-based digital anti-aging healthcare, we demonstrate how metaverse applications in chronic illness treatment, exercise, and mental health monitoring increase healthcare and patient longevity. The Metaverse creates new healthcare choices using AI, Blockchain, IoT, DT, and IT. These technologies help doctors improve patient outcomes, decrease costs, and offer novel, longevity-promoting experiences. Blockchain securely and transparently keeps healthcare data, while AI can evaluate massive databases and recommend therapies. Therapeutic IoT devices collect real-time patient data. These technologies could revolutionise healthcare and boost patient well-being worldwide. This study advises developing digital anti-aging for customers to live longer.
  Keywords: healthcare; virtual reality; artificial intelligence; blockchain; internet of things; immersive technology; digital twin technology.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10074281
   
  
• Corporate transparency under pressure: the association between corporate social responsibility disclosure and earnings management in contexts of political instability  
  by Duha Jamal Rabaia, Alaa Jarrar, Raed Abdelhaq, Rahma Odeh, Jawad Zaki Eleyan, Mays Mubaslat, Abdulnaser Ibrahim Nour 
  Abstract: Corporate transparency is both challenging and essential in politically unstable environments. This study investigates the association between corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure and earnings management (EM) in Palestine, a market characterised by economic uncertainty and political instability. A content analysis approach was applied to a balanced panel of 430 firm-year observations from 43 companies listed on the Palestine Stock Exchange during 20152024. CSR disclosure was measured using an index adapted from the Global Reporting Initiative, while EM was proxied by discretionary accruals estimated through the Kothari model. The findings reveal a significant negative association between CSR disclosure and EM, showing that firms with higher CSR transparency are less likely to EM. Political stability also shows a significant negative effect on EM, showing that higher political stability is associated with lower EM. Moreover, leverage and profitability are positively associated with EM. These results align with agency, stakeholder, and legitimacy theories, underlining the importance of CSR in strengthening governance and stakeholder trust. This research contributes to the limited literature on CSR and EM in politically unstable contexts and provides practical implications for regulators looking to reinforce governance systems and enhance financial transparency.
  Keywords: earnings management; corporate social responsibility disclosure; political stability; Palestine Stock Exchange.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10074319
   
  
• Patent protection by publicly funded R&D institutions with their research collaborators a case study from India  
  by Venkataraman Parthasarathy, Shruti Hapse, E. Muthukumar 
  Abstract: Collaborating for research is common R&D practices for development of new process and product. Several R&D institutions collaborate and showed their output in terms of research publication and patents. The information related to research collaborations can be retrieved from the assignee data available in patent databases. R&D institutions in India are allocated with budget from government. There are reports available on R&D institutions regarding their R&D output and outcomes, however, there is no specific study related to how government R&D institutions have explored opportunities in collaborations with other institutions. Hence, there is need to study collaborations by publicly funded R&D institutions in India by using patent information. This article includes collaborations between government and private organisations. It highlights perceptive from technology focused in collaborated patents. This study found that collaborative research have output in terms of the patents; however, the outcomes in terms of commercialisation were found to be low.
  Keywords: research collaboration; patents; assignee; technology area; international patent classification; IPC; public institution; private organisation; research and development; R&D; commercialisation; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10074484
   
  
• Intellectual property at a crossroads: AIs impact on US copyright law  
  by Mohammad Reza Khonaksar, Farzane Karimi 
  Abstract: The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) in generating autonomous creative works challenges copyright law's foundational principles of human authorship. This article analyses the complex interplay between US copyright law and AI-generated content, highlighting the legal ambiguities that arise. As AIs creative capacities outstrip existing legal frameworks, the need for doctrinal adaptation becomes evident. We explore potential authorship frameworks, including AI as author, computational co-authorship, and the traditional tool-user approach. Through analysis of recent case law, notably Kashtanova v. Stable Diffusion, we illustrate the challenges in recognising AIs role within legal constructs that require human creative input. We also address the implications for fair use and the public domain, proposing that copyright law may need significant reform. This exploration seeks to reconcile AIs role with the incentive structures for human creativity. Our findings advocate for a dynamic legal framework that supports innovation while ensuring copyright continues to serve its constitutional purpose.
  Keywords: artificial intelligence; copyright law; AI authorship; computational creativity; intellectual property; fair use; public domain; digital copyright; human collaboration; legal frameworks for AI; AI-generated content.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10075042
   
  
• From ideas to management: a bibliometric perspective on intellectual property rights management research  
  by Esra Dundar Aravacik, Serhat Burmaoglu 
  Abstract: n a rapidly evolving technological landscape, intellectual property rights management (IPRM) has become crucial for innovation and competitiveness. This study explores the conceptual evolution and trends, cognitive background, and collaborative dynamics of IPRM from 1991 to 2023. It identifies a significant increase in IPRM publications since 1997, peaking in 2019, highlighting its growing relevance in engineering and life sciences. Keyword analysis reveals expanded focus areas including 'intellectual property', 'patent management', 'blockchain' and 'open innovation', with 'intellectual property' central in co-word and trend analysis linked to 'innovation' and 'technology transfer'. This underscores the strategic role of IP in fostering innovation. Additionally, the co-citation analysis findings advocate for an integrated approach to IPRM, reflecting its evolution towards strategic management and emphasising the importance of collaborative and non-traditional innovation models. This research is pivotal for shaping future technology analysis and management strategies, highlighting the strategic imperative of IPRM in a connected world.
  Keywords: intellectual property rights management; IPRM; intellectual property; management; strategic management of intellectual property; patent; innovative technologies; intellectual property rights; IPR.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2024.10068372
   
