On October 30, 2023, President Biden announced a sweeping new Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence (EO). The EO signals an “all-hands-on-deck” approach, with roles for agencies across the federal government, proposed requirements and/or guidance that will apply both to companies that offer artificial intelligence (AI)-related services and those that consume such services, and still-unfolding implications for the legal operation of such businesses. Highlights of the EO for providers and consumers of AI products and services...

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This newsflash summarises three of the most important OECD and EU tax developments released in October 2023. 1. OECD multilateral convention implementing Pillar 2 subject to tax rule open for signature On 3 October 2023, the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on BEPS announced it had concluded negotiations on a multilateral convention (“MLC”) implementing the Pillar 2 subject to tax rule (“STTR”). The STTR is part of the 2-Pillar solution to address tax challenges from the digitalisation of the economy and complements the...

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Reflective of the Government’s increasing focus on cybersecurity, on October 3, 2023, the Federal Acquisition Regulation Council (FAR Council) released two new proposed rules that will have major impacts on federal contractors. These rules implement the May 2021 Executive Order on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity.1 One rule applies to any federal contractor that uses information and communications technology (ICT) systems in the performance of a federal contract, sets forth cybersecurity incident reporting requirements, and imposes a software bill of...

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In this week’s Roar: net zero emissions by 2050, the container market, diesel prices trending up, West Coast ports doing better, and a supply chain warning system. The shipping industry has a goal to reach net zero emissions by 2050, but there are questions as to whether this is achievable. A lot of things need to change or be improved, including new technologies in ship design, like smaller engines and improved hull shape — or perhaps lower-cost solutions like wind power, waste heat...

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Today, sustainable procurement is more important than ever due to increasing climate, environmental and social concerns. What was once a voluntary tool which was considered to have marginal additionality, has now become the key driver for tackling climate change and achieving just transition goals. In 2023, the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) Heads of Procurement, including the EIB, created a Working Group on Sustainable Public Procurement. This group aims to prompt and accelerate environmental, social, economic, and borrower institutional sustainability outcomes in the projects...

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Digital access management company, iLOQ, has signed a global Master Supply Agreement with Honeywell, a global supplier of industry specific solutions. Honeywell Building Technologies operates in more than 75 countries and is supported by a global channel partner network. Its solutions and services are used in more than 10 million buildings worldwide. Commercial building owners and operators are dealing with Honeywell Building Technologies to create safe, efficient and productive facilities. “The purchase of access management solutions from iLOQ demonstrates that Honeywell...

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In an era of escalating environmental challenges, the European Union (EU) introduces a groundbreaking policy: the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). This article offers an in-depth exploration of CBAM, a strategic initiative designed to harmonize the EU's ambitious climate objectives with international trade practices. By addressing the complexities of carbon leakage and establishing a level playing field for domestic and foreign producers, CBAM marks a significant step in the EU's journey towards a sustainable future. This comprehensive overview examines...

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Thompson Hine recently published its inaugural internal environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, “Always Thinking Ahead,” which highlights the firm’s investments, achievements and ongoing initiatives to operate responsibly and sustainably.The report outlines the firm’s comprehensive ESG program development process, which started with conducting a prioritization assessment to assist in defining key metrics that are essential to Thompson Hine’s stakeholders and help hone its ESG strategy, improve internal reporting and public disclosure processes, and identify business opportunities to support growth and innovation....

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