Deni Elliott , Ethics Officer
	Jeff Cable , Ethics Educator

One of the largest brokerage houses in the United States, will pay $8 million dollars to settle fines levied by the Securities and Exchange Commission. These penalties were handed down as the result of an investigation into inappropriate gifts accepted by traders from the firm's clients.

Gifts included Super Bowl tickets, private-jet travel, free tickets to concerts, theater and sporting events, and at least one bachelor party worth $160,000 —all paid for by clients.

Sometimes MWD employees ask, “How are we doing ethically? How does MWD compare to other companies”? MWD employees are performing well.

One may ask then, what makes MWD different, what keeps us from the scandals plaguing some of the large private companies.

The main difference has to do with our employees and their willingness to bring issues of concern. This input helps create positive communication between coworkers and managers. This fosters improved decision making and supports a work environment where small issues are addressed preemptively, before they grow into larger issues.

While some private sector companies have their challenges, government agencies face challenges too. Some of these may be found in “The Encyclopedia of Ethical Failure,” posted by the General Counsel, Standards of Conduct Office, at the Department of Defense.

Have a few examples of your own? Contact the Ethics Office and let us know.