Davide De Vido is an Italian lawyer with more than 20 years of experience in commercial litigation. In 2019, Davide has created FiDeAL® with the aim to import the tool of litigation funding in Italy and democratize access to justice for every individual, company or entity to pursue meritorious disputes. Prior to foundingFiDeAL, Davide was the General Counsel of a large Italian construction firm, and then of an international eyewear firm. Company name and description: FiDeAL® is the first Italian litigation finance consultancy company, and it is also specialized in managing and funding small/mid-sized disputes. FiDeAL® is focused on Italian litigation - disputes that involves an Italian party and/or Italian jurisdiction - but not limited to them. In fact, during its activity, FiDeAL® has supported several Clients, and their law firms, in finding the right funding solutions for international disputes (arbitration and judicial claims). Recently, FiDeAL® has enlarged its services range, offering litigation insurance consultancy and W&I's consultancy for M&A transactions too. FiDeAL® is also developing two more projects: (i) the creation of a business angel community dedicated to financing small/mid-sized disputes and (ii) a LegalTech project. Company website: Litigation Funding o Finanziamento della lite | FiDeAL Year Founded: 2019 Headquarters: via Venezia, 59 - 31020 San Vendemiano (TV), Italy Area of focus: FiDeAL® works indiscriminately with individual, company and other entities. It offers advice and support to find finance or insurance solutions for a wide range of disputes: Commercial litigation, Class and collective action lawsuits, Personal injuries, Intellectual property, Environmental litigation, Antitrust and competition law, Construction dispute, Real estate litigation, securities litigation, Enforcement award and so on. Member quote: "Funders often say that litigation funding is useful for pursuing David vs. Goliath disputes. Who better than me (Davide) can recognize the value of this statement?" "With the UN's 2030 Agenda, litigation funding can ensure access to justice for all and can contribute to achieving Goal 16 for more sustainable justice."

LitFin Capital, a Prague-based litigation finance provider and one of the largest players in Europe, has enriched the investment landscape by launching one of the first qualified investor funds for litigation finance in continental Europe. Developed in partnership with WOOD & Company, a major Czech investment firm, this innovative fund presents a unique opportunity for investors seeking uncorrelated market returns. "We're extremely thrilled that after significant preparation time, as this is still a new asset class, we came to the successful setting up of the fund," says Ondrej Tylecek, partner at LitFin overseeing the investments of the group. Primarily focused on investing in significant LitFin cases, the fund aims to deliver an impressive net return of around 15% per annum. "This venture marks a strategic move by LitFin to take advantage of the lack of competitors in this space and introduce a distinctive investment path that remains resilient and independent of traditional financial market fluctuations," adds Tylecek. By entering this territory of regulated investment funds, LitFin aims to provide investors with an exclusive opportunity to diversify their portfolios and tap into a niche market with significant potential. Partnering with WOOD & Company, known for its prestige and expertise in investment management, further solidifies the fund's credibility and promise of delivering exceptional results. The creation of LitFin SICAV not only represents a milestone for LitFin Capital, but also allows to offer litigation finance participation to smaller investors seeking strategic opportunities in alternative assets. Investors are encouraged to take advantage of this unprecedented opportunity to participate in a venture that promises both financial rewards and new diversification possibilities. The development of litigation finance in the European market is very promising over the next few years, thanks to the growing understanding of its benefits and the maturing legal environment inspired by common law countries. This shift is likely to widen the range of cases eligible for funding and boost the volume of capital invested.

