Arent Fox Legal Podcasts

Life Sciences Partner Stephanie Trunk and Life Sciences Regulatory and Compliance Attorney Darshan Kulkarni delve into the nuances of direct-to-patient (DTP) and direct-to-consumer (DTC) models in the pharmaceutical industry. This encompasses advertising on drug prices, the intricacies of cash pay programs, and the evolving role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). They also discuss the Trump Administration's most favored nation status, as well as regulatory challenges and the need for a unified strategy to tackle rising health care costs. Highlights of the conversation include: - The prevalence of DTC advertising in the United States and its impact on drug sales. - How the Trump Administration's stance on DTC advertising raises First Amendment concerns. - How the most favored nation status could reshape drug pricing strategies. - PBMs playing a critical role in managing drug costs but face scrutiny for their practices. - Why regulatory compliance is essential for companies engaging in DTP sales.

They say, “timing is everything.” This podcast comes to our listeners as Washington, DC, contemplates next moves on the US tariff front, including new tariffs on products key to the e-mobility sector. Birgit Matthiesen speaks with Antonio J. Rivera, who was live from The Battery Show South in Atlanta, Georgia, where he presented on uncertainty and tariffs, what they affect, at what rates, and their origins. Takeaways - Electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries are here to stay despite challenges and industry uncertainty. - Investment in EVs and battery manufacturing is ongoing despite policy uncertainties from Washington. - The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) provides an opportunity for tariff cost relief. Understanding the USMCA product origin rules can make all the difference to a company's bottom line, including their suppliers and customers.

Welcome to “Beyond the Lot,” a podcast series hosted by Kevin Timson that invites industry experts to weigh in on trends and auto retail business topics. In the first episode, Kevin speaks about the state of the 2025 buy-sell market with JT Taylor, managing director of Automotive Retail at Truist Securities. They examine JT's experiences working on both the retail and original equipment manufacturer sides of the business and the sustainability of auto retail even in today's economic environment. In addition, they also dive into: • How demographic changes in dealer ownership are still dictating buy-sell demand. • Why private capital and regional dealers are poised to drive most of the consolidation in the dealership market. • How economies of scale in dealership operations are finally starting to drive acquisition strategies. • What role state and federal regulators are playing in auto retailing.

The fashion and textile industries have seen a marked uptick in customs enforcement, riding a “roller coaster of trade policy” that is likely to get more chaotic under the Trump Administration.  At the AFS Fashion Insiders Executives Forum, Chairman Anthony V. Lupo moderated an insightful panel featuring Angela M. Santos, leader of the firm's Customs Practice Group and Forced Labor Task Force, and Lucas A. Rock discussing what fashion, retail, and textile companies need to consider in an ever-changing trade and tariff landscape.

Join AFS Life Sciences Partner Stephanie Trunk and Darshan Kulkarni, Life Sciences regulatory and compliance attorney, as they explore the major shifts occurring in the pharmaceutical industry under the Trump Administration. Highlights of the conversation include: Evolving regulations for off-label pharmaceutical promotion. Enhancing a firm's global footprint by building trust with sovereign governments. Examining new compliance challenges stemming from AI technology. Navigating US Food and Drug Administration guidance as an unreliable indicator of enforcement priorities. Increasing scrutiny of the role of medical affairs. Finding balance between patient access and regulatory compliance.

In this episode of Five Questions, Five Answers, Birgit Matthiesen and Ryan Greer of the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) discuss the current challenges facing Canadian manufacturers due to impending US tariffs and the broader implications for the bilateral trade relationship. Ryan emphasizes the interconnectedness of Canadian and US manufacturing sectors and the potential negative impacts of tariffs on both sides of the border. He also provides insight into a possible retaliation strategy by Ottawa and shares his views on the future of North American manufacturing. Takeaways US tariffs pose significant challenges for Canadian manufacturers and their US customers. Retaliation strategies are being considered by the Canadian government. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement remains vital for trade relations between Canada and the United States. Past the imposition of tariffs, reducing regulatory burdens is essential for competitiveness. The future of manufacturing is uncertain but requires deeper integration. Lesson to emerge is that crisis can lead to opportunities for the NA manufacturing sector.

