Spanish eyes focus on Obama

A GROUP of Spaniards is set to win the European trademark rights to a word with instant global recognition — OBAMA.

EU trademark rules once stopped opportunists turning the names of heads of state and other prominent figures and celebrities into branding gold, but now, unless the use of an instantly identifiable name is deemed to be an act of deception, little else prevents the firstcomer grabbing the rights.

The Spaniards are said to be an economist, a PR professional, a textiles magnate and a lawyer.