Universal Music Group (UMG) has filed a lawsuit against investment platform OpenDeal (doing business as Republic) over alleged trademark infringement of UMG's Republic Records marks following Republic's expansion into music investments.

The lawsuit, filed in New York federal court, comes after Republic announced its entry into music investments in October. UMG promptly sent a cease-and-desist letter requesting Republic to operate under a different name for music-related services. Despite initial settlement discussions throughout October, Republic proceeded with launching its music investment service on November 4th.

The platform's first offering was a stake in "Mona Lisa," a track by Lil Pump featuring Soulja Boy, which reached its $500,000 maximum investment within two hours. A KSHMR release is planned next.

UMG's key complaints include:

• Republic's alleged "wanton effort to usurp" the label's name and trademarks
• Marketing to the same consumer base as Republic Records
• Using the marks for typical record label services including sound recordings, merchandise, event tickets, and royalty payments
• Creating documented instances of confusion in the industry

UMG clarified it doesn't object to Republic's use of the name for non-music investment services but seeks to prevent its use in music-related activities. The lawsuit requests preliminary and permanent injunctions against Republic's use of the mark for music-related services, plus damages for alleged infringement.

Notable confusion examples include:

• Media outlets miscategorizing articles about the investment platform
• A mix-up during a blockchain/cryptocurrency meeting where Republic Records was mistakenly credited for the "Lil Pump initiative"

The case is currently pending in federal court under docket number 1:21-cv-09358.

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