The fashion and textile industries have seen a marked uptick in customs enforcement, riding a "roller coaster of trade policy" that is likely to get more chaotic under the Trump Administration.  At the AFS Fashion Insiders Executives Forum, Chairman Anthony V. Lupo moderated an insightful panel featuring Angela Santos, leader of the firm's Customs Practice Group and Forced Labor Task Force, and Lucas Rock discussing what fashion, retail, and textile companies need to consider to navigate the import/export landscape. 

In the second installment of the Private Company Strategies podcast series, From Start-Up to Stand-Out, hosts Adam Diederich, Berin S. Romagnolo, and Sara Rosenberg are joined by AFS Partner Alexandra M. Romero to discuss essential employment law considerations for startups. They cover federal, state, and local laws and regulations, with an emphasis on the importance of compliance, especially in a remote work environment. Our hosts also discuss the benefits of developing employment policies and practices early on. Highlights of the conversation include: - Understanding employment laws is crucial for startups. - Consistently updating policies is necessary as the company grows. - Federal laws set a baseline, but state and local laws may impose additional requirements. - Remote work may complicate compliance with employment laws across jurisdictions. - Training employees on policies is vital for compliance.

In this episode, Aaron H. Jacoby, who leads AFS Automotive, and Franjo M. Dolenac explore challenges dealerships face with the onslaught of DMV investigations into late title and registration transfers and resulting administrative, civil, and criminal actions. They discuss litigation strategies, best practices for dealerships during investigations and litigation, and the potential repercussions of settlement agreements. Highlights of the conversation include: •DMV responsibility for backlogs during pandemic shutdowns. •Post-pandemic review of DMV backlogs leading to investigations of dealers for late title and registration transfers. •Administrative, civil, and criminal claims asserted. •The importance of cooperation within limits to protect dealers' rights. •Subpoena or search warrant requirements for dealer business records. •Avoiding admissions of liability and probation in any resolution.

This podcast comes on the heels of a whirlwind weekend of tariff headlines from Washington, DC, and reactions around the globe. It begins with news of the tariff “reprieve” for imports from Canada and Mexico and quickly turns to the impact of such tariffs on the North American vehicle and vehicle parts industries. President and CEO of Global Automakers Canada David Adams joins Birgit to take stock of what has been (officially) announced and what lies ahead from Ottawa, Washington, and Mexico City. Listeners are encouraged to check out ArentFox Schiff's Trump Tariffs 2.0: The Tariff Tracker and our latest alert, Trump Tariff Headlines – From Talk to Action.   Takeaways The recent tariff announcements have created significant uncertainty in the vehicle and parts sector and industry leaders should be in full contingency planning mode. The automotive industry in North America is highly integrated, complicating the impact of tariffs and tariff retaliation. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement has historically benefited all three countries involved and its scheduled six-year “review” in 2026 looms over these tariff announcements. What do these tariffs portend? Bottom line — executives are looking for options and they need to understand their tariff exposure. The month ahead gives executives and industry leaders time to self-assess and seek expert insight, well before the “11th hour.”

Welcome back to the AFS Fashion Insiders Executive Forum. Consumer Products Industry Group Co-Leaders Katia Asche and Matthew R. Mills discuss the ballooning legislation across states and in the federal government regulating “greenwashing” and the use of PFAS or “forever chemicals” in products ranging from food to apparel to kitchenware.  Katia and Matthew explain how mitigating exposure can help manufacturers get ahead of future claims and class actions.  Partner Michelle Mancino Marsh moderates.

A quick glance on the Zero Emission Transportation Association (ZETA) homepage reveals an impressive list of well-known corporate icons of the electric vehicle (EV) world. This special end-of-year installment of Five Questions, Five Answers comes on the heels of the November elections and the onslaught of headlines warning of new US tariffs affecting a wide range of the industry's supply chain. The conversation was recorded at the end of 2024, but its focus was squarely on 2025 and beyond.

