Standard I (D) Professionalism - Misconduct

The CFA members and candidates should not engage in any kind of misconduct, such as fraud, dishonesty or deceit, or any such act that adversely reflects upon their professional competence.

This standard covers the conduct that may not be illegal, but could adversely affect a member’s ability to perform his duties. For example, being drunk at work is in violation of the standard. Similarly, conviction of a crime involving fraud is a violation of Standard I (D). However, if a member is convicted of a misdemeanour involving civil disobedience in support of one’s personal beliefs, it is not a violation of the Standard. This is because the Standards do not focus on personal conduct as long as the conduct does not reflect poorly on one’s professional reputation, integrity, or competence.