The Origins and Future of Sony/ATV

Michael Jackson’s share of Sony/ATV is probably the most notable asset in Jackson’s estate.  According to Julie Creswell, Turning Music Into Dollars at Sony/ATV, NY Times, Aug. 22, 2009,

Sony/ATV Music Publishing is a joint venture created in 1995 between the Sony Corporation and trusts formed by the late pop giant Michael Jackson.

…

While Sony executives and lawyers for Mr. Jackson’s estate say they see no changes afoot, the structure of the partnership would be altered if the estate put its stake on the block.

Sony would have first-refusal rights if that happens, and company executives say they would be interested in increasing their holdings.

Special thanks to Joel Dobris (Professor of Law, UC Davis School of Law) for bringing this article to my attention.