News

Bay Area Economy Metrics 2024

As the year nears an end let’s revisit where the Bay Area’s stands in its long recovery from the pandemic. What we’re seeing is consistent with what the Economic Institute reported last Spring and before that in 2023: a mixed story of slow progress in addressing underlying challenges combined with resurgent innovation at the research and business level. Details are in the attachment.  Here are some high-level takeaways:  The Underlying Economy  Job recovery lags California and the nation, largely due to

British Airways to Lead UK in Carbon Removals for 2030 Environmental Goal

  British Airways has signed a deal to purchase more than £9 million worth of innovative carbon removals credits in the United Kingdom and overseas as part of a six-year agreement. The deal is part of an ambitious drive to accelerate the airline’s climate change efforts between now and 2030. One ground-breaking scheme in Scotland will see CO2 emissions captured from whisky distilleries and repurposed into building materials. Another, spread across multiple locations in the UK, uses an enhanced rock

Corporate Housing, Airbnb or Hotels: What's Best for Business Travel?

November 6, 2024  As business travel evolves, companies are increasingly turning to diverse accommodation options to meet cost-saving goals and cater to individual traveler preferences. Corporate housing, Airbnb and hotels all have their place in this landscape, offering a range of options in both price and experience.   While the idea of choice may seem like a solution to rising travel costs, it comes with potential risks to safety and efficiency. By prioritizing cost-saving measures and individual

Inspire Business Law Group Expands to London for Seamless Cross-Border Solutions

Opening New Horizons: Inspire Business Law Group Expands to London Inspire Business Law Group has strategically expanded its reach, now with offices in New York, San Francisco, and London, responding to the growing demand for cross-border legal expertise in key global markets. Our expansion to London is a milestone that extends our capability to support clients in the US and the UK, particularly in the tech-forward cities of San Francisco, New York, and London.  This new office will be led by Edward

Top Trends in Branded Event Merch for 2024

 Kara Daines  You want to elevate your event marketing campaigns with fresh, exciting materials that captivate and engage your target audience. You need unique branded merch, box kits, and swag bags to standout. But, where to start? Enter Almaden’s 2024 Event Lookbook. It may not solve all your problems, but it will strengthen the engagement at your next event! The State of Event Marketing Before we dive into the top trends that will help you this year, let’s get some context. Did you know that 63% of

Acquihiring in the UK: what US tech companies must know to acquire top tech talent

The number of US tech companies acquihiring in the UK is rapidly increasing, but cross-border acquisitions bring added complexity. To succeed, effective acquihire strategies for US companies are essential.What is acquihiring? Acquihiring generally refers to the acquisition of a company primarily to hire its employees rather than to gain its products or services. Acquihiring can also refer to the hiring of a team of employees and the licensing of the target company’s intellectual property (IP). The

Imperial College London has announced its first physical presence in the US, with a new hub located in San Francisco.

Imperial College London has announced its first physical presence in the US, with a new hub located in San Francisco. The new San Francisco hub will be launched in October to bring Imperial’s world leading science and tech research closer to the centre of global venture capital. Imperial’s presence in the Bay Area is part of the Imperial Global strategy which has seen a hub open in Singapore, and new hubs planned in Ghana and India. The San Francisco hub will officially launch at Imperial’s first major

Webinar: Navigating the 2024 R&D tax relief landscape

View Webinar here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrVwjvL0Cf4   Webinar: Navigating the 2024 R&D tax relief landscape2 October 2024 / Insight posted in Webinars The past year has presented significant challenges for companies relying on government incentives to fund their innovation. With substantial changes to R&D tax reliefs in 2024, primarily through the introduction of the ‘merged’ scheme, alongside heightened HMRC scrutiny to combat fraud and abuse, it’s more crucial than ever for businesses to

Moore Kingston Smith Legal Team Launches Business and Private Immigration Service

Moore Kingston Smith has launched its immigration legal services, spearheaded by newly recruited Director of Immigration Legal Services, Rebecca Hone.  The new immigration legal services sit alongside their existing legal offering for businesses and private individuals.     Alongside colleagues from the Moore Global network, they frequently advise businesses based in North America, Europe and Asia as they establish or expand their UK operations. The new immigration legal services are born out of

