Ethics, Professional Conduct, and Anti-Corruption
Ethical frameworks and duties
Candidates must understand integrity, objectivity, confidentiality, competence and professional behaviour as professional obligations. Know how ethical dilemmas are resolved: identify the issue, gather facts, consider stakeholders and rules, consult, decide, and document. Understand whistleblowing protections and the importance of a speak-up culture.
Anti-bribery and corruption
Know the elements of bribery offences: offering, promising, giving, requesting or accepting an advantage to induce improper performance. Understand facilitation payments, gifts and hospitality thresholds, and third-party/intermediary risk. A frequent trap is assuming a small payment is acceptable because it is customary - most modern regimes do not permit a custom defence. Another trap is overlooking that liability can attach to a company for failing to prevent bribery by associated persons.
Conflicts and confidentiality
Distinguish a conflict of interest from a conflict of duty, and know that confidentiality survives the end of an engagement. Questions often test whether a professional should withdraw rather than merely disclose.
Rule of thumb - the front-page test
If the decision would be uncomfortable to read on the front page of a newspaper, it warrants escalation and documentation. When rules are silent, apply the stricter standard and seek guidance rather than proceed alone.