OnAir with Akin

"Texas Allows Elimination of Fiduciary Duties in LLCs"

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:13:58 +0000

In this episode, Akin litigation partners Scott Barnard and Stephanie Lindemuth unpack a major shift in Texas business law with real consequences for LLCs, private equity sponsors, and minority investors. They examine new statutory changes allowing fiduciary duties to be eliminated by contract, how Texas's approach diverges from Delaware's, and why choice of law and precise drafting have never mattered more.

"Inside Delaware's Legislative Response: Courts, SB 21 and the Future of Corporate Law" | Episode 6

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 18:00:04 +0000

In our latest episode, Delaware Senate Majority Leader Bryan Townsend sits down with Akin litigation partners Scott Barnard and Stephanie Lindemuth to offer an insider's view of the legislature's response as debate over Delaware's corporate law direction continues.

In this episode, Senator Townsend explains why the General Assembly advanced Senate Bill 21 as a measured legislative response to bring clarity and consistency to Delaware corporate law. He addresses market concerns, the legislature's role and the future of Delaware corporate law.

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"SEC Changes Course on Mandatory Arbitration" | Episode 5

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:01:57 +0000

In our latest podcast episode, Akin litigation partners Scott Barnard and Stephanie Lindemuth discuss the SEC's recent policy shift on mandatory arbitration provisions and what it means for public companies—particularly in light of differing state law approaches in Delaware, Texas and beyond.

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"Delaware's Counter Offensive: Moelis, Musk and the Amended Section 220" | Episode 4

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:46:58 +0000

In this episode, we examine recent decisions out of Delaware that are reshaping the conversation around corporate governance and the competitive landscape between Delaware and Texas.

Akin litigation partners Scott Barnard and Stephanie Lindemuth are back to discuss significant recent updates, including the Delaware Supreme Court's reversal in Moelis, its remedy-focused ruling in the Musk/Tesla matter and the first judicial interpretation of the amended Section 220. Together, these decisions signal Delaware's effort to reinforce predictability, realign with legislative changes and respond to the broader debate around corporate migration.

Listen now.

"Texas Glitters, But Is It Gold? Assessing Operational Challenges Texas Faces in Achieving Delaware's Gold Standard"

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 14:46:00 +0000

We present the third and final episode of our limited series podcast on how Texas and Delaware are positioning themselves as leading jurisdictions for corporate incorporation and litigation.

Join our co-hosts, Akin litigation partners Scott Barnard and Stephanie Lindemuth, as they dissect the operational realities of the new Texas Business Courts. They'll explore the courts' structure, inherent challenges and the long road ahead as Texas vies for prominence against Delaware's established dominance.

"Home Court Advantage? Key Differences Between Delaware and Texas Laws Relevant to the Corporate Home Debate" | Episode 2

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 19:27:00 +0000

We present the second episode of our limited series podcast on how Texas and Delaware are positioning themselves as leading jurisdictions for corporate incorporation and litigation. This week, we examine recent developments in corporate law and the efforts by both states to attract businesses.

Our co-hosts, Akin litigation partners Scott Barnard and Stephanie Lindemuth, explore the legislative changes and structural differences that are shaping the corporate law environment, with a specific focus on fiduciary duties, standards of review and shareholder rights.

Listen now.

"'DExit' or Just Drama? The Future of Delaware and 'Y'all Street'" | Episode 1

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:54:00 +0000

Akin is excited to announce the launch of our three-part, limited series podcast, The Business Court Benches: Delaware and Texas Compared. This topical series, co-hosted by Akin litigation partners Scott Barnard and Stephanie Lindemuth, will dive into the bold steps Texas has taken to rival Delaware as the go-to jurisdiction for corporate litigation.

Our first episode, "'DExit' or Just Drama? The Future of Delaware and 'Y'all Street," explores the historical significance of the Delaware Court of Chancery, recent shifts in corporate law jurisprudence and the emerging competition from Texas's new business courts.

Over the coming weeks, stay tuned as we provide in-depth analyses and insights that will help you navigate this evolving landscape.

Speaking Sustainability: A Cost-Based Approach to Managing ESG Issues and Greenwashing Risks

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:15:00 +0000

In the latest episode of our OnAir with Akin podcast, we continue our Speaking Sustainability series hosted by Chad Smith, a consultant in the New York office specializing in ESG. Chad is joined by guests Jim Deeken, an investment management partner in the Dallas office, and Kirk Anderson, an investment management counsel in the New York office. The trio explores the challenges of implementing ESG principles in the corporate world, highlights the importance of aligning ESG statements with actual practices to avoid legal issues and regulatory scrutiny and the risks involved with false sustainability claims.

To learn more, visit akingump.com.

Speaking Sustainability: Navigating Delaware Law and Directors' Duties

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 13:15:00 +0000

In the latest episode of our OnAir with Akin podcast, we share our Speaking Sustainability series with Chad Smith, a consultant in the New York office. Joined by guest Jim Deeken, an investment management partner in the Dallas office to discuss the intricacies of Delaware law concerning directors' duties, emphasizing the importance of understanding the duty of care and loyalty to avoid potential liabilities. They highlight the limitations of the business judgment rule and the necessity for directors to ensure proper risk management and oversight, particularly in relation to environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues.

To learn more, visit akingump.com.

