Question 1
Multiple ChoiceWhich of the following actions is most likely permitted under Standard I(C), Misrepresentation?
Explanation
Standard I(C) allows the use of factual information from recognized public sources, such as central banks or government agencies, without attribution if the data is widely disseminated. However, using others’ analysis or forecasts without proper attribution would be a violation.
Question 2
Multiple ChoiceWhich of the following actions most likely violates Standard I(D) Misconduct?
Explanation
Standard I(D) prohibits dishonesty, fraud, or deceit that could reflect poorly on a member’s integrity or professional competence. Misrepresenting qualifications or responsibilities on a résumé is considered deceptive and a clear violation. Personal legal disputes not involving fraud or dishonesty typically do not constitute a violation.
Question 3
Multiple ChoiceAn investment advisor volunteers to manage the finances of a local theater group in exchange for free season tickets. While organizing their records, he discovers proprietary budgeting software created by a former volunteer. He copies the software to use with his private clients. This action is:
Explanation
Using proprietary material developed for an organization—without obtaining permission—is dishonest and violates Standard I(D). The origin of the software (employee or volunteer) does not excuse the misappropriation. Misconduct includes any behavior that reflects poorly on a member’s integrity or ethical standards.
Question 4
Multiple ChoiceWhich of the following actions least likely violates Standard I(D), Misconduct? Samuel Green, CFA:
Explanation
Standard I(D) focuses on actions involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or conduct that reflects poorly on professional integrity. Peaceful civil disobedience generally does not constitute a violation, especially when unrelated to professional responsibilities.
Question 5
Multiple ChoiceBased on CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct, which of the following statements is a violation of Standard I(C), Misrepresentation?
Explanation
Standard I(C) prohibits any misrepresentation relating to qualifications or professional background. Falsely claiming to have a degree is a clear violation. Statements about typical investment behavior or general tax characteristics, when accurate, are not violations.
Question 6
Multiple ChoiceWhen preparing an investment research report, which of the following is the analyst least likely required to cite?
Explanation
Standard I(C) requires proper attribution when using work that is not the analyst’s own, particularly if developed within the firm. However, widely disseminated factual data from recognized public sources, such as IMF forecasts, do not require formal citation.
Question 7
Multiple ChoiceA CFA charterholder is convicted of filing false insurance claims and receives a suspended sentence. Does this constitute a violation of Standard I(D), Misconduct?
Explanation
Standard I(D) prohibits conduct that reflects adversely on the member’s integrity, even outside the professional sphere. Filing false insurance claims involves deception and is considered dishonest behavior, thus violating the Standard regardless of whether it resulted in jail time or was directly related to the investment profession.
Question 8
Multiple ChoiceA CFA charterholder is reviewing candidates for an internship program and requests references to assess their work ethic and integrity. By doing so, the charterholder has:
Explanation
Standard I(D) encourages diligence in evaluating the integrity and character of potential employees to prevent future misconduct. Requesting references is an appropriate and compliant action that helps uphold the integrity of the profession.
Question 9
Multiple ChoiceA CFA charterholder regularly consumes alcohol during lunch breaks and returns to work impaired. This conduct is:
Explanation
Standard I(D) addresses conduct that reflects poorly on a member's integrity or professional competence. Reporting to work while impaired, even if investment decisions are not immediately affected, undermines professional standards and violates this Standard.
Question 10
Multiple ChoiceWhich of the following is permissible under Standard I(C), Misrepresentation?
Explanation
Standard I(C) permits the use of widely available factual information from recognized public sources, such as government agencies, without requiring explicit citation. However, failure to attribute forecasts, opinions, or third-party work that is not public domain is a violation.