In this inaugural episode, hosts Jon S. Bouker and Dan H. Renberg build on ArentFox Schiff's Election Analysis to explore the implications of the 2024 Presidential election results. They are joined by former Congressman Philip S. English and Oliver Spurgeon III, distinguished members of ArentFox Schiff's bipartisan Government Relations practice. Together, they discuss the Republican trifecta's impact on federal policy, the challenges facing the Trump administration, and the dynamics of trade policy. The conversation also examines the Democratic response and the future direction of policy, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) innovation.

In the second and final part of this series, Chairman Anthony V. Lupo is joined by Diane von Furstenberg at the inaugural AFS Fashion Insiders Executive Forum, where Diane reflects on her journey from a young girl unsure of her path to a powerful woman, shaped by her iconic dress design. She shares insights from the DVF documentary, discussing her fearless and authentic life, and emphasizes the importance of learning from life experiences, designing life with practicality and comfort, and embracing the philosophy that packing lightly equates to living lightly.

Across the fashion and retail markets, artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing design, marketing, and customer engagement. The legal implications surrounding intellectual property (IP) issues and the unchartered regulatory landscape puts companies at a crossroads. At last month's AFS Fashion Insiders Executives Forum, our panel of industry insiders pulled back the curtain on how companies are navigating this new terrain and emphasized the transformative impact AI will have on the fashion industry. Highlights include: AI is revolutionizing fashion design by predicting trends and significantly reducing design time and costs through generative AI. Nike is developing proprietary large language models for tailored designs, enhancing customer engagement through personalized marketing. Legal risks include copyright and IP infringement issues, necessitating caution with AI-generated content rights. In-house AI tools require careful evaluation and policies to ensure compliance with increasing disclosure requirements in the regulatory landscape. Virtual influencers offer cost savings but come with legal risks, emphasizing the importance of compliance with AI regulations for businesses. For questions on how your brand can take advantage of the opportunity AI presents, contact Chairman Anthony V. Lupo, AI, Metaverse & Blockchain Practice Co-Leader Dan Jasnow, or Associate Felicia A. Xu.

This episode of the Private Company Strategies podcast is the first of our series, From Start-Up to Stand-Out. Hosts Adam Diederich, Berin S. Romagnolo, and Sara Rosenberg discuss the essential legal considerations for starting a business in the United States. They cover topics such as the importance of forming a legal entity, the various types of entities available, tax implications, the significance of ownership agreements, and the necessity of hiring professional support. The conversation also touches on the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its requirements for new businesses.

In the latest installment of Five Questions, Five Answers, host Birgit Matthiesen is joined by Mr. Colin Bird, Canada's Consul General in Detroit, Michigan. Consul Bird serves as Canada's top representative for a large portion of the Great Lakes region. Among his many responsibilities, his job description is clear: to highlight the importance of one of the world's most dynamic cross-border manufacturing sector. In today's podcast, they focus on the electric mobility sector — from the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to the launch of the Binational Alternative Fuels Corridor. Birgit and Consul Bird turn to the future, reminding listeners of the tremendous support from Washington, DC, and Ottawa, Canada, for the electric mobility ecosystem. Highlights of the conversation include: Canada's public and private sector investments to increase the availability of electric vehicle (EV) critical minerals. The importance of cross-border EV manufacturing and corporate partnerships. The upcoming review of the USMCA. Detroit, Michigan's, announcement of the first Binational Alternative Fuels Corridor.

In the first installment of a two-part series, Chairman Anthony V. Lupo is joined by Diane von Furstenberg at the inaugural AFS Fashion Insiders Executive Forum, where Diane spoke about her career as a designer and how key moments shaped her into a top executive.