Regulatory Minutes: Part 4

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:54:00 +0000

In the latest episode of our OnAir with Akin podcast, we continue our Regulatory Minutes series, hosted by investment management partners Barbara Niederkofler and Jason Daniel, with special guest William Wetmore, an investment management partner in Akin's San Francisco office.

In this episode, we discuss various regulatory developments and cover topics such as the Internet Advisors Rule, climate disclosure for reporting public companies, enforcement actions related to 13D versus 13G filings and AI Washing, legal cases involving settlement agreements in proxy contests, and the SEC's case against Coinbase. We also highlight upcoming compliance deadlines, including the shortening of the settlement cycle and the delivery of fund documents.

To learn more, visit akingump.com.

Regulatory Minutes: Part 3

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:12:00 +0000

In this special 3 part series of OnAir with Akin, Jason Daniel, an investment funds regulatory partner in the Dallas office and Barbara Niederkofler, an investment fund partner in the New York office, will discuss the recent regulatory changes, the proposals that are still out there, and how all this will impact your fund documents and your practices and procedures.

Part 3: This section focuses on Regulatory Updates that specifically impact Funds Documents. It provides information on any recent changes or updates to the regulations that govern funds and their associated documents. This section is particularly relevant for professionals in the funds industry who need to stay up-to-date with the latest regulatory requirements.

To learn more, visit akingump.com.

Regulatory Minutes: Part 2

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Part 2: In this section, we discuss Material Proposals that have not yet been adopted. These are regulatory changes that are still in the proposal stage and have not been finalized or implemented. Readers can gain insights into potential upcoming changes and their potential impact on the industry.

To learn more, visit akingump.com.

Regulatory Minutes: Part 1

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 17:15:00 +0000

Part 1: This section provides an overview of the Adopted Rules, Proposed Rules, Recent Enforcement Actions, and approaching or recent Compliance Dates for Adopted Rules. It covers the regulatory updates that have been implemented and enforced in the recent past, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of the current regulatory landscape.

Among the topics covered:

Adopted Rules
Proposed Rules
Recent Enforcement Actions from Jan
Approaching or Recent Compliance Dates for Adopted Rules
Staff Guidance

To learn more, visit akingump.com.

Unveiling the Highlights: A Recap of CES, the Global Technology Trade Show in Las Vegas | Akin Intelligence

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 19:13:00 +0000

In this episode of OnAir with Akin, lobbying & public policy partner Hans Rickhoff and senior counsel Reggie Babin lead a discussion with international trade partner Christian Davis, senior policy advisor Virgil Miller, and senior advisor Ryan Thompson to recap their experience at CES, an annual trade show organized by the Consumer Technology Association that occurred from January 9th to 12th in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year, AI was a major theme at the conference, and in this discussion our team delves into how some of the new AI-powered technologies showcased at CES and how they could be impacted by federal policy.

AI and Copyright: Navigating the Legal Landscape | Akin Intelligence

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 20:05:00 +0000

In this episode of OnAir with Akin, lobbying & public policy partner Hans Rickhoff, senior counsel Reggie Babin and intellectual property partner David Vondle discuss the current state of artificial intelligence (AI) and its intersection with intellectual property (IP) and copyright law. The speakers talk about the implications of AI-generated works in terms of copyright protection, the role of the courts in shaping copyright law in relation to AI, and the potential legislative responses to these issues.

Among the topics covered:

- The intersection of AI with IP and copyright law.

- The implications of AI-generated works on copyright protection.

- The role of the courts and Congress in shaping copyright law.

- The potential for legislative responses to these issues.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Executive Order | Akin Intelligence

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 19:42:00 +0000

In this episode of OnAir with Akin, lobbying and public policy partner Hans Rickhoff and lobbying and public policy partner senior counsel Reggie Babin lead a discussion with international trade counsel Alan Hayes on the current state of AI policy, with a specific focus on the recent Biden administration executive order (EO) on AI. They discuss the implications of the EO for clients, its potential impact on future legislation, and the broader themes coloring the AI conversation globally. They also discuss the role of various agencies in implementing the EO and the potential challenges they might face.

Topics include:

Overview of the AI EO
Congressional activity on AI
UK AI Summit
Substantive analysis of the EO

Reviewing the 2022 SCOTUS Term

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 14:30:00 +0000

In this special episode, Akin Supreme Court and appellate practice head Pratik Shah and partner Aileen McGrath look back at the tumultuous 2022 Supreme Court Term.

Among the topics covered:

· Culture-war topics and dissent battles.

· The arrival and impact of Justice Jackson.

· Pumping the brakes on the Court's rightward trend.

· Is the Court still friendly to business?

· Curtailing agencies' power in the 2023 Term?

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "Supreme Court."

2022 CCPA Litigation and Enforcement Report: Key Findings

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 15:15:00 +0000

In this episode of OnAir with Akin, cybersecurity, privacy & data protection practice co-head Michelle Reed and counsel Molly Whitman and Lauren York discuss the newly published third edition of the firm's annual CCPA Litigation and Enforcement Report, which, through analysis of hundreds of cases, provides readers with a clear view of the landscape in this fourth year of the California Consumer Privacy Act.

Among the topics covered:

· 2022 CCPA litigation overview.

· Key statistics and trends from the report.

· Industries hardest hit by CCPA lawsuits.

· Important takeaways for businesses in California.

Viking River Cruises: The Future of PAGA Arbitration

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 13:57:30 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump Supreme Court and appellate practice senior counsel Aileen McGrath and labor and employment counsel Jonathan Slowik discuss California's Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) and the significance of the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Viking River Cruises, Inc. v. Moriana.

