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400 million euro French support scheme for digitizing historic films found to be permissible state aid

 |  March 22, 2012

The European Commission has approved a €400 million French support plan for digitizing, restoring, and preserving historic films. The covered films include those produced up to 1999, and especially those whose money-making prospects are highly uncertain or very long-term. The amount of aid to devote to each film will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Applicants for digitization can choose the company that will be performing the technical work; the company does not need to be established in a Member State.

The French scheme is in line with Article 107(3)(d) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU), which allows state aid to be granted for cultural purposes under certain conditions. The Commission found that the aid will promote the preservation of European film heritage, as well as its dissemination with the assistance of new technology.

Full content: EC Press Release

 

Related content: The State Aid Action Plan: A Bold Move or a Timid Step in the Right Direction? (Frederic Jenny, ESSEC Business School)

Norton Rose Adds Antitrust Partners in Italy Norton Rose Adds Antitrust Partners in Italy

Norton Rose Adds Antitrust Partners in Italy

 |  January 20, 2025

Norton Rose Fulbright has announced the addition of two seasoned professionals, Veronica Pinotti and Martino Sforza, to its antitrust and competition practice in Milan. According to a statement released by the firm on Monday, both lawyers have joined as partners, bringing a wealth of expertise in various facets of competition law.

Martino Sforza’s practice focuses on a range of areas, including consumer protection, data privacy, and regulated markets, in addition to his extensive work in antitrust matters. His broad experience makes him a valuable addition to the firm’s Milan office.

Veronica Pinotti, also joining from White & Case, specializes in advising clients on complex legal matters involving joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, cartels, and abuse of dominance. She is also highly experienced in navigating state aid issues and regulatory concerns.

Source: Bloomberg