By far the most significant recent transaction from a value perspective is Google's acquisition of Motorola Mobility Holdings Inc for $12.5 billion, which was motivated on the basis of Google gaining access to Motorola's portfolio of patents.

When it comes to divorce, the law governing the Government Employee Pension Fund ("GEPF") has been ruled unconstitutional by the Western Cape High Court.

South Africa is one of the highest alcohol consuming countries in the world. Not surprisingly, therefore, it has an alarming number of fatalities, and serious injury to individuals and property caused by drunk drivers.

We further expect Business to be vocal about a number of amendments that will affect their cost structures and their willingness to employ. What is important for employers is it is not only further regulation for the Temporary Employment Services industry but further regulation for all forms of a-typical employment. 

Last October the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement was tabled against the backdrop of a somewhat optimistic economic outlook. South Africa's GDP was expected to increase at 3.1% for 2011 and 3.4% for 2012.

Directors of South African businesses need to ensure that they are fully compliant with the latest record keeping regulations in terms of the new Companies Act, in order to avoid potential legal feels and in some cases, imprisonment and business closure

Internationally, corruption in business is coming under increasing scrutiny, particularly in regard to corrupt payments made to government officials in order to gain trade advantages. No longer can the greasing of palms be regarded as an acceptable (or risk-free) way of growing a business.

The decision in Royal British Bank v Turquand was handed down in the English courts over 150 years ago, but it remains a cornerstone of company law.

The Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has introduced new rules of arbitration which will have a far-reaching impact on the resolution of international business disputes.

The Tax Administration Bill 11 of 2011 may face constitutional challenges should it be promulgated in its current form.The Bill gives SARS much wider powers, impacts on taxpayers’ rights andcontains provisions that could affect taxpayers’ rights to hold a passport, to travel and to trade.