Grant Thornton: CFOs navigate economic and political volatility

The drop in confidence in key fundamentals displayed in Grant Thornton's CFO survey for the third quarter of 2024 reflected the political and economic turbulence of the time. The survey began soon after Joe Biden exited the presidential race, and a significant stock market mini-slump occurred while the survey was in the field.  In this environment, finance leaders' confidence in factors such as their ability to meet increased demand and cost control goals sank. But CFOs remained confident in their

Lewis & Llewellyn Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers

We are pleased to announce that five Lewis & Llewellyn attorneys were recently named by Best Lawyers as leaders in their field for the 2025 edition.  Evangeline A.Z. Burbidge was selected by Best Lawyers as one of the Best Lawyers in America for her high caliber work and excellence in practice as a commercial litigator. Additionally, Lewis & Llewellyn attorneys Becca Furman, Brad Estes, John Frost and Zachary Floodwere recognized as “Ones to Watch,” an award given to attorneys who are in the earlier stages

Navigating Sustainable Corporate Travel with Serviced Apartments

Navigating Sustainable Corporate Travel with Serviced Apartments  by Synergy Global Housing   Is it safe to say that companies are fully committed to sustainable corporate travel? If recent RFPs are any indication, we’d say yes. Global businesses are no longer looking for sustainability mission statements packed with green buzzwords. Nope, they want evidence. And why not? Green business is good business. Zooming out, nations and regions worldwide are implementing sustainability policies and regulations

Welcome to Grant Thornton

How Should I Create A Moving Budget?

Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure, but it can also be a significant financial undertaking. A proper moving budget can help alleviate some of the stress and ensure that you’re financially prepared for all aspects of your move.  Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to budget effectively for your move: MOVING COMPANY VS. DO IT YOURSELF When budgeting for your move, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to hire a professional moving company or to do it

Considerations When Expanding Your Company’s Global Footprint

As commerce becomes increasingly integrated on a global scale, many companies areventuring into international waters. Facilitated, in part, by technological advancements,we’re seeing capital, goods, labor and services flow more freely across borders than ever before.  Handling overseas financial transactions, like managing currency exposures, pricing, foreign bank services and overseas counterparty risks,can be challengingfor treasury staff.With that in mind, here are some key considerations when expanding

Creating an AI Strategy for your Team and Organization

Our Corporate PLUS Member Denton's presents an excellent webinar on how companies can best create an AI Strategy for their Teams and Organization, also sharing key global AI regulatory developments and implications for business and in-house legal teams.

CliftonLarsonAllen at the Startup World Cup

CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen) proudly co-sponsored the Startup World Cup event held at the iconic Computer History Museum in Silicon Valley. The event showcased the innovative spirit of the Global Start Up Capital and provided a platform for startups to connect, network, and learn from each other.   The event featured CLA's Tax Leader, Stephen Estes, CPA, who presented CLA's services on stage in front of the attendees. CLA is committed to supporting startups and offers a range of services, including accounting

Employment Law Alert UK – August 2024

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Retraction of job offer from Christian social worker was direct discrimination. The Employment Tribunal held that the Claimant was discriminated against on the grounds of his religious beliefs when the Respondent rescinded a job offer which they had made to him. The Claimant is a Christian and qualified social worker. He applied for a role at the Respondent, which is a charity providing mental health services. The Claimant was offered the role subject to receiving satisfactory

How Companies Get Acquired - Lessons from 45,000 Startups

How Companies Get Acquired – Lessons from 45,000 Startups  We’re reaching out to share Woodside Capital Partners’ new report “How Companies Get Acquired – Lessons from 45,000 Startups”. In the report, we reveal new insights about investments, ROI, time-to-exit, exit size, impact of capital raised, success factors, and about company failures from a large proprietary data set supplied by Pitchbook. We also review tech M&A in the first half of 2024. Preview below.  Click here to download the report.   In

Evangeline Burbidge Named to Daily Journal’s Top Women Lawyers of 2024

We are thrilled to announce that our partner Evangeline Burbidge has been named by the Daily Journal as one of the Top Women Lawyers for 2024.  The annual award recognizes and honors the best 100 women lawyers practicing in the state of California.Evan is an experienced litigator who represents both plaintiffs and defendants, focusing on trade secret theft litigation, contract disputes, and founders’ disputes. In the past three years, she has obtained over $50 million in judgments for our clients and has