  
• Harmonising the see-saw of conflicts: mitigation of regulatory clashes for enhancing cooperation between CCI and IP authorities  
  by Latika Choudhary, Aratrika Deb 
  Abstract: The Competition Commission of India (CCI), established in 2002, ensures fair competition and competitive neutrality. Alongside, sector-specific regulators address technical issues and align objectives with broader economic goals. Collaboration between CCI and these regulators is emphasised but often hindered by jurisdictional ambiguities. While sectoral regulators focus on structural issues, CCI examines post facto behavioural aspects to foster economic growth. Intellectual property regulation is one area where sectoral regulators lack competition-specific guidelines, risking overregulation and stifling competition. CCI's role in penalising anti-competitive behaviour and offering settlements, absent in IP authorities, is crucial for addressing such conduct in IP-intensive sectors. Effective enforcement of competition laws requires alignment between CCI and IP regulators. This paper examines jurisdictional conflicts between CCI and IP authorities, proposing approaches for harmonised efforts to address anti-competitive behaviour, ensuring economic goals like public goods distribution and employment generation are not adversely affected.
  Keywords: anti-competitive; IP&Competition; jurisdictional conflict; Competition Commission of India; CCI; harmonising efforts.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2024.10068750
   
  
• Intellectual capital and financial performance nexus in Indian public sector banks  
  by Mithilesh Gidage, Shilpa Bhide 
  Abstract: This study delves into the impact of intellectual capital (IC) on the financial performance (FP) of Indian public sector banks (IPSBs) over the period from 2013 to 2023. Utilising the modified value-added intellectual coefficient (MVAIC) methodology, we gauge IC and apply a panel data estimation approach, specifically the generalised method of moments (GMM), to examine the relationship between IC and FP indicators. Our findings highlight significant influences of IC components - namely, human capital (HC), capital employed (CE), structural capital (SC), and relational capital (RC) - on FP metrics including return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), return on capital employed (ROCE), earnings per share (EPS), and Tobin's Q. Noteworthy is the favourable impact of MVAIC on both ROA and ROE. Additionally, the study reveals a negative correlation between leveraging and financial indicators, suggesting adverse effects of heightened debt on bank value. The objective of this research is to offer insights to stakeholders and policymakers on optimising the allocation of IC for sustainable FP and value generation within Indian IPSBs.
  Keywords: intellectual capital; Indian public sector banks; IPSBs; modified value-added intellectual coefficient; MVAIC; generalised method of moments; GMM; return on assets; ROA; human capital.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10074872
   
  
• Brand protection in India's digital economy: trademarks vs. competition regulation  
  by Ipsita Das, Aranya Nath, Anusuya Ghosh, Anas Mhanna 
  Abstract: The digital economy in India has significantly impacted brand protection, with the need for robust trademark protection intensifying to combat issues like counterfeiting, cybersquatting, and unauthorised use. Competition regulation aims to ensure fair market practices, prevent monopolistic behaviour, and foster innovation. This study examines the legislative and judicial framework governing trademarks in India, highlighting key provisions under the Trade Marks Act, of 1999, and their application in the digital context. It also assesses the role of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) in addressing anti-competitive practices. The study identifies tensions and synergies between trademark protection and competition regulation, examining how digital platforms, e-commerce, and social media influence these legal domains. Comparing the study with jurisdictions like the EU and the USA, the paper proposes a balanced approach that harmonises trademark enforcement with competition law principles to ensure brand protection efforts do not stifle competition and innovation in India's burgeoning digital economy. Recommendations include policy reforms, enhanced cooperation between regulatory bodies, and the adoption of technology-driven solutions to safeguard brands while promoting a competitive and fair digital marketplace.
  Keywords: brand protection; trademarks; competition regulation; Indian digital economy; intellectual property rights; IPR; e-commerce; digital marketplaces; competition law.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2024.10068752
   
  
• Graphical representation for registration of non-traditional trademark under Malaysian and UK trademark law  
  by Siti Baqiuratul Zahraa, Zinatul Ashiqin Zainol 
  Abstract: Graphical representation is an important requirement for the registration of non-traditional trademarks (NTMs) in Malaysia. An NTM refers to the unconventional marks which consist of scent, sound, shape, motion, position, texture mark, etc. The statutory provision under the Malaysian Trademark Act of 2019 is Pari Materia to the UK Trademark Act of 1994, before its amendment in 2017, which required graphical representation for the registration of NTM. The graphical representation requirement proved to be too high a standard to fulfil, and in 2017, the UK law was amended. Because of the amendments, there were slight improvements in the registrations of several NTMs post-2017, such as motion, multimedia and pattern marks, in the UK. This article examines whether the Malaysian Trademark Act 2019 should be further amended to follow the current UK trademark law, which replaced the graphical representation with the clear and precise requirements.
  Keywords: non-traditional trademark; graphical representation; Malaysian Trademark Act 2019.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJIPM.2025.10074873