In the latest installment of Five Questions, Five Answers, host Birgit Matthiesen is joined by colleagues Dan Renberg, former member of the Board of Directors of the Export-Import Bank of the United States, and Kelsey Griswold-Berger, former long-time Congressional senior staff member who served as senior trade advisor to Finance Committee member Senator Richard Burr (R-NC).  They delve into the differing trade priorities of the presidential candidates, Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, while also exploring the future of trade agreements, the significance of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the dynamics of congressional races, and more. Highlights of the conversation include: How the two candidates differ on US trade policy. Insights into how congressional leadership will influence trade priorities. The future of the USMCA under either Administration. How ongoing geopolitical tensions are reshaping trade negotiations for the years ahead.

Just two weeks before the November elections, podcast host Birgit Matthiesen gathers her colleagues to talk US trade policy. Her guests are well known within the electric mobility industry — David R. Hamill, partner and International Trade & Investment practice leader, Antonio J. Rivera, Electric Mobility practice group leader, and Associate James Kim. Listen in as they untangle the news from Washington, DC, and its real-world implications for the electric mobility sector — from investment strategy to procurement options. They dive into ongoing US tariff applications, the complexity and tangle of trade regulations, and the importance of understanding critical legal definitions such as substantial transformation and “country of origin.” The discussion begins with the question of what a Trump 2.0 or Harris 1.0 Administration might change from the current direction of US trade regulations and tariffs in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions. It ends with a look ahead to the upcoming United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) review consultations in 2025 and what companies could be doing now to best position their industry when formal talks are launched in mid-2026. Highlights of the conversation include: How political landscapes significantly influence trade policies. Information on US tariffs and how they are designed to incentivize domestic manufacturing. Following the presidential election, US tariffs on a wide range of imports from China are likely to continue. Insights into how companies must prepare for the USMCA review in 2025. Asking the right questions to help untangle trade regulations.

In the latest installment of Five Questions, Five Answers, host Birgit Matthiesen sits down with Thomas Boylan, regulatory director at Zero Emission Transportation Association (ZETA), to discuss the importance and benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), specifically electric school buses, for public health, climate, and economic advantages. They delve into the need for public education and advocacy to drive the transition and the impact of trade policies and tariffs on the EV supply chain. The discussion also covers the significant role of grid modernization in supporting electric mobility and ZETA's future plans for policy implementation, defending tax incentives, and advocacy for the EV supply chain. They are also joined by Antonio Rivera, partner and leader of the firm's Electric Mobility practice, who provides the latest updates on Section 301 tariffs and their impacts on the industry. Highlights of the conversation include: - The public health, climate, and economic benefits of advancing the adoption of EVs, particularly electric school buses. - The necessity of public education and outreach to make school districts aware of funding opportunities for electric buses and assist them in navigating the competitive application process. - The role of grid modernization, including vehicle-to-grid applications and managed charging, in supporting the transition to electric mobility. - The impact of trade policies and tariffs on the EV supply chain, underscoring the need for advocacy to protect tax incentives and promote domestic manufacturing. - The continued commitment of ZETA to implement policies, defend tax incentives, and advocate for the EV supply chain, fostering a sustainable future.

In the latest installment of Five Questions, Five Answers, host Birgit Matthiesen is joined by International Trade & Investment Partner Leah Scarpelli to discuss the recent developments in US-China tariffs, specifically the Section 301 tariffs. Birgit and Leah delve into the potential implications of a 100% tariff on electric vehicles (EVs) from China, the May 14 conclusion of the Biden Administration's review of these longstanding tariffs, the Office of the US Trade Representative's (USTR) proposal that the tariffs will continue but most product exclusions will not, and the White House's call for public comment on these proposals. Highlights of the conversation include: • An in-depth analysis of the USTR's four-year review and its proposed changes. • The continuation and potential expansion of existing tariffs in certain sectors. • The introduction of a limited exclusion process for requesting exclusions from the tariffs. • The importance for importers to understand their supply chain and confirm the country of origin for shipments. • The encouragement for companies to submit public comments on the proposed modifications to the tariffs.