International Business Expansion Solutions, Presented by HSBC

Running a business is challenging, especially when you’re looking to grow internationally. With multiple accounts across the world, different financing options in different countries, inefficiencies in levels of capital and liquidity and frequent barriers to entry in new markets. HSBC can be your dedicated partner, delivering a consistent international banking experience, with solutions tailored to the unique needs of your business. With the depth and breadth of both our network and products, we are

Smart Strategies for Cost-Effective Corporate Housing

  Employee experience remains a key indicator of a successful mobility program. However, budgets are unlikely to grow in proportion to rising costs and a steady or increasing volume of relocations. So, how can you achieve more with less in your corporate housing program? By making strategic decisions in your temporary living policy, you can maximize your existing budget without compromising on the essential elements.  Determine What’s Important  No two relocation or business travel programs are

PurposeFused: Vitality and Purpose: A Leaders Guide to Thriving in Work and Life

In our journey through life, vitality and purpose stand as the pillars that support our overall well-being and success. As leaders and individuals, understanding and harnessing these elements can transform not only our lives but also the lives of those around us. This article is supplemented by a series of five videos (links embedded at the bottom) for those who would like to spend a little more time on each area. Use this as a guide to help you explore the interconnectedness of vitality and purpose,

California Employers with 1 or more employees are required by Law to offer a qualified Retirement Plan

By Brad Stephens, Tamalpais Asset Management  Changing Environment for Retirement Savings   As of 2024, employers with one or more employees are currently required by law to either offer their own qualified retirement plan or register for CalSavers. The CalSavers Retirement Savings Trust Act was enacted by the state of California in 2016 to address a gap in retirement savings options for many private-sector workers. Its goal is to make retirement savings more accessible to California

A Message to BABC Members From the Atlas Foundation Americas

Atlas Foundation Americas has had great success in supporting inner-city children around the world through the game of rugby. In addition to improving personal fitness and general health, Atlas-funded programs provide a host of services that under-resourced, inner-city communities can rarely offer. Through the funding of inner-city rugby, participating kids can receive health education and services, academic support, life mentoring and college scholarship contributions. Atlas is engaged in 19 countries

Safari Consultants: 6 Six Activities in Southern Africa

Southern Africa offers a rich tapestry of activities that cater to a wide range of interests, from thrilling wildlife encounters to awe-inspiring natural wonders and vibrant cultural experiences. Here are the top six activities to consider:   1. Safari in the private reserves bordering the Kruger National Park (South Africa) The Greater Kruger is one of the largest and most renowned safari destinations in Africa. The Kruger National Park itself has a good network of tarmac roads and rest camps which

London Most Supportive Hub for Developing AI According to International Business Leaders

New research by London & Partners shows that over three-quarters (77%) of international business leaders in the AI sector consider London to be more supportive of AI development than other leading AI hubs. These findings come as international delegates gather in the capital for London Tech Week, Europe’s hottest tech event. Nearly half (45%) of respondents cited supportive government incentives and policies tailored for AI development as London’s key advantage, while 44% highlighted access to

The Future of Climate Tech 2024, Presented by Silicon Valley Bank (SVB)

While the challenges to avert climate change remain considerable, the long-term technology trends are clear and bright. It is now cheaper to develop new renewable energy than it is to maintain fossil fuel generation. Roughly 88% of global carbon emissions are now covered by a net zero goal, and policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are beginning to have a meaningful impact on advancing climate tech solutions and businesses. Entrepreneurs and investors are increasingly turning attention to

Introducing our New Brand

After 41 years of business, we are delighted to introduce you to our exciting new branding. With a simpler logo of an iconic giraffe and a more vibrant green colour, we wanted to bring a more modern edge to our branding, without moving away from our core ethos of being a grounded company with a focus on expert advice and personal service. Maintaining the green in our branding reflects the importance of Africa’s wild spaces – representing the incredible natural world experiences we create for our clients;

Ace Relocation Services Expands Operations in Auburn, WA

Ace Relocation Systems, a premier provider of relocation and storage solutions, is excited to unveil its latest milestone: the acquisition of a spacious, cutting-edge facility in Auburn, Washington. This strategic move represents a significant advancement for the company as it strives to elevate its services and cater even more effectively to its clientele. The newly acquired facility, slated to replace Ace Relocation’s existing premises in Sumner, WA, boasts an expansive 108,000 square feet. Ace will

