Intellectual property rights are essential for a firm?s competitive edge and success and form the significant assets for many firms. The authors of this book argue that intellectual property is a complex phenomenon, which inevitably requires a combination of both economic and legal considerations, because the lack of understanding of the mechanisms for the protection and preservation of IP can serve to undermine any of the potential economic benefits.

The book outlines the opportunities that can be derived from the use of IP in business and also identifies the rules necessary for their implementation. It offers a comprehensive, systemic research of intellectual property based on the most up-to-date legislation and cases of IP use in Russia. Such an approach will allow readers to fully understand the peculiarities of IP as a special phenomenon of the Russian market. There is a good balance between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation, and the plain language and unique approach to structuring information make the book accessible and easy to understand. It contains a special glossary of terms to facilitate the understanding of the material presented in the book.

Although the book looks specifically at the Russian case, it will have international appeal, since intellectual property, by its very nature, has become a transnational phenomenon. Moreover, the international regulatory framework provides for the similarity of legal regulation of IP. The book will find an audience among researchers concerned with the economics and law of intellectual property, as well as, policymakers and practitioners involved in business IP.