In the latest episode of Five Questions, Five Answers, Birgit Matthiesen sits down with Stephen Hanley, senior writer at CleanTechnica.com, to discuss the electric vehicle (EV) revolution and the concept of the "S curve."   They also discuss the factors that influence EV adoption, such as incentives, infrastructure, and consumer attitudes toward new technology.  Key Takeaways: - The EV revolution is alive and well in many parts of the world, with some countries like Norway already reaching mainstream acceptance. - The S curve tracks the adoption of new technologies, with 5% of customers investing in new technology being an important milestone.

In the latest installment of Five Questions, Five Answers, host Birgit Matthiesen is joined by International Trade & Investment Associate Jessica DiPietro for a deep dive into the complex world of aluminum extrusions. These ubiquitous materials, found in a broad spectrum of manufactured goods and across a multitude of industries, are currently under the microscope of a sweeping trade investigation led by Washington, DC. The potential outcome? Hefty import tariffs that could soar into triple digits. Birgit and Jessica offer a concise breakdown of the investigation, its potential triple-digit tariffs, and critical insights for company executives. Highlights of the conversation include: - The pivotal role of aluminum extrusions in key industries, notably automotive and transportation. - The intricate process of the trade investigation on aluminum extrusions, encompassing the filing of petitions and the determination of dumping and subsidization. - The broad scope of the investigation, encompassing a variety of products and countries. - The importance for companies to be proactive, specifically in reviewing their supply chain and determining the sourcing country for aluminum extrusions. - The various engagement opportunities in the investigation, including the submission of comments and participation in the International Trade Commission's (ITC) proceedings.

In this installment of Five Questions, Five Answers, Birgit Matthiesen is joined by Dr. Austin Brown, the Office Director at the US Department of Energy (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office. In this conversation, Dr. Brown shares with listeners the role his Office plays in the Administration's Clean Energy initiative. Highlights of the conversation include: - The Administration's ongoing support for the US electric mobility sector. - The number of incentives and programs encouraging the development of clean energy technology, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. - The DOE's initiatives to expand the availability of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

In the latest installment of Five Questions, Five Answers, Birgit Matthiesen is joined by Leah Scarpelli, a Partner with the firm's International Trade & Investment Practice. In this end-of-year discussion, Birgit and Leah provide listeners with the latest news from Washington on US “special” 301 tariffs – where things stood at the end of 2023 and what to expect in 2024. Highlights of the conversation include: - The significance of US trade tensions with China and US 301 tariffs. - Recent announcements from the US Trade Representative's (USTR) Office inviting comments on the continuation of these tariffs and comments in regard to current product exclusions. - The uncertainties surrounding tariff extensions and potential retaliation from China.

In the latest installment of WorldSmart, Hunter Carter is joined by Partner Malcolm McNeil and the CEO of FLOGEN Technologies, Dr. Florian Kongoli, to explore the intricate relationship between sustainability, technology, and the intersection of science, law, and medicine. Dr. Kongoli discusses his company's work in the chemistry and metal industries and his involvement in FLOGEN Stars Outreach, a nonprofit organization committed to increasing the visibility of scientists and engineers in society. From November 27 - December 1, Hunter Carter will join SIPS' Carter International Symposium in Panama, honoring his distinguished work and lifetime achievements in international arbitration and human rights advocacy. Engage in round table discussions with high-level representatives, exploring pathways towards sustainability in various industries and disciplines. Learn more here.

In the latest episode of Fashion Counsel, AFS Chairman Anthony V. Lupo is joined by Thomas Crispi, AFS Product Liability and Mass Torts Practice leader, to discuss how retailers and manufacturers can anticipate potential product issues and have a plan in place to handle US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) inquires, class actions, and probable liability.