Among the topics covered:

· PAGA's origins.

· An unusual decision in Viking River.

· The Court's approach to arbitration cases.

· Significance for business.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "PAGA."

2022 SCOTUS Wrapup and Preview

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 13:06:37 +0000

In this special episode, Akin Gump Supreme Court and appellate practice head Pratik Shah and senior counsel Aileen McGrath discuss the momentous 2021 Supreme Court Term and look at notable upcoming cases in the October 2022 Term.

Among the topics covered:

· Stare decisis and Dobbs.

· The impact of originalism.

· Shifting views of precedent.

· Kennedy, Carson and the Establishment and Free Exercise Clauses.

· The significance of the "major questions" doctrine.

· Chief Justice Roberts' role on the Court.

· Justice Breyer's legacy.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "Supreme Court."

2021 CCPA Litigation Report – Overview and Findings

Wed, 11 May 2022 18:50:56 +0000

In this episode, Natasha Kohne and Michelle Reed, who head Akin Gump's cybersecurity, privacy and data protection practice, and counsel Lauren York discuss the firm's new CCPA Litigation Annual Report – 2021 Trends and Developments, which reviews the findings from their analysis of the second year of litigation and class actions under the California Consumer Privacy Act.

Among the topics covered:

· 2021 CCPA litigation overview.

· Major increase in data breach cases.

· Surprising findings.

· Litigation deterrence strategies.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "CCPA."

ESG Litigation in the UK and EU: What You Need to Know

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 17:24:19 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump litigation partner Richard Hornshaw and counsel Aimee Smart look at the litigation aspects of environmental, social and governance, or ESG, issues in the U.K. and EU.

Among the topics covered:

· Bringing ESG-related claims in English courts.

· The trends in cases brought and the legal issues underpinning them.

· ESG-related cases in the EU and beyond.

· Shareholder activism and ESG litigation.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "ESG."

The 2021 SCOTUS Wrap-up and Preview Episode

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 15:32:33 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump Supreme Court and appellate practice head Pratik Shah and senior counsel Aileen McGrath review the 2020 Supreme Court Term and preview the big cases and topics in the October 2021 Term.

Among the topics covered:

· What we can learn from the 2020 Term.

· Justice Barrett's first Term.

· The rise of the shadow docket.

· Hot-button topics and the marquee cases of the 2021 Term.

· Justice Breyer and the Court.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "Supreme Court."

The SEC and FCA Annual Reports: Facts, Figures, Trends

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 20:27:30 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump financial regulatory partner Helen Marshall and white collar defense and government investigations practice co-head Michael Asaro look at SEC and FCA's annual reports to discuss similarities, differences and trends.

Among the topics covered:

Which is the more active regulator?
COVID's impact on investigations.
Financial penalties in the U.S. and U.K..
Areas of heightened regulatory concern.

To learn more, search for "financial regulatory" and "white collar" at akingump.com.

Redistricting and the Census—What You Need to Know

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:59:32 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump litigation partner Hyongsoon Kim and Supreme Court and appellate senior counsel Aileen McGrath and Crimcard founder and managing partner Dr. Kareem Crayton discuss redistricting and the impact of the 2020 Census.

Among the topics covered:

The Voting Rights Act Secs. 2 and 5 and redistricting.
The role of legal counsel in redistricting.
What the 2020 Census revealed.
Redistricting and the Census: litigation.

To learn more, search for "litigation" at akingump.com.

COVID, Vaccine Mandates, and Boosters: A Workplace Update

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 14:22:01 +0000

In this special episode, Akin Gump labor and employment partners Bob Lian and Lauren Leyden welcome noted epidemiologist Dr. Stephen Ostroff to update listeners on workplace issues related to COVID-19.

Among the topics covered:

The nature and impact of the Delta variant.
Employer vaccine mandates following the FDA's vaccine approval.
Employer obligations regarding vaccinations.
Workplace considerations regarding vaccine boosters.

To learn more, search for "labor and employment" at akingump.com.

Onshoring Drug Manufacturing and TRIPS Waiver Part II

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 16:09:58 +0000

In this new episode of OnAir: Health Care, Akin Gump health care senior policy advisor Matthew Hittle and consultant Dr. Mario Ramirez welcome Akin Gump public law and policy partner Clete Willems and Centrient Pharmaceuticals chief legal and compliance officer Jim DeYonker.

Among the topics covered:

· The TRIPS waiver and vaccines.

· Global supply chains.

· Onshoring drug manufacturing.

· Enforcing IP outside the U.S..

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "health care."

Employer Vaccine Mandates—What You Need to Know.

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 17:22:45 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump labor and employment practice head Bob Lian and partner Lauren Leyden discuss employer vaccine mandates related to coronavirus.

Among the topics covered:

· Challenges and complications in managing the pandemic in the workplace.

· What employers can require of employees.

· Should employers be mandating the vaccine?

· Who is exempt from vaccine mandates?

· What employers should be thinking about as offices reopen.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "labor and employment."

EU ESG Developments and Risks for Beginners

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 20:57:00 +0000

In this episode, which concludes our three-part EU ESG Considerations for Beginners miniseries, Akin Gump financial regulatory partner Ezra Zahabi looks at EU ESG developments and risks and what business should know about them.

Among the topics covered:

· How the SFDR and the Taxonomy Regulation interact.

