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At the idea stage of a startup, enthusiasm often takes the place of written agreements. People develop the concept, write code, build the brand, join programmes and contribute unpaid work—assuming that ownership, roles and responsibilities can be settled later. Two recent matters reminded us of the cost of that approach. In one, the departure and...
When an EU Trademark (EUTM) is infringed, for example, where a third party uses an identical or confusingly similar sign, there are two routes available. The first is the administrative tool before the EUIPO (the European Union Intellectual Property Office), such as opposition against a filed application. The second is the judicial route. This article focuses on the judicial route: which courts are competent, what types of actions can be brought, and, crucially, how the choice of forum affects the territorial reach of the court’s decision. 1) Which courts are competent? Claims relating to EU trademarks are not filed before the...
Funding start-ups by individuals (so-called angel investors) is not only a growth tool for start-ups. In Greece, it is also linked to a tax incentive for individuals, subject to specific conditions and strict implementation requirements. The framework is set out in Ministerial Decision (MD) No. 39937/2021 (Government Gazette, Series B, No. 1415/9.4.2021), which specifies Article 70A of the Greek Income Tax Code (ITC). 1) Who is considered an “angel investor” and which business is considered a “start-up” An angel investor is an individual (a Greek or foreign tax resident) holding a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM), who contributes cash capital to start-ups for the purpose of investing in them and supporting their growth. For the purposes of the incentive, a start-up is a Société Anonyme (Α.Ε.) / Limited Liability Company (EPE) / Private Company (IKE) with its registered seat in Greece, which is registered...
Registration in the National Registry of Startups (Elevate Greece) is not a mere formality. It requires, on the one hand, that specific formal eligibility criteria are met and, on the other, that the company demonstrates it has the characteristics of a startup —namely innovation and scalability— pursuant to Joint Ministerial Decision (JMD) No. 134622 (Government...
NDAs (Non-Disclosure Agreements) protect information that is commercially valuable to your business: know-how, source code, trade secrets, product roadmaps, and financial terms. They are used before presentations, pilot collaborations (PoCs), hires in sensitive roles, or due-diligence exercises. To be effective, they require proper legal drafting, not a generic template. Why an off-the-shelf NDA is insufficient: Each project has different information flows, counterparties, and risks. Generic forms often: leave gaps for subcontractors, affiliates and professional advisers, select unsuitable jurisdiction or forum,...
Disclaimer: This text’s purpose is exclusively informative. It does not substitute legal advice. Each case is different and requires an individual approach- contact us for further guidance. Payment delays affect liquidity of businesses, whether the creditor or the debtor is based in Greece or abroad. Our Firm, Ratio Legal Services, supports consistently Greek and International...
The short-term rental model, led by platforms like Airbnb, has emerged as a highly appealing business opportunity for property owners and investors in the tourism sector. However, as with any rapidly growing industry, it involves important legal considerations that must be addressed to ensure compliant and secure operations. Below are some key points for those...
Travelers’ increasing desire for authentic experiences in nature, culture, and gastronomy has boosted interest in agritourism and wine tourism in Greece. These sectors can generate new income streams in rural or semi-rural areas, blending sustainable development with local heritage and traditions. Nevertheless, any investment or business initiative in these fields requires careful legal preparation and...
In recent years, Greece has taken deliberate steps to attract individuals who wish to relocate for tax reasons, lifestyle benefits, or professional opportunities. Whether you are a retiree drawn by the Mediterranean climate, a high-net-worth individual exploring non-dom regimes, or a professional seeking Greece’s new digital nomad provisions, understanding the fundamental aspects of transferring tax...
Security companies play a critical role in safeguarding individuals, facilities, and assets, offering services closely tied to public safety and order. Given the nature of this industry, these businesses must comply with a strict regulatory framework, while also facing a range of practical and ethical challenges that demand careful attention. Below is a concise overview...
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