Bird & Bird's International Green Hydrogen Report 2024

Bird and Bird are delighted to announce the 2024 edition of our International Green Hydrogen Report. A successful energy transition can only be achieved by combining security of supply, affordability and environmental compatibility with innovative and intelligent climate protection. This requires an alternative option to the fossil fuels that are predominantly used today, and hydrogen has a key role to play in the energy transition. In addition to numerous other advantages as a renewable energy carrier,

StartUp Grind's James Gee Published in Forbes Magazine

“The entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Bay Area is like no other.” James Gee, Global Partnerships Manager at Startup Grind, the leading global startup community dedicated to fostering the growth of early-stage companies, explains, “Here, innovation isn't just encouraged, it's a way of life. The huge number of brilliant minds means that investors are competing to fund the next big thing, and with a culture that celebrates risk-taking, it creates an environment that fosters unparalleled growth and

The Meaning of Brexit and the Future of the United Kingdom

On April 10, 2024, the Institute of European Studies hosted Professor David Reynolds for his lecture, “The Meaning of Brexit and the Future of the United Kingdom.” Professor of History at Cambridge University and Fellow of Christ’s College, Reynolds came to Berkeley as a recognized scholar widely featured on television and radio, with publications on Anglo-American relations, global history, US history, and British history. In a room of 40 people, Reynolds presented on the history of Brexit, and what this

Travel Buyer Insight: Trends and Challenges Affecting Corporate Housing

  Perspectives from Synergy’s Global Supply Chain Team In the ever-evolving landscape of providing furnished housing for corporate travel and mobility, accommodation providers find themselves navigating a sea of challenges. From disruptive technology to government regulation to evolving guest preferences and the tightening of travel budgets, there’s a lot happening in the sector. Here, we cover some of the most impactful occurrences that affect the delivery of successful corporate stay programs.Focus on

Safari Consultants: Top 3 Iconic Safari Destinations in Africa to visit, presented by Safari Consultants

2024 Top 3 Iconic Safari Destinations in Africa to visit: Kenya’s Masai Mara, Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Zambia’s South Luangwa   Africa’s famous safari destinations, the Masai Mara, Okavango Delta and the South Luangwa, beckon travellers with their exceptional wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes. While all offer unforgettable safari experiences, each boasts its own unique allure and distinct ecosystem. These safari areas offer unparalleled opportunities to witness Africa’s incredible

Need to Generate Liquidity from your Business? A Minority Recapitalisation may be the Answer

  Business owners may find themselves in situations where they wish to release large amounts of liquidity from their business, whilst retaining overall control of their company.  A minority recap may be the solution.  This typically combines different tranches of debt with the issue of new preference shares to enhance your company’s debt capacity. Key determining metrics are EBITDA and operating cash flow multiples.Senior debt – including tranches of asset-based loans and traditional bank loans secured

Across the Pond Case Study: The Future of Health

Google Health wanted to visualise how AI could positively transform the world of health in 5-10 years. What might this look like? Personalised insights generated from your wearable data? Health history? Even genomic information? Overall, there will be a much more personalised health experience. We wrote and produced a film to launch The Check Up, a health conference, run by Google for health industry professionals, featuring Chief Health Officer Karen DeSalvo.  Check it out at the link

Bird & Bird's ESG Navigator: Simplifying the ESG regulatory landscape

Organizations are undergoing a fundamental shift towards a more sustainable way of operating. With increasing pressure from stakeholders and developing legal requirements, you need to be able to demonstrate your ESG progress and compliance. Are you compliant with the upcoming regulatory requirements in ESG? How can you change the way you do things to become a good global citizen? How can you create innovative sources of stakeholder value as part of the shift to a more sustainable future? These are all

''No-Deal'' Brexit Checklist for Technology and Communications Businesses

The prospect of the United Kingdom making a no deal Brexit departure from the EU is now very real. The UK Prime Minister has been very clear that he intends to ensure that the UK leaves the EU by 31 October 2019. Technology and communications businesses need to prepare for the commercial impact. Our team of specialists at Bird & Bird have provided an update to our "No-Deal" Brexit Checklist for Technology & Communications companies which identifies key considerations to bear in mind for areas such as