In Part 2 of 15 Minutes on Congress: Appropriations Edition, ArentFox Schiff Government Relations partner and podcast host Dan Renberg is joined by Bruce Evans, former Senate Appropriations Committee Minority Staff Director and Capitol Hill veteran with over three decades of experience, to discuss the complexities of the appropriations process in Congress and provide insight into subcommittee allocations and the continuing resolution (CR) process. Highlights of the conversation include: • Factors influencing subcommittee allocations: chairman's priorities, committee members' priorities, and minority party consultation; • Coordinate challenges between the US Senate and House when setting 302B allocations; • Stakeholders influencing 302B allocations by focusing on significant amounts or broader impact matters; • House and Senate coordination during CR creation that keeps the government running when appropriations bills miss deadlines; • The front matter, anomalies, add-ons, and communication with the White House and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) during CR creations; • External lobbying for CR items, and additions that must be significant and fit the CR context.

The ArentFox Schiff's Electric Mobility team was delighted to accept an invitation from the organizers of The Battery Show, billed as the largest advanced battery event in North America. This year's conference was in Novi, Michigan, a strategic suburb of Motor Town Michigan. The team's Antonio Rivera was the featured speaker on a panel titled: "Winning the Global EV Race." The conference attracted thousands of corporate representatives and over 800 exhibitors involved in the electric vehicle battery industry. In their latest podcast, host Birgit Matthiesen is joined by team members David Hamill, Antonio Rivera, and James Kim who share key takeaways from the conference. As David, the Electric Mobility group chair, noted, "winning the Global EV Race means first winning the US EV race!” Whether you attended the Battery Show or were unable to make it, this podcast provides a "you were there" summary, complete with up-to-date insights from the EV team.

In this installment of Five Questions, Five Answers, Birgit Matthiesen hosts David Hamill, the International Trade & Investment Practice Leader at ArentFox Schiff. Later this month, David and the Electric Mobility Practice team head to Novi, Michigan, where they have been asked to speak to a corporate audience at the Battery Show, the largest advanced battery and H/EV event in North America. As a lead up to that event, Birgit and David talk strategy and the sophisticated use of trade rules. Listen as they discuss critical policy and rule developments from Washington affecting the entire vehicle supply chain and how the next immediate years can be game changers for many companies. The firm's Electric Mobility Practice team will be well known to many listeners. Our alerts published on our website offer insight and analysis based on years of experience with business executives and association leaders. This conversation brings that experience to bear and “untangles” the myriad of new US trade regulations affecting the ever-evolving and dynamic vehicle manufacturing sector.

In the latest installment of 15 Minutes on Congress, ArentFox Schiff Government Relations partner and podcast host Dan Renberg and former Senate Appropriations Committee Staff Member Andrew Newton explore the intricacies of the appropriations process in the US Senate and House.

In the inaugural edition of 15 Minutes on Congress, host Dan Renberg is joined by his colleagues, former Sen. Byron Dorgan, former Congressman Phil English, and Reed Freeman, as they delve into the complexities of artificial intelligence (AI) regulation in Congress, addressing the challenges posed and the far-reaching implications of AI development on a global scale. Highlights of the conversation include: • The increasing attention to the concept of AI regulation, with both Republicans and Democrats seeking to develop regulatory frameworks. • Various approaches to AI regulation, such as creating a National Commission, an AI agency, and a Bill of Rights. • The importance of stakeholders in AI working closely with Congress to guide regulatory approaches. • Similarities between the rise of the internet and AI, emphasizing the challenges in comprehending the technology and its implications. • A growing consensus on principles for AI regulation, focused on ensuring AI systems are safe, effective, and transparent. • The challenge of balancing technological advancements with necessary regulations, considering the global aspect of AI development.