· EU legislative developments on the ESG front.

· Emergent risks and liabilities from the new regulatory framework.

· Key takeaways for business.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "ESG."

Taxonomy Regulation for Beginners

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 20:41:31 +0000

In this episode, the second in our three-part EU ESG Considerations for Beginners miniseries, Akin Gump financial regulatory partner Ezra Zahabi looks at the EU's Taxonomy Regulation and what it means for business.

Among the topics covered:

· What is the Taxonomy Regulation's purpose?

· To whom does it apply?

· How does environmental sustainability inform the Regulation?

· What is the Taxonomy Regulation's impact on the extant regulatory framework?

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "ESG."

Health Equity – Two Perspectives

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 20:28:09 +0000

In this new episode of OnAir: Health Care, Akin Gump health care senior policy advisor Matthew Hittle and consultant Dr. Mario Ramirez welcome House Ways and Means Committee health counsel Orriel Richardson and National Minority Quality Forum CEO Dr. Gary Puckrein.

Among the topics covered:

· Health equity – the view from Capitol Hill and beyond.

· CMS update.

· Race and health disparities.

· Health care costs.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "health care."

SFDR for Beginners

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 16:27:26 +0000

In this episode, the first in our three-part EU ESG Considerations for Beginners miniseries, Akin Gump financial regulatory partner Ezra Zahabi looks at the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and what it means for business.

Among the topics covered:

· Where did SFDR start?

· To whom does it apply?

· Which funds are covered?

· What are the disclosure requirements for funds?

· What should investors know about SFDR?

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "ESG."

Energy M&A—Today and Tomorrow

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 14:55:32 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump corporate partners Wesley Williams and Jessica Hammons take a wide-ranging look at the oil and gas industry in the U.S. and discuss the investment and transaction present and future in that industry.

Among the topics covered:

· Trends in energy transactions.

· Oil and gas industry consolidation.

· Private equity funds, SPACs and capital deployment.

· ESG's impact on energy transactions.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "oil and gas."

What You Need to Know About ESG Transparency

Wed, 12 May 2021 15:58:00 +0000

This special episode features "Emergence of ESG Transparency," a webinar featuring two heads of Akin Gump's ESG group—partners Stacey Mitchell in D.C. and Amy Kennedy in London—along with London partner Ezra Zahabi.

Among the topics covered:

· EU plans on ESG and sustainable finance.

· An overview of U.S. climate and ESG developments.

· EU sustainable finance transparency requirements.

· The U.K. sustainable finance initiative.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "ESG."

Vaccine IP Fight; Delicate Dem Dynamics; Deciphering CDC

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 22:58:17 +0000

In this new episode of OnAir: Health Care, Akin Gump health care senior policy advisor Matthew Hittle and consultant Dr. Mario Ramirez welcome public law and policy partners Ed Pagano and Clete Willems to talk federal health care policy and legislation.

Among the topics covered:

· What is infrastructure, and how are votes lining up in Congress?

· COVID variants, new CDC guidelines on travel, and more.

· IP protections for vaccines.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "COVID" and "health care.

2020 CCPA Litigation Report – Analyzing the First Year of Litigation

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 13:45:04 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump cybersecurity, privacy, and data protection practice co-heads Natasha Kohne and Michelle Reed, and counsel Molly Whitman discuss the firm's new 2020 CCPA Litigation Annual Report and its sometimes-surprising findings.

Among the topics covered:

· Class actions under the California Consumer Privacy Act in 2020.

· CCPA statutory overview.

· The private right of action.

· Defending against CCPA claims.

To learn more, visit www.akingump.com and search for "CCPA."

CDC Guidance, HHS Appointments, ACA Prospects

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 15:26:03 +0000

In this debut episode of OnAir: Health Care, Akin Gump health care senior policy advisor Matthew Hittle and consultant Dr. Mario Ramirez welcome partner Kelly Cleary to discuss health policy, medical science, and Washington politics.

Among the topics covered:

· The science behind CDC guidance.

· HHS appointments: the state of play.

· The Biden-Harris administration and the Affordable Care Act.

· Medicaid and drug pricing policies.

To learn more, visit www.akingump.com and search for "COVID" and "health care."

The Biden-Harris Administration's Agenda for Women

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 16:18:44 +0000

In this special episode, Akin Gump investment management partner and Women Firmwide Resource Group co-head Barbara Niederkofler moderates a panel featuring labor and employment partner Esther Lander, public law and policy partner Arshi Siddiqui and senior advisor and former Congresswowan Ileana Ros-Lehtinen as they discuss the Biden-Harris administration's agenda and how issues impacting women may be addressed by the new administration.

Creditors' Fees and English Law Schemes of Arrangement

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 20:12:41 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump financial restructuring partner Lois Deasey and practice co-head Liz Osborne offer an overview of creditors' fees related to English law schemes of arrangement.

Among the topics covered:

· Determining creditor classes under English law.

· Lockup fees and what to look for.

· How courts analyze work fees.

· Backstop fees in restructurings.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "financial restructuring.

An ESG Roadmap for Business

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 15:23:21 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump's Amy Kennedy and Stacey Mitchell, two of the firm's ESG group co-heads, walk listeners through environmental, social and governance considerations for business.

Among the topics covered:

· U.S. and international perspectives on ESG.

· Why ESG is a hot topic in 2021.

· The disclosure alphabet soup, from GRI to UNPRI.