LitFin Capital, a Prague-based litigation finance provider and one of the largest players in Europe, has enriched the investment landscape by launching one of the first qualified investor funds for litigation finance in continental Europe. Developed in partnership with WOOD & Company, a major Czech investment firm, this innovative fund presents a unique opportunity for investors seeking uncorrelated market returns. "We're extremely thrilled that after significant preparation time, as this is still a new asset class, we came to the successful setting up of the fund," says Ondrej Tylecek, partner at LitFin overseeing the investments of the group. Primarily focused on investing in significant LitFin cases, the fund aims to deliver an impressive net return of around 15% per annum. "This venture marks a strategic move by LitFin to take advantage of the lack of competitors in this space and introduce a distinctive investment path that remains resilient and independent of traditional financial market fluctuations," adds Tylecek. By entering this territory of regulated investment funds, LitFin aims to provide investors with an exclusive opportunity to diversify their portfolios and tap into a niche market with significant potential. Partnering with WOOD & Company, known for its prestige and expertise in investment management, further solidifies the fund's credibility and promise of delivering exceptional results. The creation of LitFin SICAV not only represents a milestone for LitFin Capital, but also allows to offer litigation finance participation to smaller investors seeking strategic opportunities in alternative assets. Investors are encouraged to take advantage of this unprecedented opportunity to participate in a venture that promises both financial rewards and new diversification possibilities. The development of litigation finance in the European market is very promising over the next few years, thanks to the growing understanding of its benefits and the maturing legal environment inspired by common law countries. This shift is likely to widen the range of cases eligible for funding and boost the volume of capital invested.

In a landmark decision by the International Trade Commission (ITC), Apple's highest-grossing wearables faced unprecedented importation restrictions, marking a pivotal moment in the protracted patent dispute with medical device-maker Masimo. To put the magnitude into perspective, Apple's wearables, home, and accessory business raked in a staggering $8.28 billion in revenue in the third quarter of 2023. This ruling disrupts the very core of Apple's most popular and revenue-generating wearables, adding a seismic impact to the already intense legal battle with Masimo. This article delves into the transformative capabilities of Generative AI platforms, shedding light on how these technologies are reshaping both proactive and reactive litigation practices against the backdrop of such a significant industry development. Elevating Efficiency in Patent Litigation: A Generative AI Perspective Strategic Edge for Law Firms and Litigators:

1. Streamlined Data Management:
   • Generative AI platforms streamline the upload and organization of voluminous case documents, enhancing law firms' and litigators' capability to manage data efficiently.
2. Automated Analysis:
   • Leveraging Generative AI, legal professionals can automate analysis processes, extracting valuable insights from complex datasets swiftly and accurately.
3. Dynamic Adaptability:
   • Future-ready Generative AI platforms empower law firms and litigators to dynamically adapt to new information or shifting circumstances, providing a real-time strategic advantage.
4. Investor Collaboration:
   • Building and maintaining a comprehensive roster of investors becomes more manageable, facilitating efficient collaboration and attracting funding partners for legal fees.
5. Tailored Content Creation:
   • Generative AI platforms excel in generating tailored content for legal motions, analyzing writing styles and logic to ensure persuasive arguments that resonate effectively.
6. Communication Excellence:
   • Acting as central communication hubs, these platforms foster seamless collaboration and information exchange among legal professionals, enhancing overall communication efficiency.

Empowering Patent Owners in Proactive Management:

1. Organized Patent Portfolio:
   • Generative AI facilitates the creation of well-organized rosters of patents, providing patent owners with strategic control over their portfolios.
2. Capital Attraction:
   • Patent owners can leverage organized patent portfolios to attract funding for growth and innovation independently, reducing reliance on traditional fundraising approaches.
3. Self-Funded Litigation:
   • Generative AI platforms empower patent owners to gain better economic control, enabling them to self-fund litigation cases when required.
4. Global Coverage:
   • Future-ready platforms offer a comprehensive overview of patents, covering multiple regions and facilitating global enforcement.
5. Quality Assurance:
   • While maintaining human-in-the-loop functionality, Generative AI ensures robust quality checks and efficient data management.