In this WorldSmart podcast, host Hunter T. Carter is joined by ArentFox Schiff Partner Sarah A. W. Fitts, as well as PPO Legal & Tax Partners Carlos Pinto and Pablo Ordonez, to discuss the lithium mining industry in Bolivia, its economic impact, and the role of the private sector.  Bolivia is striving to balance the opportunities and risks associated with lithium mining, particularly given the global demand for lithium in electric vehicle batteries. Lithium production is expected to grow significantly in the next five years, with international companies investing in the country. The emphasis in the coming years will be on transitioning to a post-fossil economy in Bolivia, focusing on lithium and other mining sectors. Highlights of the conversation include: - Bolivia has a significant lithium resource that is currently underexploited. - The country has shifted its policy from a purely state-owned approach to one involving joint ventures with private companies. - Foreign investment is expected to increase as Bolivia is seen as a strategic location for lithium production. - Political stability in the country is improving, making it more attractive for foreign investment. Bolivia is aiming for a post-fossil economy, focusing on lithium and other mining sectors.

The AFS team traveled to Sacramento June 13th to participate at EVS 36, hosted this year by the Electric Drive Transportation Association. The conversation covers the formal presentation the team gave to EVS 36 attendees as well as the separate session we offered entitled The Tangle of US Trade Rules for the Electric Mobility Industry. This podcast is moderated by Dan Deeb, partner and Energy & Cleantech Industry Group co-leader. Dan is joined by the team's David Hamill, Antonio Rivera, James Kim, and Birgit Matthiesen. If you attended this important global event or were unable to, this latest podcast is organized to give our listeners a “you were there” summary and with added up-to-date insights from our team. Listen and download the AFS presentation. “Smart in Your World” – for us at ArentFox Schiff, it's more than a tag line.

In the inaugural episode of our Energy Podcast, join former US Senator Byron Dorgan, former US Congressman Phil English, and Amy Antoniolli as they discuss the intricacies of energy permitting reform, it's critical role in the US's clean energy transition goals, and the challenges arising under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Key issues include: • infrastructure development • bipartisan reform efforts in Congress • litigation reform • energy security transmission projects

In this episode of Five Questions, Five Answers, Birgit Matthiesen speaks with Dr. John D. Graham of the Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs. Dr. Graham has authored or coauthored a number of works including his latest book - The Global Rise of the Modern Plug-In Electric Vehicle: Public Policy, Innovation and Strategy (Elgar House Publishing. UK, 2021). Dr. Graham will join Birgit on a panel at EVS 36 in Sacramento on June 13, 2023.  This conversation is a preview of their panel and their insight into the challenges and opportunities ahead for the EV sector. Topics include the trade concepts introduced in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and the broader trade enforcement priorities launched by Washington in recent months.

In this podcast, Birgit Matthiesen speaks with Bob Kirke, the Executive Director of the Canadian Apparel Federation, who will share the very latest about Canada's efforts to ban imports suspected of having been made with forced and child labor. Given the nature of the North American apparel and textile market, how Canada will enforce S. 211, the Fighting Against Forced Labor and Child Labor in Supply Chains Act, will be important to watch. Canada's direction does not precisely mirror Washington's Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, leaving executives to decide whether the U.S. reporting and disclosure requirements should be adopted for their NA operations. Listen to Bob's fascinating discussion of how S. 211 became law, what might be next on Ottawa's agenda and the new Canadian Customs requirements beginning January 1, 2024. The takeaway quote from Bob: “Most Canadian companies if they are able to deal with UFLPA, they can deal with anything that CBSA is going to do.”

In the inaugural episode of Corporate Corner, hosts Scott Adamson and William D'Angelo speak with AFS Partner Adam Diederich to discuss the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which will take effect in 2024.  The CTA requires private companies - both domestic and foreign - to report information about their beneficial owners to FinCEN to prevent illegal activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing. The CTA exempts certain categories of entities that already disclose this information to other regulatory bodies, as well as certain large operating entities. Scott, Bill, and Adam will also discuss the penalties for willful false or fraudulent information or willful failure to complete a report, exclusions, reporting deadlines, potential constitutional challenges, enforcement, and the role of law firms in helping companies comply with the new regulations.

