Question
We are a SaaS fintech startup based in California. We are told that an early protection of our trademarks is important, but does that mean only the U.S. trademark? If we were to apply in all countries (if we could) wouldn't that get very expensive? What's the usual recommended approach for startups like us?
Answers: 5 public & 1 private
Ms Kadieva has provided you with excellent advice and it is a strategy I would certainly recommend. If you wanted to stagger the cost of your international TM protection, you might also consider using a system known as 'Convention Priority'. Effectively, it means that you have six months to file and backdate your 'Madrid' international application to the date you filed your US application. By claiming 'convention priority', you can conduct the necessary due diligence (clearance searches) in the intervening period. A 'convention priority' claim will also pre-empt third parties who spot your US application and attempt to get in with an international application for the same trademark before you do. Provided you claim priority, your International 'Madrid' application will take priority.
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