· Corporate ESG risks.

· Green loans/bonds and sustainability-linked loans/bonds.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "ESG."

The Biden Immigration Bill: What It Means for Business

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 18:08:06 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump public law and policy partner Ed Pagano, senior policy advisor Casey Higgins and international trade counsel Maka Hutson discuss the Biden comprehensive immigration bill currently on Capitol Hill.

Among the topics covered:

· Can a comprehensive bill make it through Congress?

· What business listeners should know about the bill's provisions.

· H-1B visas and green cards.

· Guest workers and Dreamers.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "immigration."

What You Need to Know About the Paycheck Protection Program

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 15:51:10 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump government contracts partner Angela Styles discusses the origins, workings, track record and future of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

Among the topics covered:

· Self-certification, eligibility and fraud.

· Acquiring companies with PPP loans.

· The Treasury Department and PPP.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "Paycheck Protection Program."

Corporate-Law Firm Pro Bono Partnerships

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 18:13:37 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump pro bono partner Steven Schulman; Rick McMurtry, senior VP and associate GC at WarnerMedia; and Jay Reidy, assistant VP and senior legal counsel at AT&T discuss pro bono partnerships between law firms and in-house legal departments.

Among the topics covered:

· AT&T's and WarnerMedia's pro bono programs.

· The history and development of corporate pro bono.

· The benefits to companies of pro bono partnerships.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "pro bono."

U.S. Elections 2020 Preview

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 19:42:59 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump public law and policy partner and former U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly and senior advisor and former U.S. Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen discuss the 2020 U.S. elections and their significance for business.

Among the topics covered:

Issues firing up each candidate's base.
The candidates on trade, immigration, taxation.
The significance of the "Biden Republican."
Flipping the Senate, or status quo?

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "public law and policy."

SCOTUS Wrapup and Preview 2020

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 15:51:15 +0000

In this episode, recorded on Sept. 14, Akin Gump Supreme Court and appellate practice co-head Pratik Shah returns to review the 2019 Supreme Court Term and preview the big cases and topics in the October 2020 Term.

Among the topics covered:

Chief Justice Roberts' influence.
Justice Gorsuch as maverick and textualist.
COVID-19 and telephonic arguments.
What to look for in the October 2020 Term.
The 2020 elections and the Court.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "Supreme Court."

Health Care and COVID – Regulation, Fraud and Enforcement

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 20:55:28 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump health care partners Kelly Cleary and Robert Salcido discuss the health care industry and how COVID-19 has impacted the industry and affected or driven legislative and regulatory activity.

Among the topics covered:

The Stark Law and conflicts of interest.
Oversight of the CARES Act.
The False Claims Act and its current and future enforcement.
Drug pricing models.
Takeaways for business.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "health care."

The Entertainment Industry During COVID-19

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 20:22:54 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump entertainment practice head Chris Spicer and partner Alissa Miller talk about the entertainment industry in the U.S. and overseas and the impact that COVID-19 has had on production and financing.

Among the topics covered:

· U.S. vs. international productions.

· The rise of the streaming services.

· Insurance and COVID.

· Representing independent content producers on Capitol Hill.

· Investment opportunities.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "entertainment."

Litigating During COVID: What You Need to Know

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 19:18:40 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump antitrust partners Gorav Jindal and Corey Roush, fresh off a two-week trial, discuss the nuts and bolts of litigating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Among the topics covered:

· Antitrust litigation in the COVID context.

· The challenges of remote trial preparation.

· Technology: its advantages and disadvantages in the new normal.

· Trial behind plexiglass and masks.

· The post-COVID courtroom.

To learn more, visit akingump.com and search for "antitrust."

IP Disputes at the ITC: What You Need to Know.

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 14:31:37 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump intellectual property partners Cono Carrano and David Vondle discuss IP disputes at the U.S. International Trade Commission.

Among the topics covered:

· What is Section 337 and what does it mean for business?

· ITC or district court: Which gets the job done?

· The ITC and standard essential patents.

· Filing complaints at the ITC against Chinese entities.

· COVID-19's impact on ITC proceedings.

To learn more about the firm's Section 337 investigations practice, visit akingump.com.

Colleges and Universities, Class Actions, and COVID-19

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 16:02:28 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump litigation partner Hyongsoon Kim and counsel Molly Whitman discuss class actions against colleges and universities that have moved to remote teaching due to the pandemic.

Among the topics covered:

· Who comprises these plaintiff classes?

· What is the nature of these suits?

· The role of the plaintiff's bar.

· Early warnings that litigation is coming.

· Approaches in defending against litigation.

To learn more about the firm's universities and colleges work, visit akingump.com.

Exploring European Bonds, Loans and Covenants

Fri, 29 May 2020 15:01:01 +0000

Akin Gump London-based financial restructuring partner Liz Osborne and finance partners Amy Kennedy and Stephen Peppiatt discuss European bonds, loans and the various flavors of covenants in the current liquidity constrained environment.

Among the topics covered:

The development of the high-yield bond/leveraged loan market.
Investment opportunities within existing covenant structures.
EBITDA and financial ratio flexibility.

UK Financial Restructuring During COVID-19

Thu, 07 May 2020 13:37:02 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump London-based financial restructuring partners Liz Osborne and Emma Simmonds discuss insolvency and restructuring in the U.K. in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

Among the topics covered:

· Recent trends.