In the latest installment of Private Company Strategies, William D'Angelo and Adam Diederich are again joined by Kevin Matz, Private Clients, Trusts & Estates Partner at ArentFox Schiff, to discuss the hottest topics in estate planning for owners of private companies. In the second of this two-part series, Bill, Adam, and Kevin discuss in depth the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which will require certain covered private companies (such as LLCs that don't qualify for exemption) to disclose information about themselves, their company applicants, and their beneficial owners to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) of the US Department of Treasury. The CTA becomes effective on January 1, 2024, and will drastically impact private companies by imposing significant new reporting obligations upon many of them. This podcast explains how private companies can start preparing for the CTA.

In the latest installment of Private Company Strategies, William D'Angelo and Adam Diederich are joined by Kevin Matz, Private Clients, Trusts & Estates Partner at ArentFox Schiff, to discuss the hottest topics in estate planning for owners of private companies.  In this Part 1 of a two-part series, Bill, Adam, and Kevin discuss (i) the temporary increase (until December 31, 2025) in the exclusion amount for federal estate and gift tax purposes and its significant impact on estate planning; (ii) gifting and leverage transfer strategies for owners of interests in private companies; and (iii) the IRS's recent challenges to grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs).

Canada's 2023-2024 Budget was announced on March 28th, four days after the visit to Ottawa by President Biden. The budget introduces close to $20 billion (CDN) in clean energy investments and new tax credits for clean electricity and new equipment for the sector. Birgit Matthiesen talks to David Adams, President and CEO of Global Automakers Canada who was on Parliament Hill at the time of the budget's release.

In this installment of the Private Company Strategies podcast, William D'Angelo and Sarah Severson discuss the business risks of not having incapacity and succession plans in place, as well as the need for uniform processes and the positive effects that can result from addressing these issues proactively.

How does ESG factor into the fashion industry? AFS Chairman Anthony V. Lupo is joined by Amy Antoniolli to discuss major ESG issues the industry is facing, the potential impact of the Metaverse and other digital opportunities, and which luxury products are leading the way.

The US Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. Will your Company be Ready in 2023? In this latest installment of Five Questions/Five Answers, Birgit Matthiesen speaks to her colleague, Samantha Overly, to get the latest from Washington on the roll out of the IRA. When will the rules kick in? Why the proposed rules will be important to watch. What will the rules dictate in regards to clean energy manufacturing and investment credits? Who can take advantage of these important incentives presented by the IRA?

In the first installment of the Private Company Strategies podcast, hosts and ArentFox Schiff partners William D'Angelo and Adam Diederich talk about how to get ahead of common causes of disputes in closely held companies to protect your business and prevent litigation.

In today's episode of Fashion Counsel, AFS Chairman Anthony Lupo is joined by Brian Schneider to discuss how brands can find the balance between risk and control over downstream pricing by wholesalers and retailers, while staying on the right side of the antitrust laws.

After pushing through the most challenging periods of COVID-19's impact on the global supply chains, companies have focused on streamlining manufacturing and distribution, putting Mexico in the spotlight. Hunter Carter and Malcolm McNeil speak with the executive regional director of the US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, Marlen Marroquin, about why Mexico has captured the attention of US companies today, covering current issues in the maquiladora industry and trends like nearshoring.

In this episode of 5Q5A, Birgit Matthiesen invites AFS Partner Kay Georgi to guide listeners through recent changes to US Export Controls surrounding a recent interim final rule. Companies will see ramifications on what they sell out of the country and to whom, directly impacting the future of our trade relationship with China. * This episode was recorded before the BIS FAQs were released.

The USTR is seeking public comments in their 4-year review process of these double-digit tariffs. It's an important time for importers and a critical opportunity. Birgit Matthiesen speaks to Leah Scarpelli to find out where things stand and what companies should be considering in the days ahead.

In this podcast, Birgit Matthiesen talks to Steve LeVine about the fast-paced electric vehicle industry and the global competition of its supply chain. AFS colleague, James Kim, joins the conversation with his thoughts on the Inflation Reduction Act and US trade rules and their important role in determining sourcing and production.