Masimo vs. Apple: A Glimpse into the Future of Patent Litigation The recent ITC ruling in Masimo vs. Apple serves as a poignant reminder to businesses about the critical importance of being in the driver's seat when it comes to managing their own patents and capitalizing on innovation. While Masimo, a sizable player in the industry, successfully navigated the legal terrain to secure favorable outcomes, it prompts reflection on how smaller companies might face more significant challenges in achieving similar results. This underscores the significance of businesses taking control of their intellectual property and innovation strategies. For smaller companies, such as those without the resources of a Masimo, being in the driver's seat is not just a strategic choice but a necessity. The Masimo vs. Apple case illuminates the power dynamic in patent disputes and the role that control over one's intellectual property plays in shaping the outcomes. Smaller entities, with limited resources, may find themselves at a disadvantage in legal battles, making it imperative for them to proactively manage their patents, navigate legal landscapes, and capitalize on their innovations. Generative AI platforms emerge as a leveling force in this scenario. By harnessing the power of generative solutions, smaller law firms gain a more competitive edge without the need for extensive headcount. This democratization of legal capabilities levels the playing field, allowing smaller firms to stand shoulder to shoulder with their larger counterparts. The transformative potential of generative AI platforms extends beyond just litigation; it opens up avenues for smaller entities to actively participate in the competitive capital market. In essence, a more equitable competitive capital market is crucial for fostering innovation. Generative AI platforms become the key to sustaining this trend. They empower businesses, regardless of size, to actively shape their legal strategies, manage patents efficiently, and capitalize on their innovative potential. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, embracing generative AI not only ensures a fairer competitive environment but also fosters a culture of innovation where businesses of all sizes can thrive.  As the patent community adapts to the demands of complex patent disputes, Generative AI platforms emerge as indispensable tools, revolutionizing both proactive and reactive litigation practices. This nuanced approach empowers law firms, litigators, and patent owners alike, offering a glimpse into the future of patent litigation where efficiency, data-driven strategies, and collaboration take center stage amidst the landmark shifts brought on by significant industry developments. About the author: Joshua Masia, Co-founder & CEO of DealBridge.ai, brings a wealth of experience from leadership roles at JPMorgan Chase, BlackRock, and iCapital. With a BS in Electrical Engineering, Josh has spent 15 years shaping technical and business solutions. At DealBridge.ai, Josh leads the charge in transforming private markets. Their platform, powered by Generative AI, automates deal complexities, streamlining origination, due diligence, and distribution. Eliminating traditional processes, DealBridge.ai empowers seamless connections, enhancing the human experience in deal-making. Under Josh's vision, DealBridge.ai maximizes revenue potential through automation, redefining legal, insurance, and financial transactions. As a trailblazer, Josh and DealBridge.ai usher in a transformative era in deal relationship management.