· Liquidity issues and requests for release and payment holidays.

· U.K. insolvency and restructuring mechanisms.

· Proposed reform of U.K. insolvency laws.

CCPA: Impacts and Significance for Business

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 17:17:20 +0000

Akin Gump cybersecurity, privacy and data protection co-heads Natasha Kohne and Michelle Reid discuss the California Consumer Privacy Act and its implications for business in this episode recorded in mid-March.

Among the topics covered:

· California's influence on states' legislation.

· Private right of action: What does it mean for business?

· Attorney-client privilege.

· California plaintiffs' bar and statutory damages.

· CCPA compliance.

Opportunities & Landmines for Energy Companies Right Now

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 21:29:18 +0000

This episode presents the briefing "Managing the New Reality: Opportunities & Landmines for Energy Companies Right Now," with Akin Gump corporate partner John Goodgame and financial restructuring partners Sarah Schultz, Ira Dizengoff and Michael Stamer.

Among the topics covered:

· D&O duties.

· Disclosure for energy companies.

· Liability management.

· Transactional alternatives.

· Counterparty risk

What UK Authorized Firms Need to Know

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 15:14:07 +0000

In this episode recorded in late February, Akin Gump financial regulatory partners Helen Marshall and Ezra Zahabi, using Akin Gump's recently published In Principle annual report as a springboard, discuss what U.K. authorized firms should be thinking about.

Among the topics covered:

· Brexit and contractual implications.

· ESG considerations.

· U.K. enforcement trends.

· Cybersecurity and GDPR.

· New AIFMD rules.

To read the full In Principle report, please visit akingump.com.

Coronavirus and the Workplace

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 16:09:06 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump labor and employment partner Richard Rabin and associate Grace O'Donnell discuss what you need to know about coronavirus' impact on the workplace and employees.

Among the topics covered:

· Business/personal travel and quarantine.

· Sick leave obligations and state/federal laws.

· COVID-19 testing and the workplace.

· Remote work considerations.

For Akin Gump's insights and analysis of the latest COVID-19 legal, regulatory and technical developments, please visit agcovid19.com.

UK Dispute Resolution Post-Brexit

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 14:56:57 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump litigation partner Mark Dawkins and senior counsel Sheena Buddhdev return to the studio to discuss U.K. dispute resolution in the wake of that country's departure from the EU.

Among the topics covered:

· What has changed post-Brexit?

· What is expected for the transition period before January 1, 2021?

· Practical steps and contracts in 2020.

· U.K. brinkmanship and the EU.

To learn more about Akin Gump's dispute resolution practice, please visit akingump.com.

The State of M&A in the UK, Europe and Beyond

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 16:01:41 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump international competition and trade partner Davina Garrod and corporate partner Gavin Weir discuss M&A in the U.K., EU, U.S., China and more, its state of health and where it might go in 2020.

Among the topics covered:

· The impact of Brexit.

· Geopolitical hurdles.

· The Trump admin, U.S. elections and M&A.

· China: Hong Kong, coronavirus and deal flow.

· Hot sectors for M&A.

For more information on Akin Gump's international trade, antitrust and corporate work, please visit akingump.com.

Africa Business and Investment Panorama

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 21:59:17 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump international trade partner Nnedi Ifudu and corporate partner Weyinmi Popo give listeners a panoramic view of Africa's business and investment landscapes.

Among the topics covered:

· A region-by-region review

· Risks attached to investment.

· The "three Ds" of business opportunity in Africa

· The impact of U.S. government policies.

· Intercontinental trade.

· Takeaways for business.

For more information on Akin Gump's Africa practice, please visit akingump.com.

AG Funds Minutes: SEC Proposes to Modernize Advertising and Cash Solicitation Rules

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 18:26:31 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump investment management partners Barbara Niederkofler and Jason Daniel discuss the Securities and Exchange Commission's proposed modernization of the advertising and cash solicitation rules under the Advisers Act.

Among the topics covered:

· Redefinition of "advertisement."

· Case studies guidance.

· Testimonials and fraudulent statements.

· Net and hypothetical performance.

· New compliance policies.

For more information on Akin Gump's investment management work, please visit akingump.com.

What's New in Washington: Spotlight on Privacy Legislation

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 19:50:45 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump public law and policy partner Ed Pagano and senior policy advisor Galen Roehl discuss privacy legislation being considered in the U.S. Congress.

Among the topics covered:

· Drivers for new legislation.

· The leading privacy bills.

· The impact of state privacy laws.

· The Trump administration's view.

· Takeaways for business.

For more information on Akin Gump's public law and policy work, please visit akingump.com.

US-China Trade War – What Business Needs to Know

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 21:09:32 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump international trade partner Steve Kho and public law and policy partner Clete Willems discuss the U.S.-China trade war, where it stands and where it may be going.

Among the topics covered:

The likelihood of a deal by year's end.
What signs to look for regarding progress.
China and the WTO.
The 2020 elections and the trade war.
The trade war's impact on the business community.

For more information on Akin Gump's trade and policy work, please visit akingump.com.

What Congress Is Doing About Drug Pricing and Surprise Medical Billing

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 15:44:48 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump health care and life sciences senior counsel Taylor Jones and public law and policy senior policy adviser Julie Nolan discuss draft legislation currently on Capitol Hill focusing on drug pricing and surprise medical billing.

