Global Shifts & Tech Triumphs: Navigating Sustainability, Innovation, and Market Dynamics
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Get ready for a ride through the pulse of 2025! From bold moves in global policy to revolutionary tech breakthroughs, this edition is packed with the stories driving change across industries and nations. Whether it’s the heated debates on climate action, groundbreaking innovations in AI and drones, or new economic forces shaping the future, we’ve got the latest updates that are rewriting the rules. Join us as we explore the shifts that are not only reshaping the present but also paving the way for tomorrow.
Lets dive into :
US Reignites Climate Debate with Push to Exit Paris Agreement
In a bold move, president has once again committed to withdrawing the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement, a decision reminiscent of his 2017 stance, which was overturned by President Biden in 2021. The withdrawal, expected to be finalized in a year, follows the declaration of a "national energy emergency" by the White House. This will result in the reversal of numerous climate regulations in favor of boosting oil and gas production, furthering the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels.
This announcement comes at a critical moment, as 2024 marks the first year in which global temperatures have exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels—a major threshold established by the Paris Agreement. The United States, along with countries such as Iran and Yemen, will soon be outside the accord, signaling a retreat from global climate leadership. Additionally, the new administration plans to dismantle initiatives like the Green New Deal, cancel electric vehicle mandates, and halt federal wind farm projects, furthering the pivot away from renewable energy solutions.
WITH LAW's Writ:
The US’s renewed withdrawal from the Paris Agreement sends a troubling signal to the global community, particularly to developing nations that rely on the leadership of major emitters to drive meaningful climate action. This reversal threatens to stall progress on the transition to cleaner energy sources, potentially undermining international cooperation on climate change. While the exit may weaken the global momentum for emission reductions, it is unlikely to absolve the US from future international pressure to rejoin or meet its climate obligations. Legal challenges to the rollback of environmental regulations are anticipated, adding further uncertainty to the implementation of these changes.
Global Brands Urge EU to Safeguard Sustainability Laws Amid Proposed Changes
In advance of the European Union's Omnibus Proposal, set for release on February 26, 2025, major global companies, including Nestlé, Unilever, and Mars, have voiced concerns about potential disruptions to critical sustainability frameworks. The proposal aims to simplify EU sustainability reporting, but industry leaders are warning that reopening laws like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) could undermine years of investment in sustainability initiatives and create uncertainty for businesses moving forward.
These companies have already committed substantial resources to comply with the existing regulatory framework, and any significant changes could throw off long-term planning. While large corporations are vocal about these challenges, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are also under pressure. The complexity of current reporting standards has left many smaller businesses struggling, with calls for clearer and more concise guidance to ensure that they can meet sustainability obligations without undue strain.
WITH LAW's Writ:
The EU’s decision will have far-reaching implications for both businesses and global climate efforts. Maintaining the integrity of current sustainability laws is crucial to avoid derailing the progress businesses have made toward their long-term environmental and social goals. Additionally, the proposal has raised concerns about its extraterritorial scope and the added compliance burdens, particularly for SMEs. How the EU balances regulatory simplification with robust reporting requirements will likely set the tone for future sustainability laws, affecting not only EU-based businesses but global operations and the broader push for climate action.
Europe's SDG Progress Slows, Raising Concerns for 2030 Goals
The 2025 Europe Sustainable Development Report, released by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, highlights a concerning slowdown in Europe’s progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While Europe has historically been a leader in advancing these global targets, the pace of improvement between 2020 and 2023 was more than twice as slow compared to the period from 2016 to 2019. In some of its most developed regions, SDG performance has even slightly declined.
Finland continues to top the SDG index, excelling in areas like poverty reduction and clean energy. Other high performers include Denmark, Sweden, Austria, and Norway. However, inequality remains a persistent issue in countries such as the Baltic states and parts of Central and Eastern Europe. Additionally, Europe is facing major challenges in agriculture, biodiversity, and climate action, with key issues like zero hunger and sustainable agriculture remaining off-track. Europe's consumption patterns and supply chains, contributing to deforestation and increasing carbon footprints, exacerbate global environmental impacts.
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This slowdown in SDG progress has significant implications for Europe’s future sustainability, as it could undermine the continent’s ability to meet its long-term environmental and social commitments. The lack of progress, especially in environmental sustainability, raises concerns about the adequacy of current regulatory frameworks. As the 2030 deadline approaches, stronger legal accountability, more stringent environmental regulations, and increased adoption of green technologies will be necessary to keep Europe on track toward achieving the SDGs and fulfilling its global climate commitments.
