Patent exchange to launch next year

CNN Money reports that a Chicago-based patent exchange is set to launch in February. The exchange will function like a stock exchange by selling and promoting shares of patent licenses.

This is a unique approach to selling intellectual property. Traditionally, patent licensing deals happened behind closed doors; this exchange will publish prices on its website.

According to the article, experts seem to predict that the exchange will either represent a breakthrough in valuing intellectual property or it will result in an uncontrollable tidal wave of litigation. Either way, it will be interesting to watch it develop.