Innovative groups including companies of all sizes, universities and individuals seek to maximise the value of their intellectual property by investing in R&D activities and pursuing patent protection. Medical device companies are particularly focused on converting R&D efforts into patent-protected products. However, these companies and innovators face constant challenges resulting from numerous changes in regulations, pricing coverage, tax regimes and IP rights. As a result, corresponding IP values within the medical device industry appear to be declining based on a study of identified licensing transactions and royalty rates. To improve IP value, licensors must focus on demonstrating product and technology value to differentiate their licensing opportunity from others on the market and to command higher royalty rates, better deal terms and potential multiple licensing opportunities across different end markets and licensees.