Riyad Bank Sets New Standard for Sustainability in Saudi Arabia’s Banking Sector
Riyad Bank is making significant strides towards a greener future with the launch of its comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. The bank has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and set an ambitious target to reach net-zero emissions for its operations (scope 1 and 2) by 2035. The bank has also established its scope 3 financed emissions baseline and set science-based decarbonization targets for critical sectors such as power and iron & steel.
In addition to its emissions goals, Riyad Bank has pledged to direct SR20 billion into sustainable finance by 2030, positioning itself as a key player in financing projects that promote a sustainable future. The bank also plans to strengthen its partnerships with global sustainability initiatives like the UN Global Compact and the Principles for Responsible Banking, reinforcing its commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
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Riyad Bank's ESG strategy marks a significant milestone in the region's banking sector and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on sustainability. By setting clear decarbonization goals and engaging in transparent ESG practices, the bank is leading the way in helping shape the future of responsible banking in the Kingdom. This proactive approach not only supports the national Vision 2030 objectives but also places the bank ahead of potential regulatory requirements, ensuring long-term value creation and accountability for its stakeholders.
Sona Comstar & The ePlane Co. Partner to Advance eVTOL and Drone Technology
Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd. (Sona Comstar) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ubifly Technologies Pvt Ltd. (The ePlane Co.) to jointly develop powertrains for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft and drones. The partnership will focus on designing and manufacturing key components such as gearboxes, motors, and inverters, which are essential for the development of eVTOLs and drones. This collaboration comes at a time when India’s urban air mobility (UAM) market is set for significant growth, with eVTOL applications expected in air ambulances, cargo transport, and charter flights.
The ePlane Co., a leader in eVTOL technology, has recently received Design Organization Approval (DoA) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), marking it as the first private Indian company to achieve this milestone. This approval highlights India's readiness to support emerging aviation technologies, further strengthening the foundation for the country’s sustainable urban transport goals. The partnership between Sona Comstar and The ePlane Co. could pave the way for domestically developed eVTOL solutions, combining Sona Comstar’s engineering expertise with The ePlane Co.’s cutting-edge technology.
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As the global urban air mobility market is valued at over $1 trillion, driven by the need to reduce congestion and pollution, this collaboration positions both companies to capitalize on the rapid growth in sustainable mobility. The ePlane Co.’s strong patent portfolio ensures a competitive advantage, while the regulatory approval by DGCA signals India’s commitment to supporting next-generation aviation technologies. With increasing interest from investors, this sector presents significant growth opportunities, especially as the demand for innovative, environmentally friendly transportation solutions continues to rise.
Alibaba Enters AI Race with Qwen 2.5-Max, Claims Lead Over DeepSeek-V3
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI lab, has unveiled DeepSeek-R1, a groundbreaking reasoning model that is set to change the landscape of AI by offering cutting-edge capabilities at an affordable price. This new model, which comes in two versions—DeepSeek-R1 and DeepSeek-R1-Zero—has already garnered significant attention for its impressive performance across multiple platforms, including smartphones. Unlike other high-cost models from AI giants like OpenAI and Microsoft, DeepSeek-R1 provides a low-cost alternative for large-scale reinforcement learning, making advanced AI more accessible to a wider range of users.
The DeepSeek-R1 is gaining traction not only for its affordability but also for its versatility. Developers have already used the model to create innovative applications, such as a rotating triangle with a bouncing ball, a PDF-chatting RAG app, and even a conversational search engine. The model's ability to run on smartphones and local devices allows smaller players—developers, educators, and businesses—to integrate AI solutions without needing heavy infrastructure investments. This democratization of AI could shift the balance of power in the industry, previously dominated by a few large corporations.
WITH LAW's Writ:
The release of DeepSeek-R1 as an open-source model marks a pivotal moment in the AI industry. While this may spark legal challenges over intellectual property rights, the move signals a new era of innovation and collaboration. However, DeepSeek may also face heightened regulatory scrutiny, particularly concerning data privacy, security, and the ethical implications of using AI in sensitive areas. If DeepSeek-R1 continues to disrupt the market, it could force established players to rethink their approach to AI development, potentially leading to more affordable, accessible, and transparent AI technologies in the future.
Matternet's Drone Delivery Breakthrough in Saudi Arabia: A New Era for Urban Logistics
Matternet, a U.S.-based drone delivery company, has been granted approval by Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) to launch its M2 drones in the Kingdom. This marks a major step forward for drone-based logistics, with Matternet's M2 drone meeting the stringent airworthiness standards set by GACA and holding FAA type and production certifications, a rare feat for non-military drones. The company will begin offering autonomous, zero-emission drone delivery services in Riyadh, the country’s bustling capital, providing a faster, more cost-efficient option for both businesses and residents.