Among the topics covered:

What's driving legislation?
Which draft bills have the most support?
What role does the international pharmaceutical market play?
What impact will impeachment proceedings have?

Learn more about these practice areas on akingump.com.

SCOTUS Wrapup and Preview 2019

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 16:42:16 +0000

In our second annual SCOTUS review, Akin Gump Supreme Court and appellate practice co-head Pratik Shah analyzes the Court's previous Term and previews the new Term.

Among the topics covered:

• SCOTUS decisions on census citizenship and gerrymandering.
• How Justices Kavanaugh and Gorsuch voted.
• New hot-button cases: gun rights, DACA, transgender discrimination.
• What business should know about the new Term.

To learn more about Akin Gump's Supreme Court and appellate work, please visit akingump.com.

DOJ's New Guidance on Evaluating Compliance Programs: What You Need to Know

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 13:59:24 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump health care and life sciences counsel Taylor Jones and Matt Wetzel discuss the Justice Department's recent guidance on evaluation of corporate compliance programs.

Among the topics covered:

· Incorporating the guidance into risk assessment.

· Its impact on the health care sector.

· What it may reveal about DOJ compliance strategy.

· Top takeaways.

For more information on Akin Gump's health care and life sciences work, please visit the health care and life sciences page on akingump.com.

Brexit and Dispute Resolution in the UK

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 15:39:17 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump litigation partner Mark Dawkins and senior counsel Sheena Buddhdev discuss Brexit and its possible impact on international dispute resolution in the U.K.

Among the topics covered:

· Brexit state of play

· international business and the English judicial system

· governing law of contracts post-Brexit

· court judgements post-Brexit.

For more information on Akin Gump's dispute resolution work, please visit the international arbitration and dispute resolution page on akingump.com.

Fund Negotiations—Bridging the GP/LP Gap

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 13:53:21 +0000

In this episode, demonstrating solutions in fund formation and negotiation, Akin Gump investment management lawyers Jim Deeken and Gechi Tesic perform a mock negotiation between a private equity firm and a pension fund considering an investment in a successor fund.

Among the topics covered:

management fees and zombie funds
side letters
distribution waterfalls and clawbacks
in-kind distributions.

For more information on Akin Gump's funds work, please visit the investment management page on akingump.com.

CBD, THC, FDA – What You Need to Know About Cannabis and Its Regulation

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 15:08:39 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump health care and life sciences partner Howard Sklamberg discusses the history and status of cannabis regulation and enforcement

in the U.S., particularly of cannabidiol, or CBD.

Among the topics covered:

THC vs. CBD, hemp vs. marijuana
CBD and the Controlled Substances Act
CBD: supplement, food additive or drug?
FDA regulation of CBD.

For more information on Akin Gump's food and drug law work, please visit the food and drug law page on akingump.com.

Mental Health & Well-Being in the Legal Industry with Kim Koopersmith, Patrick Krill

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 16:48:52 +0000

This episode debuts a series of conversations between Akin Gump chairperson Kim Koopersmith and thought leaders in and around the legal industry. In this episode, she speaks with Patrick Krill, an authority on addiction and mental health in law firms.

Among the topics covered:

what a 15,000-lawyer survey revealed about mental health distress
well-being in the workplace
the importance of early intervention.

For more information on Akin Gump, please visit the Our Firm page on akingump.com.

Venezuela – The Roots and Future of U.S. Sanctions

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 20:31:37 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump public law and policy senior advisor and former U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and international trade partner Nnedi Ifudu discuss U.S. sanctions on Venezuela.

Among the topics covered:

the history of U.S. sanctions on Venezuela
the impact of sanctions on business
risks in the Venezuela market
challenges to the U.S. at the WTO
forecast for future sanctions.

For more information on Akin Gump's sanctions work, please visit the economic sanctions page on akingump.com.

Retail Industry Outlook: Risks and Rewards

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 14:18:39 +0000

In this episode, partners and Akin Gump retail initiative co-leaders Gregory Knopp and Meredith Slawe discuss the retail sector, its promises and its pitfalls.

Among the topics covered:

technological innovation in retail
challenges retailers face in California
consumer privacy and the plaintiff's bar
Akin Gump's multidisciplinary retail initiative
the importance of compliance in risk management.

For more information on Akin Gump's retail industry work, please visit the retail page on akingump.com.

Cybersecurity and the Boardroom

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 22:24:45 +0000

In this episode, the third of three building on Akin Gump's annual Top 10 Topics for Directors report, partner Michelle Reed discusses the critical question of cybersecurity and the corporate world.

Among the topics covered:

the big players and decisions for cyber in 2018
how boards can improve their cyber posture
2019 federal cyber initiatives.

For more information on Akin Gump's cybersecurity work, please visit the cybersecurity, privacy and data protection page on akingump.com.

The #MeToo Movement in the Corporate World

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 20:05:19 +0000

In this episode, the second of three building on Akin Gump's annual Top 10 Topics for Directors report, partner Lauren Leyden discusses the #MeToo movement and its impact on the corporate world.

Among the topics covered:

corporate culture and #MeToo
the paramount importance of preparedness
the changing environment for allegations.

For more information on Akin Gump's labor and employment work, please visit the labor and employment page on akingump.com

Corporate Culture and Board Diversity

Tue, 22 Jan 2019 21:20:48 +0000

In this episode, the first of three building on Akin Gump's annual Top 10 Topics for Directors report, partners Christine LaFollette and Daniel Walsh discuss corporate culture and board diversity, and what boards need to be thinking about them.