Montauk Metals Inc. (TSX-V: MTK) (the “Company” or “Montauk”) is pleased to announce that it is been advanced US$200,000 (the “Loan Amount”) pursuant to the loan and option agreement (the “Loan Agreement”) with Omni Bridgeway (Fund 5) Canada Investments Ltd. (“Omni”), as previously announced in its news release on November 9, 2023. The Loan Amount was advanced to the Company in connection with the execution of promissory note by Montauk in favour of Omni (the “Note”). Montauk brought arbitration proceedings (the “Arbitration”) against the Republic of Colombia (“Colombia”) to enforce the Company’s rights to compensation under the Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (the “FTA”), as previously described in its news releases of March 27, 2018, February 25, 2019, February 10, 2020, November 23, 2021, September 1, 2023, October 5, 2023 and November 9, 2023 and subject to certain conditions and approvals as noted below. Montauk contends that Colombia breached its obligations owed to the Company, including specific obligations under the FTA. The claims include Colombia’s refusal or failure to compensate the Company for the losses with respect to the Company’s Reina de Oro project incurred as a consequence of Colombia’s prohibition of mining in the páramos (high altitude eco-systems). On March 21, 2018, Montauk filed a Request for Arbitration against the Republic of Colombia before the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (“ICSID”). The Arbitration is being conducted in two phases. Phase One will determine whether the ICSID Tribunal adjudicating Montauk’s claims (the “Tribunal”) under the FTA has jurisdiction over this case and whether Colombia has breached its obligations under the FTA and is liable for compensation to the Company. Assuming that ICSID decides in favour of Montauk in Phase 1 (the “Phase 1 Decision”), Phase 2 of the arbitration (“Phase 2”) will involve determining the quantum of damages awarded to Montauk to compensate it for losses incurred. The Company must make a payment of US$200,000 to ICSID (the “ICSID Payment”) before a ruling on Phase 1 is rendered. The Company has advanced the Loan Amount to ICSID to satisfy the ICSID Payment and expects for this to result in the issuance of a decision on jurisdiction and liability. The ICSID payment was originally required to be paid on or before November 9, 2023 (the “Payment Deadline”), however the Company advised ICSID that the Agreements (as defined below) were subject to the approval of shareholders at a meeting of shareholders to be held on December 14, 2023 (the “Meeting”), and accordingly ICSID indicated that they would extend the Payment Deadline until after the shareholders vote to approve the Agreements at the Meeting. Shareholders of the Company approved the Agreements at the Meeting. Litigation Funding The Loan Agreement grants Omni the option, exercisable in the sole discretion of Omni (the “Phase 2 Election”) to provide litigation funding to the Company pursuant to an arbitration funding agreement (the “AFA”, and together with the Loan Agreement, the “Agreements”). The Company, Omni and Lenczner Slaght LLP entered into the AFA, which, should Omni exercise the Phase 2 Election, provides Montauk an initial funding amount of up to US$2,325,000 (the “Non-Recourse Funding Amount”) subject to certain conditions. The Non-Recourse Funding Amount will be used to fund Phase 2 and may be increased in certain circumstances as may be agreed upon between the Corporation and Omni. If Omni elects to provide the Non-Recourse Funding Amount for Phase 2 and the enforcement of any award obtained by the Company in the Arbitration, the Loan Amount and interest shall be repaid through proceeds recovered in the Arbitration (and in the event there are no proceeds recovered in the Arbitration, such amount inclusive of such interest shall be payable by the Company at the conclusion of the Arbitration). Please see the Company’s press release issued on November 9, 2023 and management information circular dated November 9, 2023 for further information on the Agreements. Omni’s return on the Non-Recourse Funding Amount (the “Omni Return”) will be limited solely to recovery from the amount of money for which the Arbitration is settled, or for which a final, non-appealable award is given in favour of the Corporation (the “Litigation Proceeds”). The Omni Return shall be an amount calculated as the sum of (i) a multiple of the amounts actually incurred of the Non-Recourse Litigation Funding Amount and (ii) a percentage of the gross recovery proceeds, both calculated when the recovery proceeds are received, as set out in the table below:

Months	Multiple	Percentage
0-12	2.0x	12%
12-24	3.0x	14%
24+	3.5x	16%

For any resolution that occurs on or after thirty-six (36) months from the date Omni makes a positive Phase 2 Election, Omni’s Return shall bear interest at the rate of twelve percent (12%) per annum, accruing and compounding on a monthly basis. The Litigation Proceeds, if received, will be disbursed in the following order of priority: (a) Omni shall be reimbursed the Recourse Loan and the amounts actually incurred of the Non-Recourse Funding Amount; (b) Omni shall be paid the Omni Return and legal counsel shall be paid their legal fees; and (c) the balance shall be paid to the Corporation. In connection with the Loan Agreement, Note and LFA, the Company has agreed to grant Omni a continuing first priority security interest over any and all assets of the Company (whether presently held or acquired after the date hereof), including the Company’s interest in any Litigation Proceeds. The Company cannot guarantee that it will be successful at the Arbitration, or that the estimated amounts disclosed herein will not be revised as the Arbitration proceeds. The Company also cannot guarantee that it will be able to recover all or part of its legal and arbitration costs from Colombia even if it is successful at the Arbitration. Management of the Company will continue to provide updates on material developments of the status of the Arbitration. Private Placement Withdrawal Due to securing the foregoing funding, the Company will not be proceeding with the proposed private placement that was previously announced by the Company on October 5, 2023. RISK DISCLOSURE STATEMENT: At the present time, the Company’s payment obligations are substantially in excess of its cash balances and it has no other assets. The Company is not solvent and cannot continue as a going concern. Trading in shares of the Company and any investment in the Company is highly speculative. No trading in securities of the Company or investment should be made without being able to lose the entire amount of such funds. See below, “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements”. Investors are advised to seek professional advice before making any decision to trade in or invest in the securities of the Company.