Matternet's drones will operate through a network of automated stations for landing, unloading, and recharging, designed to fit within the urban landscape of congested areas. This infrastructure will allow for deliveries to a wide range of locations, including apartment complexes. With successful operations already in the U.S. and Europe, Saudi Arabia has become a key strategic hub for Matternet’s Middle Eastern expansion, paving the way for further innovations in drone logistics.
WITH LAW's Writ:
The approval from GACA underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to creating a robust regulatory framework for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), positioning the Kingdom as a leader in drone logistics in the region. This milestone could inspire other companies like Zipline and Wing to accelerate their efforts to meet the required certifications, pushing the industry forward. Beyond convenience, the introduction of zero-emission drones offers a sustainable alternative to traditional delivery methods, contributing to the achievement of SDGs on sustainable cities and clean energy. With these developments, Saudi Arabia is setting the stage for a revolution in urban mobility, and businesses must be prepared to adapt to this dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape.
Chinese EV Makers Challenge EU Tariffs in Court: A Key Trade Dispute for the Green Transition
Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giants BYD, Geely, and SAIC have taken legal action against the European Union’s tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, filing complaints with the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). The EU imposed these tariffs in October following an anti-subsidy investigation, with rates ranging from 17% to 35.3%, in addition to the standard 10% import duty. This legal challenge could drag on for up to 18 months, setting the stage for a protracted battle over the future of trade relations between China and the EU.
The Chinese Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME) has also joined the dispute, seeking a resolution that could prevent further tariff escalation. This legal challenge underscores the broader tensions between China and the EU as Europe aims to protect its domestic EV industry while simultaneously advancing the green transition. The Chinese EV manufacturers argue that the tariffs are unjust, especially since competitors like Tesla were excluded from the anti-subsidy probe.
WITH LAW's Writ:
The key legal question revolves around whether the subsidies received by Chinese EV makers have unfairly harmed the EU’s domestic EV sector. The outcome of this case will be pivotal not only for the affected manufacturers but also for EU-China trade relations. A ruling in favor of the Chinese companies could have significant implications for the global shift to sustainable energy, particularly in the EV sector. This dispute highlights the complexity of balancing market competition and the need for international cooperation in the transition to greener technologies.
SEBI's iSPOT Portal Revolutionizes Reporting in India's Financial Markets
On January 28, 2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) unveiled the Integrated SEBI Portal for Technical Glitches (iSPOT), a web-based platform designed to centralize the reporting process for technical glitches within India’s financial markets. This move marks a significant step towards enhancing transparency and operational efficiency, particularly by enabling Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) to report issues more systematically. iSPOT will officially be in use starting February 3, 2025, for submitting preliminary and final Root Cause Analysis (RCA) reports, replacing the previous email-based system.
The new portal aims to streamline the submission process by improving data quality and traceability. By consolidating all glitch reports in one location, SEBI ensures a more efficient system of tracking issues that could impact market stability. MIIs will also benefit from automated reminders for compliance deadlines, ensuring timely adherence to regulatory requirements. Furthermore, the portal integrates seamlessly with SEBI's existing systems, allowing MIIs to access the portal with their current login credentials.
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This development is an important leap for India’s financial regulatory framework, as it fosters better data management and enhances the traceability of technical issues, ultimately boosting investor confidence. By mandating the amendment of bye-laws and regulations, SEBI ensures that MIIs comply with the new system and strengthens its oversight of market infrastructure. The introduction of iSPOT aligns with SEBI’s focus on improving operational accountability and minimizing disruptions, setting a new benchmark in regulatory compliance and transparency within India’s evolving financial markets.
India's Cookie Consent Crisis: A Wake-Up Call for Businesses!
India’s top websites are failing to comply with the country’s new Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA), according to a recent report by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI). The findings are concerning, as only 6% of the top 50 websites have implemented cookie consent banners, and many of those are ineffective. Users are unable to reject cookies or control the data being collected, which directly violates the DPDPA's requirements for explicit and informed consent. With penalties ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 250 crore for non-compliance, businesses are facing serious risks if they don’t take immediate action.
The DPDPA mandates that consent notices be provided in all 22 official Indian languages, adding complexity to compliance efforts. Drawing lessons from international regulations like the European GDPR and California’s CCPA, Indian companies are now on notice that deceptive design tactics, which push users to accept cookies, are explicitly prohibited. Consent must be free, specific, informed, and revocable, reinforcing user autonomy in the digital space. The regulatory landscape is clear: businesses must overhaul their cookie consent practices or face significant consequences.
