Flutter Entertainment, an Irish gambling giant, is set to appeal a $330 million damages claim imposed on its Georgian subsidiary, Adjarabet. The ruling was made by a Georgian court, holding Adjarabet and iGaming developer Spribe responsible for trademark and copyright infringement related to the “Aviator” crash game.
Aviator LLC, a former shareholder in Adjarabet, owns the trademarks associated with the Aviator brand for use in both online and physical gambling services. Flutter has contested the court’s decision, stating that the damages sought are disproportionate to the actual revenue generated by the Aviator game. According to Flutter, the game only brought in $7.5 million in revenue in Georgia last year, significantly lower than the damages awarded.
The breakdown of the payment to be made by Flutter and Spribe has not been disclosed. Flutter has criticized the high amount of damages, claiming that it does not reflect the true value of the disputed property. Aviator LLC’s law firm, Mikadze Gegetchkori Taktakishvili LLC, expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling and vowed to vigorously defend their client’s intellectual property rights against unauthorized use on any international gaming platforms.
The legal battle between the parties underscores the importance of protecting intellectual property in the fast-growing online gambling industry. As more companies enter the market and develop new games and services, the risk of infringement and disputes over trademarks and copyrights increases. The outcome of this case will likely have implications for how companies in the gaming sector approach intellectual property rights and legal disputes in the future.
It is crucial for companies operating in the online gambling space to understand and respect intellectual property laws to avoid costly legal battles and damages claims. By securing proper licenses and permissions for the use of trademarks and copyrighted material, companies can protect themselves from potential litigation and uphold ethical business practices. Additionally, maintaining transparency and cooperation with former shareholders and partners can help prevent disputes over intellectual property rights and ensure a harmonious business environment.
In conclusion, Flutter Entertainment’s decision to appeal the $330 million damages claim imposed on Adjarabet highlights the challenges and risks associated with intellectual property rights in the online gambling industry. As the sector continues to grow and evolve, companies must prioritize legal compliance and ethical conduct to safeguard their assets and reputation. By adhering to best practices and seeking legal guidance when necessary, companies can navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property rights and mitigate the risk of costly legal disputes.