The Integrity List

Here are some actions you can take, inspired by real-world ideas from CFA^® charterholders and members.

• Commit to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.
• Name and shame unethical behavior.
• Strive for a conflict-free business model.
• Act with integrity 24/7 – not just at the office.
• Act with fairness and prudence with every decision.
• Adhere to high standards even if they are not required in your country.
• Take responsibility for the actions of your team.
• Mentor future investment industry professionals.
• Adopt the Global Investment Performance Standards.
• Refuse to associate with anyone who takes advantage of clients.
• Become a member of CFA Institute and sign the required annual ethics statement.

• Never overlook unethical behavior because you're better served by ignorance.
• Vocally demand that your firm does what is right for clients.
• Encourage young professionals to have the courage to disagree.
• Lead by example with your firm and colleagues.
• Write articles and speak publicly about ethics.
• Promote the concept of earning money rather than making money.
• Create an ethical work culture that allows constructive criticism.
• Bring an ethical dimension to discussions of business strategy.
• Remind junior associates that reputations are hard earned and easily lost.
• Use social media to comment about the values you uphold.
• Act as an expert resource for journalists.

• Place the client's interests before your own.
• Help clients focus on risk as much as they do on performance.
• Keep client fees fair.
• Present analysis based on facts and client needs.
• Always be honest with clients.
• Never engage in misleading sales promotions.
• Recommend companies with fair practices and good corporate governance.
• Tip the balance between competing interests in favor of clients.
• Maintain regular contact with clients.
• Listen to clients' concerns and fears.

• Recommend products with transparent payoffs, costs, and risks.
• Be transparent with clients when something goes wrong.
• Actively disclose all compensation arrangements to clients.
• Outline exactly how you are managing a client's funds.
• Disseminate transparent, accurate, and timely information.
• Be clear about situational influences in your environment.
• Disclose information in ways even novice investors can understand.
• Openly share bad news with all who are affected.

• Require training on ethical decision-making for yourself and your firm.
• Disclose your educational achievements and how you improve professional competence.
• Base investment recommendations on strong analysis.

• Advocate for stronger regulations that protect investors.
• Elevate the importance of integrity in the hiring process.
• Adopt the CFA Institute Asset Manager Code.
• Bring to justice those who take part in irresponsible and illegal activities.
• Advocate for technology that makes the industry more transparent.
• Engage and build relationships with local regulators and policy makers.
• Serve on committees that advocate for regulatory reform.