WITH LAW's Writ:
As India aligns its privacy laws with global standards, businesses that fail to comply with cookie consent requirements will risk heavy fines and reputational damage. However, those who act early and adopt transparent, user-friendly consent practices can not only avoid penalties but also position themselves as leaders in consumer privacy. In an era of growing digital privacy concerns, demonstrating a commitment to clear and accessible consent practices could become a key competitive advantage. Businesses are urged to invest in technology and stay updated on evolving regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.
DeepSeek-R1: The Affordable AI Revolution Shaking Up the Market
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI lab, has unveiled DeepSeek-R1, a groundbreaking reasoning model that is set to change the landscape of AI by offering cutting-edge capabilities at an affordable price. This new model, which comes in two versions—DeepSeek-R1 and DeepSeek-R1-Zero—has already garnered significant attention for its impressive performance across multiple platforms, including smartphones. Unlike other high-cost models from AI giants like OpenAI and Microsoft, DeepSeek-R1 provides a low-cost alternative for large-scale reinforcement learning, making advanced AI more accessible to a wider range of users.
The DeepSeek-R1 is gaining traction not only for its affordability but also for its versatility. Developers have already used the model to create innovative applications, such as a rotating triangle with a bouncing ball, a PDF-chatting RAG app, and even a conversational search engine. The model's ability to run on smartphones and local devices allows smaller players—developers, educators, and businesses—to integrate AI solutions without needing heavy infrastructure investments. This democratization of AI could shift the balance of power in the industry, previously dominated by a few large corporations.
WITH LAW's Writ:
The release of DeepSeek-R1 as an open-source model marks a pivotal moment in the AI industry. While this may spark legal challenges over intellectual property rights, the move signals a new era of innovation and collaboration. However, DeepSeek may also face heightened regulatory scrutiny, particularly concerning data privacy, security, and the ethical implications of using AI in sensitive areas. If DeepSeek-R1 continues to disrupt the market, it could force established players to rethink their approach to AI development, potentially leading to more affordable, accessible, and transparent AI technologies in the future.
DroneAcharya and AVPL International's Merger: A New Era for India's Drone Tech Industry
iDroneAcharya Aerial Innovations (BSE-listed) has announced a strategic merger with AVPL International (AITMC Ventures Ltd). While the financial details remain undisclosed, this merger is set to significantly reshape India’s drone ecosystem. The collaboration merges DroneAcharya's expertise in cutting-edge research and development with AVPL’s extensive infrastructure and talent-skilling capabilities, aiming to deliver advanced, AI-integrated drone manufacturing and solutions. This merger is poised to make a substantial impact on industries such as agriculture, logistics, infrastructure, and defense, providing enhanced access to next-generation drone technology.
One of the key goals of this merger is to integrate artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and robotics into drone manufacturing, taking India’s capabilities to new heights. The combined force of DroneAcharya’s R&D prowess and AVPL’s scalable operational infrastructure will likely lead to smarter, more efficient solutions that can be applied across critical sectors for India’s economic development. Additionally, the merger aims to strengthen India’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) ecosystem, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth in drone technology.
WITH LAW's Writ:
The merger signals India’s ambition to become a global leader in the drone tech industry. By combining their strengths, DroneAcharya and AVPL International are positioning themselves to drive innovation and compete with global players. However, as the industry grows, the companies will need to safeguard intellectual property and adapt to evolving regulatory frameworks, particularly in areas of data privacy and defense. This merger could also lead to more robust regulations governing the integration and safety of drones, ensuring a smooth, scalable future for drone technology in India.
Closing Insights
As we reflect on the stories shaping our world, it's clear that 2025 is a year of transformative shifts—whether driven by technological innovation, geopolitical developments, or the urgent calls for sustainability. From AI advancements pushing boundaries in both business and everyday life to the evolving landscape of global trade, there’s no shortage of change on the horizon. The push for sustainability, particularly in industries like banking, transportation, and tech, is intensifying, reflecting an undeniable urgency for more responsible and forward-thinking approaches. Yet, with progress comes challenges: the complex balancing act of economic growth, climate action, and technological development demands cooperation across borders and industries. While certain trends may seem daunting—like the challenges of meeting SDG targets or navigating new trade disputes—they also present opportunities for bold action, innovation, and leadership. As we close this edition, it’s important to remember that the decisions we make today, whether in policy, business strategy, or technological development, will lay the foundation for the world we’ll inherit tomorrow. The coming months promise more twists and turns, but one thing is certain: the future is being written right now, and we all have a role to play. Stay engaged, stay informed, and let’s continue to shape the world together.
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