Intangible assets, such as brands, patents and software, are increasingly important to companies' market value. However, the lack of efficient management of these assets can represent major challenges and financial losses.
Challenges of inadequate management:
- Loss of value and competitiveness: Intangible assets, such as a recognized brand, lose value if they are not continuously monitored and protected.
- Difficulty of measurement: Assets such as patents, exclusive formulas or corporate reputation are subjective and often difficult to measure accurately.
- Financial and legal risks: Failure to protect intellectual property can result in lawsuits, loss of patents and, consequently, a significant drop in the company's valuation.
- How much is the Coca-Cola formula worth? Coca-Cola's secret recipe is one of the world's most valuable intangible assets, exemplifying the power of well-protected intellectual property.
- Volvo's reputation: The trust that consumers place in Volvo, especially in relation to safety, is a crucial intangible asset that generates long-term value.
- Microsoft licenses: The example of Microsoft, which constantly updates its software licenses to add value, shows how proper maintenance can increase profitability and market impact.
Real difficulties for companies:
- Subjectivity and Uncertainty: The valuation of intangible assets often depends on subjective factors, such as brand perception or employee knowledge, making it difficult to measure them objectively.
- Technological changes: Assets such as patents and technologies are susceptible to rapid outdating, requiring agile and proactive management. For example, a technology can lose value if another disruptive innovation enters the market.
- Market volatility: Market volatility can affect the value of brands and patents, especially in sectors such as technology and health, where innovations emerge all the time.
Consequences of management failures:
- Accelerated depreciation: If a company does not update or protect its intangible assets, such as software or patents, these can quickly lose value, jeopardizing long-term sustainability.
- Loss of investment opportunities: The absence of a correct valuation can make it difficult to use these assets as collateral for loans or to attract investors.
- Periodic valuations: Conducting constant valuations of intangible assets helps to ensure that they are properly reflected in the balance sheet and that their value is not being underestimated.
- Protecting intellectual property: Maintaining patent and trademark protection, as well as proper software licensing, is vital to mitigating risks and ensuring the longevity of these assets.
With over 25 years' experience, we are specialists in helping companies manage their intangible assets efficiently. We offer complete solutions for evaluating, protecting and monitoring these resources, ensuring that your business extracts maximum value from them. Contact us now and find out how we can transform your asset management!