Among the topics covered:

corporate culture and crisis management
proxy voting and board diversity
a return to a multiconstituency focus for boards.

For more information on Akin Gump's governance work, please visit the corporate governance page on akingump.com.

Antitrust: Looking Back and Looking Forward

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 21:59:37 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump antitrust partners Gorav Jindal and Corey Roush discuss antitrust developments in 2018 and look at what 2019 may bring.

Among the topics covered:

antitrust under the Trump administration
major antitrust legislation on Capitol Hill
the FTC and big data
best practices for engaging with antitrust regulators.

For more information on Akin Gump's antitrust practice, please visit the antitrust page on akingump.com.

CFIUS and FIRRMA: What You Need to Know

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 15:51:11 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump international trade partners Tatman Savio and Christian Davis discuss the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. (CFIUS) and how the new Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act (FIRRMA) reforms and expands CFIUS's reach and authority.

Among the topics covered:

the why and how of CFIUS's reform
phased implementation of FIRRMA
FIRRMA's impact on Chinese investors.

For more information on Akin Gump's CFIUS practice, please visit the CFIUS page on akingump.com.

SCOTUS: Looking Back and Looking Forward

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 16:01:56 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump Supreme Court and appellate practice co-head Pratik Shah discusses the big cases from the preceding U.S. Supreme Court Term and looks ahead at interesting cases in the new Term.

Among the topics covered:

Justice Kavanaugh's impact
the rise of Justice Kagan
Chief Justice Roberts' new role
LGBT/reproductive rights cases.

For more information on Akin Gump's Supreme Court and appellate practice, please visit the Supreme Court and appellate page on akingump.com.

Akin Gump Post-Funds Conference Report

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 17:22:54 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump investment management partners Kelli Moll and Stephen Vine report on the firm's recent New York Private Investment Funds Conference, the topics covered from the dais and the hot topics going into 2019.

Among the topics covered:

· the state of the hedge fund industry

· financing of fund investments

· #MeToo and the funds industry

· interest rates and PE returns.

For more information on Akin Gump's investment management work, please visit the investment management page on akingump.com.

Congressional Investigations and the Midterm Elections

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 17:42:02 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump congressional investigations practice co-heads Rafi Prober and Steve Ross look at the history of Hill investigations and how the midterm elections may change their emphasis and targets.

Among the topics covered:

investigations in the 115th Congress
what if the Dems retake the House?
what to do if you receive a letter from Congress.

For more information on Akin Gump's congressional investigations work, please visit the congressional investigations page on akingump.com.

U.S. Midterm Elections Preview

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 20:46:42 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump public law and policy partner Arshi Siddiqui and senior advisor Geoff Verhoff discuss the upcoming U.S. midterm elections and the various potential consequences should the GOP hold the House or the Democrats flip it.

Among the topics covered:

U.S. business' view of the elections
investigations in a Dem-controlled House
prospects for the lame-duck session.

For more information on Akin Gump's policy work, please visit the public law and policy page on akingump.com.

Sanctions and Transactions

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 14:42:09 +0000

In this episode, Akin Gump cross-border transactions partner Melissa Schwartz discusses economic sanctions and transactions, specifically, how businesses minimize the risk they face of sanctions violations.

Among the topics covered:

secondary sanctions risk
evaluating your risk profile
the importance of a strong diligence program.

For more information on Akin Gump's work on economic sanctions and cross-border transactions, please visit the sanctions and cross-border transactions pages on akingump.com.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 18:37:02 +0000

In this episode, Dreamscape Immersive chief legal officer Tammy Brandt and Akin Gump corporate partner Courtney York, whose practice includes guiding clients through complex tech transactions, discuss the business and law of the dynamic virtual reality and augmented reality market. From IP and liability considerations to the monetization of these groundbreaking technologies, the conversation thoughtfully takes in many areas of interest to those in or about to enter the VR/AR space.

Among the topics covered:

the state of the VR/AR market
legal and business challenges faced by VR/AR companies
VR/AR in the context of recent tech innovations.

For more information on Akin Gump's work in the high-tech space, please visit the telecommunications, media and technology page on akingump.com.

False Advertising Claims and Consumer Class Actions

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:06:23 +0000

In this episode, Neal Marder, who heads Akin Gump's consumer class action litigation practice from the firm's Los Angeles office, discusses how false advertising claims are driving consumer class actions.

Among the topics covered:

California as a haven for the plaintiffs' bar
industries most at risk for false advertising litigation
precautionary steps for companies looking to forestall litigation
defenses being used in class action litigation.

For more information on Akin Gump's consumer class action defense work, please visit the consumer class actions page on our site.

U.S. Sanctions and Their Impact on Non-U.S. Businesses

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 14:01:39 +0000

In this podcast, Akin Gump's international trade partners Mahmoud Baki "Mac" Fadlallah (Dubai), Jasper Helder (London) and Wynn Segall (Washington, D.C.) discuss three pivotal regions related to U.S. sanctions under the Trump administration.

Among the topics covered in this timely podcast:

the Trump administration's use of sanctions as a policy tool and European reactions
the view from the Middle East
Russia and Iran sanctions – U.S. and European approaches
the potential impact of extraterritoriality and secondary sanctions on non-U.S. businesses.

For more information on Akin Gump's sanctions work, please visit the international trade practice page on our site.