What is the proper conduct for a CFA member dealing with a conflict of interest?

Disclosing a conflict of interest proactively is crucial in maintaining transparency and trust between a CFA member and their clients or stakeholders. When a CFA member encounters a situation where their personal interests or relationships may influence their professional decisions, it is essential to bring this to the attention of clients upfront. This proactive disclosure allows clients to make informed decisions and mitigates any potential harm that could arise from perceived or actual conflicts.

The CFA Institute emphasizes integrity and ethical behavior, and disclosing conflicts serves to uphold these standards. It demonstrates a commitment to acting in the best interests of clients, fostering a culture of honesty and accountability within the profession.

In contrast, concealing a conflict until required to disclose, managing it internally without disclosure, or waiting for clients to inquire compromises the ethical obligations of the CFA member and can lead to a breakdown of trust, potential regulatory issues, and reputational damage. Such approaches ignore the primary responsibility of the CFA member to prioritize client interests above personal gains.